Graduation with Distinction: Neuroscience (NEUROSCI)
Procedure for selection of students
Neuroscience majors with a GPA of 3.5 or above in neuroscience courses, not including
independent study, may apply for Graduation with Distinction in Neuroscience. They
must also maintain at least this level of performance throughout the remainder of their
studies at Duke. The written application form must include a summary of the student's
research topic, be endorsed by the student's faculty mentor, and be approved by the
Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Expected product
Candidates will conduct and complete an original research project carried out as an
independent study in neuroscience. A substantial paper (thesis), usually based on
empirical research and written in publication style, and a scientific poster are required.
Evaluative body
A Graduation with Distinction in Neuroscience committee comprising three faculty
members. On some committees, a doctorally prepared non-faculty member who is
familiar with the student’s work may serve in place of one faculty member.
Evaluative procedure
Evaluation of the product is based on the written thesis, an oral poster presentation and
the oral examination before the Distinction committee. Near the end of the final
semester, three copies of the thesis will be submitted to the faculty mentor. The mentor
will then convene the Distinction committee for an oral examination of the student and a
decision as to whether the overall performance qualifies for graduation with distinction.
An exceptional thesis combined with outstanding performance in neuroscience
coursework may qualify a student for an annual award (to be named).
Levels of distinction
One level: Distinction.
Special courses, other activities required, comments
The thesis is usually based on at least two semesters of independent studies in
neuroscience (NEUROSCI 191/192) with the same faculty mentor.
Students aspiring to graduate with distinction will register for NEUROSCI 195S Topics
in Neuroscience. This spring term course includes review of directed reading and
research in both theoretical and experimental neuroscience. Emphasis is placed on the
development of the ability to critically evaluate empirical research and to construct
mathematical or deductive/inductive models. Final project includes preparation of a
formal research proposal and a review of the role of ethics in science. NEUROSCI
195S, while central to the Graduation with Distinction in Neuroscience experience, is
designated as an “allied elective”. Since only one allied elective may count towards
completion of a Neuroscience major, most students Graduating with Distinction are
likely to complete 11 (or more) NEUROSCI courses.
Finally, Graduation with Distinction in Neuroscience research projects will be presented
as scientific posters in April during the Visible Thinking undergraduate research forum.