Courses in BCS
Term Schedule
Fall 2025
| Number | Title | Instructor | Time |
|---|
|
BCSC 1000-1
–
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Teaching assistantship in Brain and Cognitive Sciences.
|
|
BCSC 1001-1
–
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Graduate research assistantship in Brain and Cognitive Sciences.
|
|
BCSC 110-1
Kevin Davis
TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM
|
|
Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites.
|
|
BCSC 110-2
–
M 3:25PM - 4:40PM
|
|
Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites.
|
|
BCSC 110-3
–
F 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites.
|
|
BCSC 110-4
–
M 4:50PM - 6:05PM
|
|
Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites.
|
|
BCSC 110-5
–
R 4:50PM - 6:05PM
|
|
Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites.
|
|
BCSC 111-1
Chung-Lin Yang
TR 3:25PM - 4:40PM
|
|
Introduces the organization of mental processes underlying cognition and behavior. Topics include perception, language, learning, memory, and intelligence. This course integrates knowledge of cognition generated from the field of cognitive psychology with findings from artificial intelligence and cognitive neuroscience. No prerequisites.
|
|
BCSC 151-1
Brian Keane
TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM
|
|
Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment.
|
|
BCSC 151-2
–
F 12:30PM - 1:45PM
|
|
Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment.
|
|
BCSC 151-3
–
W 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment.
|
|
BCSC 151-4
–
R 3:25PM - 4:40PM
|
|
Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment.
|
|
BCSC 151-5
–
F 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment.
|
|
BCSC 152-1
Chung-Lin Yang
TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM
|
|
Overviews the nature and processing of human languages, including comparisons between language and animal communication systems, the biological bases of human language, and the cognitive mechanisms used in producing, understanding, and learning language. Prerequisite: BCSC 110, BCSC 111, or LING 110
|
|
BCSC 163-1
Whitney Gegg-Harrison
TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
Prerequisite: Completion of the Primary Writing Requirement. What goes on in writers’ minds when they write and in readers’ minds when they read? Can learning about what goes on in both writers’ and readers’ minds help writers make their writing more effective? In this course we will delve into the cognitive processes underlying writing and reading: how writers generate ideas, translate those ideas into words and sentences, organize those sentences into arguments, and do all of this while managing things like spelling and typing, and how readers actually interpret the message being conveyed by a piece of writing. We’ll also explore the extent to which research in cognitive science can inform what we do as writers by experimenting on ourselves with research-grounded strategies. Students will read and take responsibility for presenting work from cognitive scientists and composition theorists, and will work towards a final project in which they explore existing research on a topic of their choosing and propose either further research or applications of that research.
|
|
BCSC 170-1
Karl Rosengren; Daniel Mruzek
TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
This class will focus on the psychological foundations of human development, with an emphasis on theories and methods in psychological research with children. Topics will include prenatal development, behavior genetics, motor development, perceptual development, language development, cognitive development, emotional development, social development, and atypical development. A limited number of seats in this course will be held for incoming first-year students that have received AP credit in psychology.
|
|
BCSC 183-01
Dora Biro
MW 9:00AM - 10:15AM
|
|
Considers the cognitive and communicative abilities of animals, especially primates, as compared with humans. Topics include thinking, reasoning, remembering, communicating, and understanding number, time, and causality, in animals ranging from ants to apes. No prerequisites.
|
|
BCSC 204-1
Chung-Lin Yang
MW 11:50AM - 1:05PM
|
|
Introduces methods used in cognitive neuroscience, a field that examines cognitive phenomena in terms of their underpinnings in the brain. Covers brain imaging approaches to studying cognition. Provides hands-on knowledge for functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) experiment design and data analysis.
