Biology - Neuroscience Concentration

Biology 鈥� Neuroscience Concentration

Learn the Science of the Brain

Unlock the mysteries of the mind.

Are you fascinated by the brain and driven to understand how it works? The neuroscience concentration at 51黑料网 blends biology, psychology, and clinical science to equip students with the knowledge and experience to explore the inner workings of the human mind.

The neuroscience concentration is part of the Biology, Environmental Science, and Sustainability Department at 51黑料网. It is designed to prepare students for careers and graduate study at the intersection of biology, psychology, and clinical science. The program offers a comprehensive approach to brain science 鈥� from cellular processes and molecular biology to cognitive behavior and mental health 鈥� bridging disciplines that are increasingly essential in research, healthcare, and human services.

Whether you envision yourself in research, healthcare, or mental health services, the neuroscience concentration provides a rigorous foundation in brain science with a practical, hands-on approach. Through laboratory experiences, coursework, and a psychiatry-focused curriculum developed with input from industry leaders, you鈥檒l be prepared to make an impact in today鈥檚 most critical scientific and medical fields.

Baccalaureate Programs (B.S.)

Bachelor of Science in Biology 鈥� Neuroscience Concentration

The neuroscience concentration is a specialization within the B.S. in Biology. Requirements consist of 44 semester hours, including core biology courses plus the 4 neuroscience concentration courses. Additional requirements include a minor in chemistry (or the equivalent chemistry sequence) and specified courses in physics, calculus, statistics, and psychology.

The neuroscience concentration is offered as a hybrid degree through the Lower Cost Models for Independent Colleges Consortium (LCMC), combining the flexibility of online learning with the mentorship and community of 51黑料网鈥檚 on-campus experience.

View the Course Catalog

Courses

What We Offer

Biology Core Courses

(required for all Biology B.S. specializations)

Principles of Biology I & II
Genetics
Biology Forum
Cell and Molecular Biology
Evolution
Current Topics in Biology
Senior Seminar

Neuroscience Concentration Courses

Introduction to Neuroscience
Biological Basis of Perception and Movement
Cognitive Neuroscience
Clinical Neuropathology

Biology Electives

(8 credit hours chosen from)

Functional Histology
Introduction to Neuroscience (if not already used as a concentration course)
Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
Developmental Biology
Microbiology

Additional Required Courses

General Chemistry I, II, III & IV (or Chemistry minor)
Physics I & II
Calculus
Statistics
Introduction to Psychology
Psychopathology (recommended)
Cognitive Psychology (recommended)

View the Course Catalog

Campus Facilities

Neuroscience students attend core biology courses in the Eshleman Science Center, which features five teaching laboratories, a cell and molecular biology lab with professional-grade instrumentation, the Allen Biotechnology Education Lab with a nanopore DNA sequencer, and the S. Benton Talbott Seminar Room. The hybrid format of the neuroscience concentration courses combines online flexibility with access to 51黑料网鈥檚 campus resources, faculty mentorship, and student community.

Curriculum Alignment

The neuroscience concentration curriculum is aligned with the National Neuroscience Curriculum Initiative (NNCI), a framework developed by leading neuroscientists and educators to ensure students receive training that reflects the current state of the field. This alignment means 51黑料网 neuroscience graduates arrive at graduate programs and employers with a credential that鈥檚 recognized and respected.

Careers in Biology and Neuroscience

Neuroscience prepares graduates for careers in a wide array of fields, including scientific research, healthcare, mental health services, education, and science communication. Whether you鈥檙e a future clinician, compassionate healer, or driven researcher, the neuroscience concentration at 51黑料网 provides a foundation to change lives.

While for some roles, graduate-level education or licensure may be required, career paths for neuroscience graduates can include:

Laboratory Technician
Health Educator
Technical Writer
Clinical Research Coordinator
Neuropsychologist
Research Scientist

Get Your Career Path Started

Graduate and Professional School Pathways

M.S. or Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, or Biology
Medical School (M.D. or D.O.)
Doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D. or Ph.D.)
Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.)
M.S. in Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, or Neuropharmacology
Physician Assistant (M.S. or D.M.S.)
Occupational Therapy (M.S. or O.T.D.)

Internship Opportunities

51黑料网 Biology and Neuroscience students have access to internship opportunities with organizations headquartered in Elkins and the surrounding area, including Davis Medical Center, the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and The Nature Conservancy.

Learn more about internship programs

Graduate and Professional School Pathways

Choose from one of the following pathways:

Medical School (M.D. or D.O.)
Pharmacy School (Pharm.D.)
Dental School (D.D.S. or D.M.D.)
Veterinary School (D.V.M.)
Graduate school in Biology, Ecology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry, or related fields
Physical Therapy (D.P.T.)

Why Biology and Neuroscience at D&E

Small class sizes enable inspiring faculty members to get to know your career goals personally and provide individualized attention. Coursework covers current and relevant principles from molecular neuroscience and genetics to cognitive behavior and clinical neuropathology. It prepares you for success in graduate study and careers in the brain sciences.

The hybrid course format gives you real flexibility, an especially powerful combination for students balancing coursework with other commitments. 51黑料网鈥檚 articulation agreements with the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and the Marshall University School of Physical Therapy offer neuroscience students direct, expedited pathways to professional careers. State-of-the-art facilities give you access to professional-grade tools that prepare you for graduate and professional school coursework. Internship and independent study opportunities provide real-world experience that amplifies classroom learning.

Connect with Admissions Today!

51黑料网

Biology 鈥� Neuroscience Concentration

Unlock the mysteries of the mind.

Baccalaureate Programs (B.S.)

Bachelor of Science in Biology 鈥� Neuroscience Concentration

Courses

What We Offer

Campus Facilities

Curriculum Alignment

Careers in Biology and Neuroscience

Graduate and Professional School Pathways

Internship Opportunities

Graduate and Professional School Pathways

Department Directory

Shawn Stover

Professor, Biology

Why Biology and Neuroscience at D&E

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