5 credits
An important branch of psychology, known as biopsychology, combines neuroscience with basic psychological models for the purpose of understanding how biology, including the brain and neurotransmitters, influence human behavior. In this course, students examine the structure and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems and explore the impact of neurobiology, endocrinology, and physiology on human behavior. They examine brain functioning, including neural conduction; effects of neurotransmitters; sensory systems; and mechanisms of attention, memory, perception, and language. Students also explore literature addressing issues related to neuroplasticity and lateralization. Applying knowledge and skills from throughout the course, students develop a final research paper through which they synthesize biopsychology concepts and critically analyze related research.