|
|
BCSC 205-1
Daniel Mruzek; Karl Rosengren
MW 3:25PM - 4:40PM
|
|
Introduces behavioral methods used to study the development of perception, cognition, and language, and provides hands-on experience in the testing of human infants and children. Includes two research projects and a final powerpoint presentation. Prerequisites: STAT 212, and BCSC 172 or one of the BCSC core courses (BCSC 151, BCSC 152, or BCSC 153)
|
|
BCSC 220-01
Michele Rucci
TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM
|
|
Provides an interdisciplinary view of modern research into how the human brain solves the problems involved in perception, including how we perceive the three-dimensional structure of the world, how we recognize objects and how visual information is used to control action in the world. Students read contemporary research and, through classroom discussion and critical essays, explore and analyze the questions and debates that define contemporary perceptual science.
|
|
BCSC 222-01
Yuhao Zhu
WF 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
We will first study the fundamental building blocks of visual computing, including human visual system, camera imaging, computer graphics, image/video compression, and display technologies. We will then explore application domains that build on top of these fundamental building blocks such as Augmented/Virtual Reality, computational photography, autonomous machines, and digital cultural heritage. The course will necessarily span many scientific and engineering domains such as visual neuroscience, cognition, optics, signal processing, and computer systems.
|
|
BCSC 232-01
Ted Pawlicki
TR 3:25PM - 4:40PM
|
|
Introduces fundamental principles and techniques from Artificial Intelligence, including heuristic search, automated reasoning, handling uncertainty, and machine learning, to prepare students for advanced AI courses. Prerequisites: CSC 172 and MTH 150; CSC 173 STRONGLY Recommended.
|
|
BCSC 240-1
Kevin Davis
MWF 10:25AM - 11:15AM
|
|
Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section.
|
|
BCSC 240-2
–
F 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section.
|
|
BCSC 240-3
–
T 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section.
|
|
BCSC 240-4
–
R 4:50PM - 6:05PM
|
|
Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section.
|
|
BCSC 240-5
–
W 4:50PM - 6:05PM
|
|
Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section.
|
|
BCSC 242-1
Renee Madathil
MW 4:50PM - 6:05PM
|
|
Examines clinical neuropsychology, which bridges neurology, neuroscience, and clinical psychology. Covers history of clinical neuropsychology, principles of neuropsychological assessment, and the interpretation of cognition and behavior as they relate to brain dysfunction. Considers specific neurological syndromes including neurodegenerative, cerebrovascular, toxic, and memory disorders; epilepsy; head trauma; infectious processes; pediatric neuropsychology; psychiatric syndromes; and forensic neuropsychology. Patient presentations (videotape and in-person interviews) supplement lectures. Prerequisite: BCSC 110 or BCSC 240/NSCI 201
|
|
BCSC 243-1
Renee Miller
MWF 10:25AM - 11:15AM
|
|
This class covers how the brain controls behavior, and what goes wrong in various diseases, from a neurochemistry perspective. We start by learning about the neurochemicals –neurotransmitters, peptides, growth factors, etc. and move on to their receptors and associated signaling pathways, including gene transcription and epigenetics. An emphasis is placed on primary research literature, experimentation/data analysis and application of knowledge to the interpretation of scientific data. Students will attend research seminars on campus or online and write brief summaries of their understanding. The course culminates in small group presentations about the neurochemistry of diseases of interest, and an individual research review paper on the same topic. Prerequisite: BCSC 240/NSCI 201. BIOL 250 is helpful but not required.
|
|
BCSC 245-1
Gregory DeAngelis
MW 3:25PM - 4:40PM
|
|
Focuses on how single neurons and populations of neurons represent sensory information, how sensory signals are transformed and decoded to mediate perception, and how perceptual signals are converted into neural commands to initiate actions. Explores how simple behaviors (such as detection and discrimination) can be quantified and explained in terms of neural activity. Introduces students to quantitative approaches for linking neural activity to perception and decision-making. Emphasizes studies of the visual, oculomotor, and somatosensory systems, with some attention to the auditory and vestibular systems as well. Prerequisite: NSCI 201/BCSC 240
|
|
BCSC 247-01
Ralf Haefner
TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM
|
|
This is a rotating topics course that includes the study of both the computations performed by the brain and of computational models of neuronal responses. Primary focus will be on the visual system. This course is taught at an introductory level in odd numbered years and an advanced level in even numbered years.
