BIONB 2220

Neurobiology and Behavior II: Introduction to Neuroscience

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

An introduction to neuroscience: the structure and function of the nervous system of humans and other animals. Topics include the cellular and molecular basis for cell signaling, the functions of neurons in communication and in decision making; neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, sensory systems, motor systems, neural development, learning and memory, and other complex brain functions. The course will emphasize how the nervous system is built during development, how it changes with experiences during life, how it functions in normal behavior, and how it is disrupted by injury and disease. Discussion sections will include a dissection of a preserved sheep brain.

Prerequisites for Neurobiology and Behavior majors: BIOG 1350 or BIOG 1440 or BIOG 1610; CHEM 2070-CHEM 2080 or CHEM 2150.

Enrollment Information Priority given to: sophomore, junior, and senior Neurobiology and Behavior majors.

Distribution Requirements (BSC-AG, OPHLS-AG), (BIO-AS)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2026SP, 2025SU, 2025SP, 2024SU

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of core concepts and principles in neuroscience through writing, speaking, and problem solving.
• Link neuroscience concepts to observations and experiments using the scientific method.
• Categorize the functions of the major components of the central and peripheral nervous system to the extent they are known.
• Apply the laws of chemistry and physics to understanding mechanisms of neural activity.
• Assess how mechanisms of animal and human neural function at multiple scales, from molecules and molecular interactions to interaction of neural circuits and brain pathways.
• Explain how information is encoded by neurons and neural circuits: describe how perceptions are represented, stored, and recalled for later use in decision making and control of behavior.
• Interpret modern views of how the nervous system changes with experience, and how it is disrupted by injury and disease.
• Interpret modern views of how the brain generates complex cognitive function including communication, emotions, sleep, and cognition.

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