NSU 2014-2015 Undergraduate Catalog

415 Nova Southeastern University • Undergraduate Student Catalog • 2014–2015 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS behavioral neuroscientists. The course will focus on modern, common techniques used in hypothesis-driven research to collect scientifically relevant and publishable data. Examples from various areas of inquiry (e.g., learning and memory, sleep, etc.) will be used to illustrate both applications and limitations of these techniques. Prerequisite: NEUR 2500. NEUR 3000 Behavioral Genetics (3 credits) This course provides an overview of the role of genes in animal (primarily human) behavior. Topics covered include population genetics and quantitative genetics of behavior, the molecular biology of gene discovery, and the evolution of behavioral traits. Methods and research techniques in behavioral genetics will also be covered ranging from twin and adoption studies to molecular techniques. Prerequisite: NEUR 2500. NEUR 3100 Developmental Neuroscience (3 credits) This course provides an overview of the progressive stages of neural development. The course will focus on molecular aspects of developmental neuroscience, with an emphasis on known signaling pathways involved in neural growth and specification. Current research in several fields such as growth cone guidance and collapse, activity dependent development, and applications of these to injury and disease will be discussed. Prerequisite: NEUR 2500. NEUR 3200 Drugs and the Brain (3 credits) This course provides a foundation in neuropharmacology. Topics covered include the impact of psychotropic drugs on the nervous system, basic principles of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, synaptic transmission, and an overview of brain structure and function. Prerequisite: NEUR 2500. NEUR 4100 Neurobiology of Disease (3 credits) This course is based on the National Institutes of Health Blueprint for Course Development in the Neurobiology of Disease. This course provides a lecture and literature based overview of neurodegenerative diseases and disorders. The course will focus on basic genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms that underlie a wide range of neurodegenerative diseases and disorders. The course is designed to foster an understanding of the links between basic science, disease-oriented research, and translational research. The course offers a foundation of knowledge in critical areas of basic and clinical neuroscience. Prerequisites: NEUR 2500. NEUR 4880 Senior Seminar in Behavioral Neuroscience (3 credits) Students will have the opportunity to integrate information from a variety of specialties in behavioral neuroscience. Each seminar will have a focal theme that will allow students to gain new perspectives, as well as apply knowledge from prior courses and experiences. This on an individual basis. Written consent of division director required. Prerequisites: one MUSC course; and COMP 2000, COMP 2010, or COMP 2020 or COMP 2000H. MUSE—Museum MUSE 1000 Transdisciplinary Arts: Demystifying the Creative Process (3 credits) Viewing and creating art come together in this immersive, interdisciplinary museum experience. Through in-depth study of a variety of art forms, students will examine the cultural conditions of artistic production through object- based observation. Workshops in a variety of disciplines including visual art, music, dance and drama will develop and strengthen an understanding and appreciation of self-expressive art-making experiences, nurturing spontaneity, improvisation and imagination. Students will explore the inter-relationships of the theory and practice learned in context to each student’s individual course of study. Innovation can be found at the intersection of distinct disciplines. The purpose of this course is to expose students to a variety of artistic forms; facilitate an understanding of the arts in theory, context and practice; form relationships between various artistic disciplines; and develop students’ capacity to apply creative problem solving to any field of study. The role of the museum as laboratory is explored through the unique resources available within the exhibits, facilities and studios at the Museum of Art | Fort Lauderdale and its Academy of Art. NEUR—Behavioral Neuroscience NEUR 2500 Introduction to Neuroscience/Lab (4 credits) This course highlights the biological structures and functions of the brain and nervous system and introduces the fundamental concepts in neuroscience and research methods used by behavioral neuroscientists. Concepts range from cellular to behavioral aspects of neuroscience. NEUR 2600 Introduction to Neuroanatomy (3 credits) This course will introduce students to structural, functional, and developmental features of the human nervous system. After each major structure, system, or anatomical pathway is presented, a clinical component will emphasize normal function and dysfunction resulting from injury or disease. Clinical cases will be presented to reinforce the relationship between structure and function. Prerequisite: NEUR 2500. NEUR 2700 Research Methods and Data Analysis in Behavioral Neuroscience /Lab (4 credits) This course will introduce students to a wide range of research strategies and methods being used by