Program Overview

Introduction to the Neuroscience Major

The Princeton Neuroscience Institute offers the Neuroscience Major for Princeton University undergraduates with a strong interest in pursuing an in-depth study of the brain. Neuroscience is a broad interdisciplinary field requiring rigorous preparation in basic science. Students in this discipline are expected to understand the basic principles and approaches of modern neuroscience. The major provides an opportunity for serious study of molecular, cellular, developmental, and systems neuroscience as it interfaces with cognitive and behavioral research.

Declaring the Neuroscience Major

To declare Neuroscience as their major, A.B. sophomores preparing to enter the junior year must do so prior to selecting courses for the fall semester. For detailed instructions on how to declare a major, students should consult with the Director of Undergraduate Studies, Professor Elizabeth Gould. Topics for discussion include future courses and their timing, as well as study abroad opportunities.

Course of Study

The recommended plan of study for the Neuroscience Major includes completing NEU 201, NEU 202, and MAT 103 by the Spring of the sophomore year. Students must take NEU 201 or NEU 202 in order to enroll in the major. In the junior year, students should take NEU 314 (Fall) and NEU 350 (Spring). All other courses can be taken anytime during the student's time at Princeton.

Double Counting Courses

NEU will allow individual courses to fulfill both NEU requirements and certificate requirements, providing it is permissible to the certificate program. Students seeking to obtain a certificate in another unit should check with those requirements.

Advice and Approval

The Director of Undergraduate Studies, Professor Elizabeth Gould, provides advice and approval for declaring the NEU major and getting the list of courses approved.

Study Abroad Opportunities

Studying abroad can be a wonderful opportunity for Neuroscience concentrators. The Office of International Programs provides a document containing links to some places that have neuroscience programs and their course offerings. Some of these courses may be used to fulfill major elective requirements. Students should always check with the NEU Director of Undergraduate Studies before making any course selections.

Research Abroad

It is unlikely that research conducted abroad can be used as senior thesis work. However, it would have to be a significant project, and the student would have to find an interested co-advisor on the PNI faculty to help guide them through their work.

Prerequisites and Course Replacement

As long as a student has completed one NEU course, it is possible to declare the NEU major even if they have not taken all the prerequisites. However, students cannot use a course from another department to replace a NEU course, except maybe for cognate electives. Students should communicate with the Director of Undergraduate Studies regarding these matters.

Placement and Credit

Students can place out of the math or physics requirements, but the decision is made by the Math or Physics departments. The Neuroscience Institute follows their placement decisions. Students should follow up with their Residential College Dean and the department to facilitate their placement for these courses. Advance placement (AP) credit must be listed in TigerHub.

Program Details

• The Neuroscience Major provides a comprehensive study of the brain and its functions.
• Students are expected to understand the basic principles and approaches of modern neuroscience.
• The major includes a combination of courses and interdisciplinary research.
• Students who complete the neuroscience major will be highly qualified to pursue graduate work at the best neuroscience, psychology, or biology graduate programs.
• The major also provides a background for students to enter medical or veterinary school.
• The program includes a range of research areas, such as molecular, cellular, developmental, and systems neuroscience.
• Students can participate in study abroad opportunities and conduct research abroad, with the approval of the Director of Undergraduate Studies.