|
|
BCSC 251-01
Jen Marsella
TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM
|
|
This course introduces the field of sleep science and medicine, in which we examine sleep from the level of cellular functioning up to sleep at the society level. Topics addressed include the neurochemistry of sleep, circadian biology, the history of sleep, normal sleep physiology, sleep across the lifespan, diagnostic sleep testing, sleep deprivation, sleep disorders, sex differences in sleep, the effect of sleep disruption on society, and dreams. Students will develop analytical skills by critically reading and discussing primary literature about various sleep topics. Prerequisite: NSCI 201/BCSC 240.
|
|
BCSC 259-01
Chigusa Kurumada
MW 4:50PM - 6:05PM
|
|
Introduces children's language development, including the acquisition of phonology, syntax, and semantics. Focuses on the acquisition of a first language by young children, comparing the acquisition of a variety of spoken and signed languages to find possible universal principles of language learning.
|
|
BCSC 261-01
Florian Jaeger
TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM
|
|
Studies the cognitive processes underlying language production, perception and comprehension, including how listeners perceive/understand words and sentences, and how speakers produce utterances.
|
|
BCSC 271-1
Daniel Mruzek
MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM
|
|
In this seminar, we will investigate the neurological, cultural, and functional implications of autism spectrum disorder and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Operating from a biopsychosocial model, discussions will include systematic review of the state-of-the-science as relates to genetics, brain structure, and behavior, as well as related implications for clinicians and researchers. Special emphasis will be placed on imbedding our discussion in the context of a historical record, as well as consideration of next-step initiatives and new horizons, as related to research and service. At the heart of our investigations will be a consideration of the implications of our discoveries for the lived experience of autistic individuals, as well as for persons with other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Investigation of primary scientific sources (e.g., peer-reviewed publications), other scholarly publications, and first-person accounts will, together, compose the primary means of investigation for this course. Prerequisites: BCSC 110 and one of BCSC 172 or BCSC 205
|
|
BCSC 280-1
Coraline Rinn Iordan
TR 3:25PM - 4:40PM
|
|
An interdisciplinary tour of human cognition with a special focus on large-scale neural representations in the human brain. Topics will include categorization, semantics, attention, memory, language, and cognitive control, with an emphasis on cutting-edge research that lies at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and computer science. The course will provide introductions to several neuroimaging (e.g., fMRI, MEG, EEG) and neural manipulation methodologies (e.g., TMS, tDCS, neurofeedback) and will involve discussions of advanced machine learning analysis techniques (multivariate pattern recognition algorithms, deep neural networks, Hidden Markov Models). Format: lectures and student-led seminar discussions. Students enrolling in this course are expected to have an introductory background in cognition and familiarity with neural mechanisms, statistical methods, and computation (broadly defined). Students who believe they meet the requirements through courses other than the prerequisites listed below are encouraged to reach out to the instructor.
|
|
BCSC 310-2
Chigusa Kurumada
MW 9:00AM - 10:15AM
|
|
A 2-credit-hour course required of all senior BCS majors who do not enter the honors program. Emphasizes reading, evaluating, and discussing primary research papers. Each student chooses a topic, becomes familiar with it, selects a classic paper, leads a class discussion, and writes an evaluation of the paper as though providing peer review for a journal.
