Neuroscience

Program Description:

The Neuroscience program at Hampshire College offers an innovative, interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex workings of the nervous system. Designed for students interested in the biological, psychological, and computational aspects of brain function, this program emphasizes hands-on research, critical thinking, and integration of diverse scientific disciplines. Students in the Neuroscience program engage deeply with topics such as neurobiology, cognitive science, neuropsychology, and computational modeling, exploring how neural mechanisms underpin behavior, perception, and emotion. The curriculum encourages independent learning, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests, whether that be molecular neuroscience, systems neuroscience, or behavioral neuroscience. Throughout the program, students participate in laboratory research, developing technical skills and contributing to current scientific questions. The program also fosters collaboration across disciplines, including biology, psychology, computer science, and philosophy, reflecting the multifaceted nature of modern neuroscience. By combining theory with practical application, students graduate equipped with a comprehensive understanding of neural systems and the skills necessary for careers in research, healthcare, and science communication. The Neuroscience program at Hampshire College prepares students to address complex scientific challenges and makes a meaningful contribution to advancing our understanding of the brain and nervous system.

• Brain Mechanisms
• Aliens: Close Encounters of a Multidisciplinary Kind
• Attention, Brain, and Cognition: Electrophysiological Methodologies
• Cognitive Development
• Consciousness Considered
• Exploring the Unconscious Mind
• Healthy Hormones and Modern Ills
• How People Learn: Intro to Cognition and Education
• Human Gene Therapy
• Human Physiology
• Intro to Cognitive Education
• Intro to Cognitive Neuroscience
• Intro to Neuropsychology
• Minds, Brains, and Machines: The 50 Key Ideas
• Molecular and Cellular Biology
• The Neuroendocrinology of Behavior
• The Neuroscience of Personality
• The Plastic Brain
• Sex on the Brain: Gender, Sex, and Biology
• Biological Rhythms (UMass)
• Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience (UMass)
• Cognitive Neuroscience (SC)
• Intro to Topics in Neuroscience (UMass)
• Hormones and Behavior (AC)
• Neuroanatomy (SC)
• Neurobiology (AC)
• Seminar in Neuroscience (SC)

Requirements

• Common Application
• An academic paper in English
• Supplemental essay responses
• Current transcripts
• School report, including guidance counselor recommendation
• At least one letter of recommendation from a teacher
• Certification of Finances form
• TOEFL or IELTS score (Minimum TOEFL score of 91 or a minimum IELTS score of 6.5. Predicted grades for IB English A1 or A2, or for A-level English, will also be considered.
• Additional letters of recommendation, up to three

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• MacArthur Foundation Grant Making Programs
• American Association of University Women
• Fulbright International Scholarship Program for non-US students

The Neuroscience program at Hampshire College offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to understanding the structure and function of the nervous system. The curriculum combines coursework in biology, psychology, chemistry, and physics to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how the brain and nervous system operate. Students in this program engage in hands-on research projects, independent studies, and collaborative work, fostering critical thinking and practical skills essential for careers in research, healthcare, and related fields. The program emphasizes an experimental and inquiry-based learning environment, encouraging students to explore core concepts such as neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, cognitive neuroscience, and behavioral neuroscience. Faculty members specializing in various aspects of neuroscience guide students through rigorous coursework and mentorship, supporting their development as independent scientists. The program also integrates ethics in neuroscience research, technology applications, and the societal impacts of neuroscience discoveries. Hampshire College’s flexible curriculum allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests, often combining neuroscience with other disciplines such as philosophy or computer science. Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue advanced degrees in neuroscience and related fields, or to work in research institutions, healthcare organizations, and science communication. The college’s innovative educational philosophy emphasizes experiential learning and student-driven projects, providing emerging neuroscientists with a robust foundation for their future careers. While official details about the program’s exact structure are limited, similar programs at Hampshire College reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary research and personalized education, preparing students to address complex questions about the human brain and nervous system.