Students should have a broad understanding of the development, physiology and evolutionary history of the nervous system and of the behavior of animals, both human and non-human. Toward this end, they should have a general understanding of the electrochemical behavior of nerve cells and synapses, sensorimotor processes, and neuroplasticity and should know how to use phylogenies to construct hypotheses about evolutionary patterns. Students should be introduced to technology appropriate to the field, including basic electrophysiological recording and cytological and molecular techniques. They should understand how to design laboratory-based and field experiments, and should be well versed in methods of data collection, statistical analysis and written and oral presentation. Students should be exposed to the primary literature of the discipline and should be taught to use this as a major resource for their own learning. Finally, students should be aware of major events and trends in the history of neuroscience and ethical issues in research.

Mount Holyoke?s program in neuroscience and behavior offers an interdisciplinary major intended for students with strong, integrative interests in both biological sciences and psychology and in the biological bases of behavior. Majors take a minimum of 60 credits in biological sciences, psychology, chemistry, and other disciplines.