|
|
BCSC 390-1
Chung-Lin Yang
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-10
Chung-Lin Yang
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-11
Brian Keane
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-12
Daniel Mruzek
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-2
Chung-Lin Yang
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-3
Melinda Patterson
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
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BCSC 390-4
Brian Keane
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-5
Kevin Davis
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-6
Chung-Lin Yang
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-7
–
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-8
Dora Biro
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 390-9
Chung-Lin Yang
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
|
BCSC 391-1
–
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 391-2
Jeffrey Bazarian
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 391-3
Jude Mitchell
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 391-5
Chigusa Kurumada
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 391-6
Chung-Lin Yang
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395-1
–
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395-2
David Mitten
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395-3
Duje Tadin
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395-4
Emily Knight
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395-5
Ania Majewska
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395-6
Edmund Lalor
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395-7
Karl Rosengren
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395-8
Elise Piazza
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395-9
Coraline Rinn Iordan
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed thru the .
|
|
BCSC 395H-5
Coraline Rinn Iordan
7:00PM - 7:00PM
|
|
No description
|
Fall 2025
| Number | Title | Instructor | Time |
|---|---|
| Monday | |
|
BCSC 110-2
–
|
|
|
Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites. |
|
|
BCSC 110-4
–
|
|
|
Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites. |
|
| Monday and Wednesday | |
|
BCSC 183-01
Dora Biro
|
|
|
Considers the cognitive and communicative abilities of animals, especially primates, as compared with humans. Topics include thinking, reasoning, remembering, communicating, and understanding number, time, and causality, in animals ranging from ants to apes. No prerequisites. |
|
|
BCSC 310-2
Chigusa Kurumada
|
|
|
A 2-credit-hour course required of all senior BCS majors who do not enter the honors program. Emphasizes reading, evaluating, and discussing primary research papers. Each student chooses a topic, becomes familiar with it, selects a classic paper, leads a class discussion, and writes an evaluation of the paper as though providing peer review for a journal. |
|
|
BCSC 204-1
Chung-Lin Yang
|
|
|
Introduces methods used in cognitive neuroscience, a field that examines cognitive phenomena in terms of their underpinnings in the brain. Covers brain imaging approaches to studying cognition. Provides hands-on knowledge for functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) experiment design and data analysis. |
|
|
BCSC 271-1
Daniel Mruzek
|
|
|
In this seminar, we will investigate the neurological, cultural, and functional implications of autism spectrum disorder and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Operating from a biopsychosocial model, discussions will include systematic review of the state-of-the-science as relates to genetics, brain structure, and behavior, as well as related implications for clinicians and researchers. Special emphasis will be placed on imbedding our discussion in the context of a historical record, as well as consideration of next-step initiatives and new horizons, as related to research and service. At the heart of our investigations will be a consideration of the implications of our discoveries for the lived experience of autistic individuals, as well as for persons with other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Investigation of primary scientific sources (e.g., peer-reviewed publications), other scholarly publications, and first-person accounts will, together, compose the primary means of investigation for this course. Prerequisites: BCSC 110 and one of BCSC 172 or BCSC 205 |
|
|
BCSC 205-1
Daniel Mruzek; Karl Rosengren
|
|
|
Introduces behavioral methods used to study the development of perception, cognition, and language, and provides hands-on experience in the testing of human infants and children. Includes two research projects and a final powerpoint presentation. Prerequisites: STAT 212, and BCSC 172 or one of the BCSC core courses (BCSC 151, BCSC 152, or BCSC 153) |
|
|
BCSC 245-1
Gregory DeAngelis
|
|
|
Focuses on how single neurons and populations of neurons represent sensory information, how sensory signals are transformed and decoded to mediate perception, and how perceptual signals are converted into neural commands to initiate actions. Explores how simple behaviors (such as detection and discrimination) can be quantified and explained in terms of neural activity. Introduces students to quantitative approaches for linking neural activity to perception and decision-making. Emphasizes studies of the visual, oculomotor, and somatosensory systems, with some attention to the auditory and vestibular systems as well. Prerequisite: NSCI 201/BCSC 240 |
|
|
BCSC 242-1
Renee Madathil
|
|
|
