How is the neuroscience major at Michigan?

I'm really interested in studying neuroscience and considering the University of Michigan. Does anyone have experience with this program? I'm curious about the faculty, research opportunities, and the overall rigor of the courses.

The University of Michigan has a strong Neuroscience program under their Department of Psychology. The program introduces students to the biological, experiential, and psychological aspects of neuroscience, providing a deep and multidimensional understanding of the brain and nervous system. The faculty are very knowledgeable in a wide breadth of fields, providing rich learning experiences in both the classroom and outside of it.

A significant part of the Neuroscience program at UMich involves research, which can provide some fantastic opportunities for undergraduate students. If you are interested in research, the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) is an excellent way to get involved starting as early as your freshman year. You can also pursue a senior honors thesis as a Neuroscience major, which provides an opportunity to work very closely with a faculty mentor on an independent research project.

As for the overall rigor of the program, like any program at UMich, it will be challenging. However, it is designed to be manageable and the faculty are devoted to supporting students. Core courses include classes in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Biochemistry, and Cognitive Science, among others. Remember that the program will push you to think critically, engage deeply with the material, and become adept at research—it's rigorous, but also very rewarding.

As with any program, it's a good idea to reach out directly to the department for the most accurate, up-to-date information. Additionally, talking to current students can give you a day-to-day sense of the program and its workload. This is a major commitment, but the university provides extensive resources to support their neuroscience students.