This option is available within the Biochemistry and Biophysics major at the following location:

• Corvallis

The Neuroscience option is designed for students interested in combining foundational training in chemistry, biology, mathematics, physics, biochemistry, and biophysics with training in psychology, neuroscience, and anatomy and physiology to deepen their understanding of the brain and the nervous system.  This option supports students who want to pursue graduate work in neuroscience, biophysics, bioinformatics, and pharmceutical research as well as work in health professions.  Students are strongly encouraged to participate in undergraduate research, and up to three research credits can be applied to the Upper-division Science Elective requirements.  Faculty advisors work with students to help them identify electives, research opportunities, and professional internships that align with their interests.

Option Code: 926

Upon successful completion of the program, students will meet the following learning outcomes:

• Demonstrate a core knowledge base in the theory and practice of modern Biochemistry and Biophysics.
• Demonstrate experimental design and laboratory skills relevant to biochemistry and molecular biology, including preparation, experimental design, evaluation of data, and safe laboratory practices.
• Critically evaluate data and design experiments to test hypotheses relevant to the practice of Biochemistry and Biophysics.
• Read and evaluate primary literature in the discipline.
• Effectively communicate scientific data and ideas, using various formats appropriate for different target audiences.
• Use databases, computational tools and other online resources effectively.
• Demonstrate awareness of ethical issues in the practice of science.

Options in the Biochemistry and Biophysics major require a minimum of twenty-one credits to complete in addition to the Biochemistry and Biophysics major. Most students can complete the major and Neuroscience option requirements in four years.

Students may either pursue the Neuroscience, Advanced Biophysics, or Pre-medicine/Biochemistry and Biophysics option with the Biochemistry and Biophysics major -  no dual combinations are permitted.

For further information, see MyDegrees or the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics website.

*

Baccalaureate Core Course (BCC)

+

Core Education course. Applies only to students admitted to an OSU undergraduate degree from Summer 2025 onwards

¹

BB 401 or BB 410 for 1-3 credits can be taken with approval from the Biochemistry and Biophysics Lead Advisor

²

Z 431 may be taken in place of (BI 331 and BI 341)

Option Code: 926