UWA Handbook 2023

Major Overview

Description

How do we process the sensory stimuli we receive? How does the nervous system grow, develop and learn? How do medical conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, deafness, dementia and depression afflict the brain and nervous system? Neuroscientists are interested in the answers to these questions and how nervous system function can be restored after disease and injury to the brain. You will be taught by academics with established international reputations in neuroscience research at all levels—from the molecules that make up individual nerve cells and that transfer information from one nerve cell to another, to the complexities of how behaviour, thought and emotions are produced.

Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate a sound knowledge of basic cell and systems biology and biological chemistry and apply this knowledge to neural cells and systems; (2) recall and integrate key facts and concepts about the structure and function of the nervous systems of humans and other animals; (3) conduct some basic anatomical, cellular, physiological and behavioural investigations of nervous tissues and systems; (4) summarise the basic neuroscience underpinning common pathological conditions of the nervous systems; (5) work productively in small groups in a neuroscience laboratory environment; (6) research neuroscience literature and incorporate into a written report on a neuroscience subject; (7) explain and critically appraise recent neuroscience literature; (8) discuss some current issues in basic or applied neuroscience research and recognise the ongoing expansion of knowledge in these areas; (9) be aware of the positive contributions of neuroscience research to health and society; (10) be aware of the ethical implications of advances in neuroscience; and (11) apply high-level critical thinking, teamwork and communication skills required for employment and further studies related to neuroscience.

Broadening guidelines

All students studying towards a Bachelor's Degree at UWA are required to Broaden their studies by completing a minimum of four units (24 points) of study outside their degree specific major. Broadening is your opportunity to explore other areas of interest, investigate new disciplines and knowledge paradigms and to shape your degree to suit your own aspirations and interests. Many of you will be able to undertake more than this minimum amount of broadening study and we encourage you to do so if this suits your aspirations. Over the next few months you will find here some broadening suggestions related to your degree-specific major. While we know that many students value guidance of this sort, these are only suggestions and students should not lose sight of the opportunity to explore that is afforded by your Broadening Choices. Advice can also be sought from your Allocated Student Advising Office.

Prerequisites

Mathematics Methods ATAR or Mathematics Applications ATAR with a mathematics unit taken in the first year. Students without ATAR mathematics will take two first year mathematics unit.

Chemistry ATAR or an additional chemistry unit taken in the first year.

Courses

Neuroscience can be taken as a degree-specific major in the following degree courses:

• BP004 Bachelor of Science
• BP006 Bachelor of Biomedical Science
• BH005 Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)

Units