Examines clinical neuropsychology, which bridges neurology, neuroscience, and clinical psychology. Covers history of clinical neuropsychology, principles of neuropsychological assessment, and the interpretation of cognition and behavior as they relate to brain dysfunction. Considers specific neurological syndromes including neurodegenerative, cerebrovascular, toxic, and memory disorders; epilepsy; head trauma; infectious processes; pediatric neuropsychology; psychiatric syndromes; and forensic neuropsychology. Patient presentations (videotape and in-person interviews) supplement lectures. Prerequisite: BCSC 110 or BCSC 240/NSCI 201 |
|
|
BCSC 259-01
Chigusa Kurumada
|
|
|
Introduces children's language development, including the acquisition of phonology, syntax, and semantics. Focuses on the acquisition of a first language by young children, comparing the acquisition of a variety of spoken and signed languages to find possible universal principles of language learning. |
|
| Monday, Wednesday, and Friday | |
|
BCSC 240-1
Kevin Davis
|
|
|
Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section. |
|
|
BCSC 243-1
Renee Miller
|
|
|
This class covers how the brain controls behavior, and what goes wrong in various diseases, from a neurochemistry perspective. We start by learning about the neurochemicals –neurotransmitters, peptides, growth factors, etc. and move on to their receptors and associated signaling pathways, including gene transcription and epigenetics. An emphasis is placed on primary research literature, experimentation/data analysis and application of knowledge to the interpretation of scientific data. Students will attend research seminars on campus or online and write brief summaries of their understanding. The course culminates in small group presentations about the neurochemistry of diseases of interest, and an individual research review paper on the same topic. Prerequisite: BCSC 240/NSCI 201. BIOL 250 is helpful but not required. |
|
| Tuesday | |
|
BCSC 240-3
–
|
|
|
Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section. |
|
| Tuesday and Thursday | |
|
BCSC 110-1
Kevin Davis
|
|
|
Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites. |
|
|
BCSC 251-01
Jen Marsella
|
|
|
This course introduces the field of sleep science and medicine, in which we examine sleep from the level of cellular functioning up to sleep at the society level. Topics addressed include the neurochemistry of sleep, circadian biology, the history of sleep, normal sleep physiology, sleep across the lifespan, diagnostic sleep testing, sleep deprivation, sleep disorders, sex differences in sleep, the effect of sleep disruption on society, and dreams. Students will develop analytical skills by critically reading and discussing primary literature about various sleep topics. Prerequisite: NSCI 201/BCSC 240. |
|
|
BCSC 261-01
Florian Jaeger
|
|
|
Studies the cognitive processes underlying language production, perception and comprehension, including how listeners perceive/understand words and sentences, and how speakers produce utterances. |
|
|
BCSC 151-1
Brian Keane
|
|
|
Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment. |
|
|
BCSC 220-01
Michele Rucci
|
|
|
Provides an interdisciplinary view of modern research into how the human brain solves the problems involved in perception, including how we perceive the three-dimensional structure of the world, how we recognize objects and how visual information is used to control action in the world. Students read contemporary research and, through classroom discussion and critical essays, explore and analyze the questions and debates that define contemporary perceptual science. |
|
|
BCSC 152-1
Chung-Lin Yang
|
|
|
Overviews the nature and processing of human languages, including comparisons between language and animal communication systems, the biological bases of human language, and the cognitive mechanisms used in producing, understanding, and learning language. Prerequisite: BCSC 110, BCSC 111, or LING 110 |
|
|
BCSC 247-01
Ralf Haefner
|
|
|
This is a rotating topics course that includes the study of both the computations performed by the brain and of computational models of neuronal responses. Primary focus will be on the visual system. This course is taught at an introductory level in odd numbered years and an advanced level in even numbered years. |
|
|
BCSC 163-1
Whitney Gegg-Harrison
|
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Prerequisite: Completion of the Primary Writing Requirement. What goes on in writers’ minds when they write and in readers’ minds when they read? Can learning about what goes on in both writers’ and readers’ minds help writers make their writing more effective? In this course we will delve into the cognitive processes underlying writing and reading: how writers generate ideas, translate those ideas into words and sentences, organize those sentences into arguments, and do all of this while managing things like spelling and typing, and how readers actually interpret the message being conveyed by a piece of writing. We’ll also explore the extent to which research in cognitive science can inform what we do as writers by experimenting on ourselves with research-grounded strategies. Students will read and take responsibility for presenting work from cognitive scientists and composition theorists, and will work towards a final project in which they explore existing research on a topic of their choosing and propose either further research or applications of that research. |
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BCSC 170-1
Karl Rosengren; Daniel Mruzek
