Course Information
Below are the approved courses offered by the Department of Neuroscience, Cognition and Behavior. Not all courses offered below will be available every semester. Make sure to check course offerings on the registration portal for each upcoming semester.
Course Descriptions
NCB 102
Your Brain: An Owner's Manual
Units: 3
This course is designed to be an introduction to neuroscience. We will explore basic brain anatomy at both the cellular/molecular and systems level. We will also learn about basic brain function, including neural signaling and neurotransmitter systems.
NCB 150
Introduction to Cognition and Behavior
Units: 3
Cognition is the study of the mind — the goal is to identify the processes that help us to acquire, retain, and use knowledge to guide behavior. This course will help you understand more about how we perceive, attend to, represent, and understand the world around us; how we communicate with one another; and how we reason and make decisions on a daily basis. Although mainly focused on the psychological and neuroscience approaches to studying cognition, students in this course will also be exposed to a variety of interdisciplinary perspectives and methods for studying the mind.
NCB 201
Introduction to Neuroscience
Units: 3
This course will explore the scientific study of the biological basis of the nervous system and behavior. We will cover evolutionary, genetic, neural, and hormonal processes, moving from communication between cells to communication between humans. Topics will include anatomy and physiology of the nervous and sensory systems, and the biological basis of processes such as sexual differentiation, hunger, circadian rhythms and learning and memory. Both basic and applied issues will be addressed. Through the study of these processes, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves and reasons for our experiences and behaviors. Students may not receive credit for taking both NCB 201 and PSYC 342.
NCB 210
Statistics
Units: 3
This course will provide an introduction to the fundamentals of experimental design and quantitative analysis of data in the fields of neuroscience, cognition, and behavior. Students will learn statistical concepts and their connection and application to research methods. The course will cover descriptive and inferential statistics, the basics of samples and populations, and some common statistical test procedures, including t-tests, ANOVA, linear regression, correlation, and non-parametric statistics. Students will learn the basics of using R to analyze data. This is a required course for all Neuroscience majors and Cognition & Behavior majors. This course satisfies the Quantitative Reasoning area of the Core Curriculum.
NCB 294
Special Topics in Neuroscience
Units: 0.5 TO 4
The purpose of this course is to provide the beginning undergraduate student with an opportunity to explore a variety of contemporary topics in neuroscience. These will be in-depth investigations on subjects of special interest to the instructor. Course may be repeated with different topics. Prerequisites vary with topic and/or instructor.
NCB 300
Behavioral Research Methods
Units: 3
The goal of this course is to introduce students to the basic methods involved in doing research in any field of neuroscience, cognition and behavior. In addition to learning about various research designs and techniques used to test hypotheses, students will learn to use search strategies and sources of information effectively and ethically to complete a literature review on a topic of interest within neuroscience, cognition and behavior that critically evaluates the state of knowledge on that topic. Concurrent registration in NCB 300L is required. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101, and NCB 201 (can be taken concurrently), and NCB 210.
NCB 300L
Behavioral Research Methods Lab
Units: 1
The goal of this course is to give students hands-on experience with the basic methods involved in doing research in any field of neuroscience, cognition and behavior. Students will learn to develop and support credible hypotheses and conclusions using various types of research designs for both animal and human research. Concurrent registration in NCB 300 is required unless credit for NCB 300 has been earned previously. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101, and NCB 201 (can be taken concurrently), and NCB 210.
NCB 305
Neurobiology
Units: 3
This course will discuss fundamental concepts in neuroscience, including the structure and function of the nervous system in humans and animals, brain cell biology, the biophysics of membrane potential, action potential generation and propagation, cell signaling, neurotransmitter systems, and neural circuits. Prerequisites: ((NCB 201 with a C- or higher) OR (PSYC 342 with a C- or higher)) and ((BIOL 242 with a C- or higher) and BIOL 242L) OR ((BIOL 240 with a C- or higher) and BIOL 240L)
NCB 310
Systems Neuroscience
Units: 3
This course will explore the biological basis of human and animal behavior, with a focus on neural structures and function. Topics will include neural cell physiology, neurotransmitters and receptors, the development of the nervous system, sensory and motor systems, and the biological bases of learning and memory. Prerequisites: (NCB 305 with a C- or higher) and (BIOL 242 with a C- or higher) and BIOL 242L and (BIOL 240 with a C- or higher) and BIOL 240L, or consent of instructor.
NCB 315
Topics in Neuroscience
Units: 3
This course will explore advanced topics in neuroscience. Course may be repeated with different topics. Additional prerequisites vary with topic and/or instructor. Prerequisites: NEUR 305
NCB 330
Topics in Behavior and Cognition
Units: 3
This course will explore topics in behavior and cognition. Course may be repeated with different topics. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101. Additional prerequisites vary with topic and/or instructor.
