Year 3 Course Descriptions

Select the name of a course to see the course description from the University of Alberta Academic Calendar.

NEURO 375
PMCOL 371 or ZOOL 342 (but not both)
PHYSL 372
One of PSYCO 371, PSYCO 375, PSYCO 377; GENET 270, GENET 390; ZOOL 344
*12 in approved options
*6 in Arts options


GENET 270 - Literary Analysis
*3 (fi 6) (either term,3-1.5s-0)

Basic concepts on the organization of genetic material and its expression will be developed from experiments on bacteria and viruses.

Prerequisite: BIOL 207.


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GENET 390 - Gene Manipulation
*3 (fi 6) (first term,3-0-0)

Examination of fundamental techniques employed in molecular biological research relevant to both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems. Topics will provide the theoretical basis appropriate for molecular research in a diverse range of fields including genetics, microbiology, cell biology, biotechnology, evolution and population biology.

Prerequisite: BIOL 207; BIOCH 200 or 205 or BIOCH 220; GENET 270 recommended.


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NEURO 375 - Functional Neuroanatomy
*3 (fi 6) (first term,3-0-0)

The study of the human central nervous system (CNS), including its development and function from an anatomical perspective. The course will include some disorders of the CNS as they relate to structure and function. Credit cannot be obtained in NEURO 375 and PSYCO 475. This course is restricted to Neuroscience honours students.

Prerequisite: PSYCO 275 or consent of the Department
Course Coordinator: Christine Webber


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PMCOL 371 - Cellular Neuroscience
*3 (fi 6) (first term,3-0-0)

Lectures presented by the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry and the Faculty of Science on nerve cell membranes, ion channels, neurotransmitters and their receptors, synaptic mechanisms and plasticity, gene regulation and development, the physiology of small neural networks and disorders involving basic mechanisms.

Prerequisite: PHYSL 210, or 212 and 214, or 252, or ZOOL 242.


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PHYSL 372 - The Neurobiology of Learning and Memory
*3 (fi 6) (second term,3-0-0)

Introduction to the organization and function of vertebrate nervous systems. Major topics will be neural development, control of movement, integration of sensory information, and the neuronal mechanisms underlying memory and learning.

Prerequisites: PHYSL 212 and 214, or 210, or ZOOL 242.


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PSYCO 371 - The Neurobiology of Learning and Memory
*3 (fi 6) (either term,3-0-0)

The aim of this course is to provide students with an introduction to the neural basis of learning and memory. The course begins with a review of the historical background, experimental methods, and principles of neurobiology. Learning and memory are then analyzed at different levels of biological organization, including molecular, cellular, neural circuit, neural system, and behavioral levels.

Prerequisite: PSYCO 275.


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PSYCO 375 - Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience
*3 (fi 6) (either term,3-0-0)

Brain basis of human cognition studied using a diverse range of techniques, with a focus on measures of brain activity such as functional neuroimaging and electrophysiology and on experimental findings in neurologically intact participants. Topics include perception, motor control, attention, memory, language, emotion, and development/aging.

Prerequisite: PSYCO 275.


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PSYCO 377 - Human Neuropsychology
*3 (fi 6) (either term,3-0-0)

Brain basis of cognition viewed through the lens of patients with brain damage. Topics include mood, motivation, perception, motor control, attention, memory, language, assessment and rehabilitation.

Prerequisite: PSYCO 275.


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ZOOL 344 - Laboratory Exercises in Animal Physiology
*3 (fi 6) (first term,1-0-4)

Physiological topics are reinforced in experimental lab exercises. Labs include computer simulations, artificial tissue models and animal models.

Prerequisite: ZOOL 241 or 242 or PHYSL 210 or 212 or 214.


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ZOOL 342 - Neurobiology
*3 (fi 6) (second term,3-0-0)

Nerve cells, nervous systems and neuromuscular systems from molecular, physiological, behavioral, and developmental perspectives. Examples from both invertebrates and vertebrates are given.

Prerequisite: ZOOL 242 or PHYSL 210 or 212.


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