Program Overview

Program Overview

PSYCHIAT902 is a university program that explores the basic science of sleep and consciousness. The program is worth 2 credits and delves into the mysteries of sleep, its role in synaptic homeostasis, learning and memory, cardiovascular and metabolic health, and its effects on the brain and body.

Program Description

The program examines the sleeping brain, brain structures involved in wake and sleep, sleep pressure, sleep deprivation, and sleep disorders such as narcolepsy. It also covers methods for studying sleep in genetic models, electron microscopy, and theoretical models. Additionally, the program discusses the importance of sleep for individual and societal well-being, including the negative consequences of sleep deprivation.

Learning Outcomes

The program aims to achieve the following learning outcomes:

• Explain definitions used for sleep and wake
• Detail the brain structures and systems involved in the control of sleep and wake
• Explain recent evidence linking sleep, memory, and synaptic plasticity
• Identify animal models used to study sleep
• Explain molecular and genetic approaches to the study of sleep
• Explain how sleep affects cardiovascular, metabolic, and cognitive functions
• Explain the importance of sleep for the individual and society, including negative consequences of sleep deprivation and some sleep disorders
• Detail the brain structures crucial to support consciousness
• Describe how dreaming research can advance consciousness research
• Explain theoretical approaches to study consciousness and how they can lead to new ways of assessing consciousness in healthy and patient populations
• Present recent studies on sleep and consciousness research
• Describe how to design a sleep/dreaming/consciousness experiment and recognize possible confounding factors

Program Details

• Course designation: Grad 50% - Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement
• Repeatable for credit: No
• Last taught: Fall 2022
• Audience: Graduate
• Requisites: Graduate/professional standing

Research Areas

The program covers various research areas, including:

• Sleep and wake regulation
• Brain structures and systems involved in sleep and wake
• Sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy
• Genetic models for studying sleep
• Electron microscopy and theoretical models for assessing sleep effects
• Consciousness research and its relationship to sleep and dreaming

Conclusion

The PSYCHIAT902 program provides a comprehensive exploration of the basic science of sleep and consciousness, covering various aspects of sleep regulation, brain structures, and research methods. The program is designed for graduate students and aims to achieve specific learning outcomes, making it a valuable opportunity for those interested in this field of study.