NCB 332
Learning and Behavior
Units: 3
The study of learning in humans and animals. Topics include: theories of learning; classical conditioning; instrumental learning; observation learning; and perceptual-motor and verbal learning and cognition. Current research will be stressed. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101
NCB 332
Learning and Behavior
Units: 3
The study of learning in humans and animals. Topics include: theories of learning; classical conditioning; instrumental learning; observation learning; and perceptual-motor and verbal learning and cognition. Current research will be stressed. Prerequisites: (PSYC 101 and (PSYC 230 or 300)) OR COGS 101
NCB 344
Animal Behavior
Units: 3
Study of animal behavior through a synthesis of the work of ethologists and comparative psychologists. Stresses the adaptive nature of behavior and its role in evolution. Topics include research strategies, classification of behavior, evolution and development of behavior, the concept of instinct, communication, and social behavior. Current research will be stressed. Students may not receive credit for taking both PSYC 344 and BIOL 438, BIOL 439, EOSC 438, or EOSC 439. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101
NCB 346
Evolution of Brain and Behavior
Units: 3
The goal of this course is to examine and evaluate the evolutionary perspective as it relates to the study of behavior and mental processes. Interdisciplinary evidence will be explored to evaluate the presence of evolved neurological adaptations that characterize human nature. Applications of the evolutionary perspective will be explored in the context of many subfields within cognition and behavior, such as learning, memory, cognitive processing, development, personality, social behavior, disorders and more. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or NCB 201
NCB 346
Evolutionary Psychology
Units: 3
The goal of this course is to examine and evaluate the evolutionary perspective as it relates to the study of behavior and mental processes. Interdisciplinary evidence will be explored to evaluate the presence of evolved psychological adaptations that characterize human nature. Applications of the evolutionary perspective will be explored in the context of many subfields within psychology, such as learning, memory, cognitive processing, development, personality, social behavior, disorders and more. NCB 346 is cross-listed with PSYC 346. Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or COGS 101
NCB 347
Behavior Genetics
Units: 3
Explores the past and current status of the nature/nurture controversy in psychology as an introduction to the methods of research in behavior genetics. Hereditary influences on perception, learning, intelligence, temperament, personality, and psychopathology will be investigated through a consideration of current research in these areas. Prerequisites: BIOL 242 and (NCB 150 or PSYC 101) and (NCB 300 and NCB 300L).
NCB 347
Behavior Genetics
Units: 3
Explores the past and current status of the nature/nurture controversy in psychology as an introduction to the methods of research in behavior genetics. Hereditary influences on perception, learning, intelligence, temperament, personality, and psychopathology will be investigated through a consideration of current research in these areas. Prerequisites: BIOL 242 and ((PSYC 101 and (PSYC 230 or PSYC 300)) OR COGS 101)
NCB 350
Sensation and Perception
Units: 3
This course provides an introduction to the scientific study of sensation and perception. Levels of analysis range from the movement of ions through channels in sensory neurons, to emotional responses to music and philosophical questions about the nature of conscious experience. Sensation and perception are not passive processes of absorbing information from the environment, but require active filtration, selection, and integration of physical stimuli and neural signals. In this course we will study the major human sensory systems using methods from a variety of empirical, theoretical, and applied perspectives including psychology, neuroscience, physics, philosophy, music, visual arts, marketing, and more. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101 or (BIOL 240 and BIOL 240L)
NCB 350
Sensation and Perception
Units: 3
This course provides an introduction to the scientific study of sensation and perception. Levels of analysis range from the movement of ions through channels in sensory neurons, to emotional responses to music and philosophical questions about the nature of conscious experience. Sensation and perception are not passive processes of absorbing information from the environment, but require active filtration, selection, and integration of physical stimuli and neural signals. In this course we will study the major human sensory systems using methods from a variety of empirical, theoretical, and applied perspectives including psychology, neuroscience, physics, philosophy, music, visual arts, marketing, and more. Prerequisites: PSYC 101 OR (BIOL 240 and BIOL 240L) OR COGS 101
NCB 352
Music Cognition
Units: 3
Music is a uniquely human skill that has evolved in response to the design of our perceptual and cognitive systems to allow us to communicate about our emotional experiences and to interact with others around us. Accordingly, in this course we will explore the psychological principles that shape our musical experience, focusing on the core areas of music perception and development, emotional responses to music, and culture and identity formation through music. Throughout the course, students will gain an appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of music cognition research and to learn to evaluate and think critically about empirical research in general. The overarching goal of this course is to provide you with theoretical, methodological, and content knowledge regarding the fascinating intersection between music and cognition. Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or COGS 101
NCB 352
Music Cognition
Units: 3
