Program Overview

Neuroscience Training Program (NTP)

The Neuroscience Training Program (NTP) at the University of WisconsinMadison offers a comprehensive curriculum in neuroscience, covering various aspects of the field. The program includes a range of courses that provide students with a deep understanding of the molecular basis of electrical activity in neurons, the anatomy and physiology of the mammalian nervous system, and the principles of computational neuroscience.

Course Offerings

• NTP/NEURODPT 610 Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience: This 4-credit course explores the molecular basis of electrical activity in neurons, including voltage-sensitive currents, molecular biology of neuronal receptors, synaptic transmission, and sensory transduction.
• NTP/NEURODPT/PSYCH 611 Systems Neuroscience: This 4-credit course introduces students to the anatomy and physiology of the mammalian nervous system, covering topics such as neuroanatomy, sensory and motor systems, and higher-order functions.
• NTP/NEURODPT 640 Computational Neuroscience: From Single Cells to Whole Brain Models: This 3-credit course delves into the theory and application of computational neuroscience methods, including biophysical properties of neurons and synapses, neural plasticity, and whole-brain analysis and modeling.
• NTP 660 Neuroscience & Public Policy Seminar: This 1-2 credit course examines the interaction between science and public policy, covering topics such as the impact of science on policy and society, and the role of policy in shaping scientific research.
• NTP 666 Neuroscience of Consciousness and Its Disorders: This 3-credit course explores contemporary strategies for studying consciousness, including the neural correlates of consciousness, alterations during sleep and anesthesia, and theoretical approaches to understanding consciousness.
• NTP 675 Special Topics: This 1-3 credit course allows students to engage with advanced topics in neuroscience, applying theories, concepts, and methods to current research questions.
• NTP 677 Basic Sleep Mechanisms and Sleep Disorders: From Neurobiology to Sleep Medicine: This 3-credit course focuses on the neurobiology of sleep, including the brain structures involved in controlling wake and sleep, circadian and homeostatic regulation, and sleep disorders.
• NTP 700 Professional Development for Biomedical Graduate Students: This 1-credit course provides graduate students with essential skills and knowledge for success in science, including mentorship, grant writing, and research collaboration.
• NTP 701 Experimental Design and Statistical Methodology: This 1-credit course applies the scientific method and experimental design to neuroscience research, covering best practices for robust and unbiased approaches.
• NTP 900 Neuroscience Seminar: Current Topics in Neurobiology: This 1-credit course offers a critical review of selected topics in neurobiology, presenting neuroscience research in a seminar setting and fostering critical analysis and discussion.
• NTP 990 Research and Thesis: This 1-12 credit course allows graduate students to conduct independent research, demonstrating a broad understanding of neuroscience principles and the ability to critically address research challenges.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing the Neuroscience Training Program, students will be able to:

• Identify the major anatomical parts of a neuron and summarize their functions
• Describe the organization and structure of the mammalian nervous system
• Explain the basic functioning of a neuron in biophysical terms
• Demonstrate technical familiarity in evaluating the statistical and information theoretical properties of neuronal activity
• Apply, analyze, or evaluate advanced theories, concepts, or methods in neuroscience and neurobiology
• Conduct independent research using a variety of approaches
• Exhibit a broad understanding of general neuroscience principles
• Collaborate with other investigators within or outside the thesis lab

Program Requirements

The program requires students to complete a series of courses, including foundational courses in cellular and molecular neuroscience, systems neuroscience, and computational neuroscience. Additional courses may be taken to fulfill specific interests or requirements.

Research Areas

The Neuroscience Training Program at the University of WisconsinMadison covers a wide range of research areas, including:

• Cellular and molecular neuroscience
• Systems neuroscience
• Computational neuroscience
• Neuroscience of consciousness and its disorders
• Sleep mechanisms and sleep disorders
• Neurobiology of disease

Admission Criteria

Admission to the Neuroscience Training Program is competitive and based on academic performance, research experience, and letters of recommendation. Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the University of WisconsinMadison Graduate School.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for the Neuroscience Training Program vary depending on the student's residency status and the number of credits taken. For more information, please consult the University of WisconsinMadison Graduate School website.