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This class will focus on the psychological foundations of human development, with an emphasis on theories and methods in psychological research with children. Topics will include prenatal development, behavior genetics, motor development, perceptual development, language development, cognitive development, emotional development, social development, and atypical development. A limited number of seats in this course will be held for incoming first-year students that have received AP credit in psychology. |
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BCSC 111-1
Chung-Lin Yang
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Introduces the organization of mental processes underlying cognition and behavior. Topics include perception, language, learning, memory, and intelligence. This course integrates knowledge of cognition generated from the field of cognitive psychology with findings from artificial intelligence and cognitive neuroscience. No prerequisites. |
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BCSC 232-01
Ted Pawlicki
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Introduces fundamental principles and techniques from Artificial Intelligence, including heuristic search, automated reasoning, handling uncertainty, and machine learning, to prepare students for advanced AI courses. Prerequisites: CSC 172 and MTH 150; CSC 173 STRONGLY Recommended. |
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BCSC 280-1
Coraline Rinn Iordan
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An interdisciplinary tour of human cognition with a special focus on large-scale neural representations in the human brain. Topics will include categorization, semantics, attention, memory, language, and cognitive control, with an emphasis on cutting-edge research that lies at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and computer science. The course will provide introductions to several neuroimaging (e.g., fMRI, MEG, EEG) and neural manipulation methodologies (e.g., TMS, tDCS, neurofeedback) and will involve discussions of advanced machine learning analysis techniques (multivariate pattern recognition algorithms, deep neural networks, Hidden Markov Models). Format: lectures and student-led seminar discussions. Students enrolling in this course are expected to have an introductory background in cognition and familiarity with neural mechanisms, statistical methods, and computation (broadly defined). Students who believe they meet the requirements through courses other than the prerequisites listed below are encouraged to reach out to the instructor. |
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BCSC 151-3
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Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment. |
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BCSC 240-5
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Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section. |
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BCSC 222-01
Yuhao Zhu
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We will first study the fundamental building blocks of visual computing, including human visual system, camera imaging, computer graphics, image/video compression, and display technologies. We will then explore application domains that build on top of these fundamental building blocks such as Augmented/Virtual Reality, computational photography, autonomous machines, and digital cultural heritage. The course will necessarily span many scientific and engineering domains such as visual neuroscience, cognition, optics, signal processing, and computer systems. |
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BCSC 151-4
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Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment. |
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BCSC 110-5
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Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites. |
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BCSC 240-4
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Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section. |
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BCSC 151-2
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Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment. |
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BCSC 110-3
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Introduces the structure and organization of the brain, and its role in perception, movement, thinking, and other behavior. Topics include the brain as a special kind of computer, localization of function, effects of brain damage and disorders, differences between human and animal brains, sex differences, perception and control of movement, sleep, regulation of body states and emotions, and development and aging. No prerequisites. |
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BCSC 151-5
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Explores how the biology of our senses shapes perceptual experiences of reality. Emphasizes sense of sight primarily and hearing secondarily. An important theme is that our sensory systems play a crucial role in the execution of coordinated movements of our bodies, as we navigate in, and interact with, the environment. |
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BCSC 240-2
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Explores fundamental concepts of neural organization and function. Covers gross and cellular neuroanatomy, neuronal cell biology, the electrophysiology of neurons and synapses, neurochemistry, spinal circuitry, sensory and motor systems, and higher functions including learning and memory. Neuroscience majors must also register for a NSCI 201P lab section. |
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