Music is a uniquely human skill that has evolved in response to the design of our perceptual and cognitive systems to allow us to communicate about our emotional experiences and to interact with others around us. Accordingly, in this course we will explore the psychological principles that shape our musical experience, focusing on the core areas of music perception and development, emotional responses to music, and culture and identity formation through music. Throughout the course, students will gain an appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of music cognition research and to learn to evaluate and think critically about empirical research in general. The overarching goal of this course is to provide you with theoretical, methodological, and content knowledge regarding the fascinating intersection between music and cognition. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101
NCB 357
Behavioral Medicine
Units: 3
An examination of the psychological variables contributing to the development and/or progress of disease, and of the effects of illness on injury and behavior. Areas to be considered include the impact of various types of stress on illness, pain mechanisms, psychophysiological disorders, psychological approaches to prevention and management, and treatment compliance. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101
NCB 357
Behavioral Medicine
Units: 3
An examination of the psychological variables contributing to the development and/or progress of disease, and of the effects of illness on injury and behavior. Areas to be considered include the impact of various types of stress on illness, pain mechanisms, psychophysiological disorders, psychological approaches to prevention and management, and treatment compliance. Prerequisites: PSYC 101
NCB 359
Behavioral Medicine of Women and Marginalized Communities
Units: 3
Recent advances in health care have discovered the necessity for specific treatment, instruction, research, and preventive measures focusing on women and ethnic health. This course is designed to investigate the specific needs of these populations in maintaining and obtaining the best medical care for their physical health. The interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors with health and illness as they specifically apply to these populations is the focus of the course. The role of traditional medical practices, particularly Native American and Asian American health practices is also described. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101.
NCB 359
Behavioral Medicine of Women and Marginalized Communities
Units: 3
Recent advances in health care have discovered the necessity for specific treatment, instruction, research, and preventive measures focusing on women and ethnic health. This course is designed to investigate the specific needs of these populations in maintaining and obtaining the best medical care for their physical health. The interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors with health and illness as they specifically apply to these populations is the focus of the course. The role of traditional medical practices, particularly Native American and Asian American health practices is also described. Prerequisites: PSYC 101.
NCB 360
Stress Management
Units: 3
Behavioral medicine is a science that attempts to find out what makes people sick and the impact one’s behavior, biology and environment can have on your well-being and health. One key factor identified to be related to one’s quality of life and wellness is stress. Let’s face it; we all have been under stress at one point and time. Stress is often unavoidable and can be very damaging. However, very few people are aware of the impact stress has on their well-being and even less know how to do anything about it. This course is designed to provide you with an academic study of stress but most importantly, begin your development of life-long skills needed to enhance well-being. Prerequisites: NCB 150 or PSYC 101.
NCB 360
Stress Management
Units: 3
Health psychology is a science that attempts to find out what makes people sick and the impact one’s behavior, biology and environment can have on your well-being and health. One key factor identified to be related to one’s quality of life and wellness is stress. Let’s face it; we all have been under stress at one point and time. Stress is often unavoidable and can be very damaging. However, very few people are aware of the impact stress has on their well-being and even less know how to do anything about it. This course is designed to provide you with an academic study of stress but most importantly, begin your development of life-long skills needed to enhance well-being. Prerequisites: PSYC 101.
NCB 370
Topics in Neuroscience and Society
Units: 3
This course will explore topics in neuroscience and how they interact with society. Course may be repeated with different topics. Additional prerequisites vary with topic and/or instructor. Prerequisites: NCB 201 OR PSYC 342
NCB 372
Clinical Neuroscience
Units: 3
The goal of this course is to extend our understanding of the nervous system to the examination of the biological dimensions of neurological diseases and disorders. Students will have the opportunity to apply basic knowledge about the nervous system in order to make sense of actual clinical case studies. Topics will explore normal and abnormal functioning of the nervous system related to sensory and motor systems, language, vision, physiology, hormones and circadian rhythms, development, and neurodegeneration. Prerequisites: NCB 201 OR PSYC 342.
NCB 378
Explorations in Human Sexuality
Units: 3
Sexuality is a fundamental part of everyone's life. During the past decade, discussions about sexual identity, sexual orientation, sexual behavior and gender issues have become increasingly common in society and education. Sexuality is an important issue of diversity and has been the basis of discrimination, a legacy of isolation, history of violence and exclusionary practices. This course provides an examination of the major variables affecting human sexuality including the physiological, psychological, and sociocultural variables associated with the development and manifestation of sexual identity, sexual behavior, and sexual disorders. The course will also examine the historical and societal factors that have led to inequities for those who do not represent the power hierarchy of being male and heterosexual.
