Course Catalogue

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An introduction to the fundamentals of Neuroscience for students who have a limited biology background. The course will initially focus on the broad anatomical structure of the nervous system and the basic electrophysiological properties and function of the individual neuron. Building from here the course will explore the operation of neuronal networks, providing a sound introduction to cognitive neuroscience.

10 hours

All entry requirements outlined on the MSc Behavioural Science programme spec

Exam - part A is short answer questions and part B is an essay

The course aims to provide the student with:

1. An understanding of the basic components of the nervous system and how they are arranged to perform physiological function

2. An understanding of the basic electrophysiological properties of the neuron, building towards an appreciation of network function

3. The ability to apply the basic knowledge of neural and central nervous system function to the more complex network functioning underpinning cognition.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Discuss the basic anatomical structure and hierarchy of the mammalian nervous system from the cellular level up to more complex networks

2. Understand the basic electrophysiological properties of a typical neuron and appraise this in the context of neuronal function

3. Evaluate and integrate knowledge of the basic cellular components of the central nervous system and apply this knowledge to discussing more complex cognitive network function.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.