NCB 380
Lab-Based Exploration in Neuroscience
Units: 4
Lab-Based Exploration in Neuroscience courses provide hands-on laboratory classroom experiences within the field of neuroscience. The classes will include lectures on laboratory techniques and opportunities to present scientific information through writing and verbal presentations. The courses will provide an in-depth examination of a particular topical area in neuroscience, using classic and current empirical articles and theoretical reviews and with student-led and full class discussions and critiques of these readings. Although course topics, laboratory experiences, and assignments vary, all lab-based exploration courses satisfy the core attributes of Advanced Writing (through mentored, reiterative writing of a research manuscript). Additional prerequisites vary with topic and/or instructor. Prerequisites: (FYW 150 or CORE 2CFYW) and (NCB 300 and NCB 300L)
NCB 470
Advanced Research Methods in Behavioral Neuroscience
Units: 4
In the course, Neuroscience majors will integrate what they have learned in their previous classes. In this particular class, we will take a more hands-on approach by conducting neuroanatomy, behavioral and neurophysiology experiments. In addition to these experimental modules we will explore behavioral neuroscience by reading and critiquing empirical literature and the methodology used to investigate issues in behavioral neuroscience. The course will involve the discussion and application of research methods and statistics concepts through course content and the completion of a research project (extensive reading of the empirical literature, designing an experimental study, and collecting and analyzing data); writing and revising a scientific research paper; and orally communicating the project in a presentation. Prerequisites: (FYW 150 or CORE 2CFYW) and (PSYC 230 or PSYC 300 with a C- or higher) and (NCB 305 with a C- or higher)
NCB 491
Teaching Assistant Experience
Units: 1
Students will gain experience in serving as a teaching assistant for a NCB course, helping students enrolled in a course by holding office hours and exam review sessions. 1 unit. P/F only. Repeatable. By invitation. Requires consent of the instructor. Prerequisites: Instructor approval.
NCB 492
Major Field Test
Units: 0
As part of the department's assessment program, each graduating senior is required to take a major field test in psychology and senior exit survey. A student who fails to do so may be restricted from graduating.
NCB 492
Major Field Test
Units: 0
As part of the department's assessment program, each graduating senior is required to take a major field test in psychology and senior exit survey. A student who fails to do so may be restricted from graduating.
NCB 494
Special Topics in Neuroscience
Units: 3 TO 4
The purpose of this course is to provide the advanced undergraduate student with an opportunity to explore a variety of contemporary topics in neuroscience. These will be in-depth investigations on subjects of special interest to the instructor. Course may be repeated with different topics. Prerequisite: NCB 150 or PSYC 101. Junior standing; additional prerequisites may be included depending on topic and/or instructor.
NCB 495
Senior Seminar in Neuroscience
Units: 3
Senior Seminar courses provide an in-depth examination of a particular topical area in neuroscience, using classic and current empirical articles and theoretical reviews. The classes are run in a seminar-style, with student-led discussions of readings. Grading structure will be at the discretion of the instructor, with potential assignments such as: reading and leading discussion on peer-reviewed articles, participation in discussion, written article summaries/reviews, written reviews of the literature, article presentations, oral or written research proposals, quizzes on assigned readings, and exams on discussion and article content. Additional prerequisites vary with topic and/or instructor. Prerequisites: (FYW 150 or CORE 2CFYW) and (NCB 300 and NCB300L).
NCB 496
Research Experience
Units: 1 TO 2
Experience in serving as a researcher in a project conducted by a faculty member. By invitation. May be repeated for a maximum of six units. P/F only.
NCB 496
Research Experience
Units: 1 TO 2
Experience in serving as a researcher in a project conducted by a faculty member. By invitation. May be repeated for a maximum of six units. P/F only.
NCB 498
Internship in Neuroscience, Cognition and Behavior
Units: 1 TO 2
This course involves research or fieldwork under the joint supervision of the instructor and agency personnel. Junior standing is required unless the instructor grants approval. Course content will include volunteering or working at an approved placement or community agency, weekly time logs, internship reflection paper, and agency performance evaluation. Prerequisites: NCB 201. Student cannot be on academic probation. P/F only. Requires the consent of the instructor to enroll.
NCB 499
Independent Study
Units: 1 TO 3
Library, laboratory, or field research of the student's own design conducted under faculty supervision. A written application and final report are required. Senior standing preferred. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
NCB 499
Independent Study
Units: 1 TO 3
Library, laboratory, or field research of the student's own design conducted under faculty supervision. A written application and final report are required. Senior standing preferred. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.