Ph.D Course Descriptions
Proseminars
HCS
6302 Issues in Behavioral and Brain Sciences - Part I (3
semester hours) Doctoral proseminar on current theory and research in cognition
and neuroscience, communication sciences and disorders, and psychological sciences. Pass/Fail only. (Open only to HCS doctoral
students) (3-0) Y
HCS
6303 Issues in Behavioral and Brain Sciences - Part II (3
semester hours) Continuation of the doctoral proseminar on current theory and
research in cognition and neuroscience, communication sciences and disorders,
and psychological sciences. Pass/Fail
only. (Open only to HCS doctoral students) (3-0) Y
Research
Methods Courses
HCS
6312 (ACN 6312, PSYC 6312) Research Methods in Behavioral and Brain Science -
Part I (3 semester hours) This course focuses on applying,
understanding, and interpreting various statistical techniques in a behavioral
science context. Students learn the framework for hypothesis testing, basic
descriptive (e.g., measures of central tendency, variability and shape) and
inferential (e.g., z, t, correlation, ordinary least squares regression, and
ANOVA) statistics. The course provides
students with an understanding of the interrelationships among statistical
techniques, and computer skills required for data analyses. Students without the necessary background
knowledge of basic statistics and experimental design will be required to take
PSY 3392 before registering for ACN 6312. (3-0) Y
HCS
6313 (ACN 6313,PSYC 6313) Research Methods in Behavioral and Brain Sciences -
Part II (3 semester hours) Topics in general linear modeling
including regression analysis correlation, simple analysis of variance,
factorial analysis of variance, analysis of covariance, between and within
subject designs, and multiple regression.
Prerequisite: ACN/HCS/ PSYC 6312.
(3-0) Y
HCS
6315 Grant Writing for Researchers (3 semester hours)
Identifying funding sources appropriate to research needs, formulating a
research plan, generating specific aims and a methodological design to address
those aims, presentation of preliminary results to show the feasibility of the
proposed work, and use of appropriate reference citations. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. (3-0)
Y
HCS
6316 (ACN 6316, PSYC 6316) Research Methods in Behavioral and Brain Sciences -
Part III (3 semester hours) Applying, understanding, and interpreting
various advanced multivariate statistical techniques in brain and behavioral
science contexts. Includes principle component analyses, simple and multiple
correspondence analyses, partial least square regression, discriminant
analyses, and structural equation modeling. (May be repeated for credit) (3-0)
R
HCS
6319 (ACN 6319, PSYC 6319) Scientific Writing (3 semester hours)
Scientific writing of articles for publication. (3-0) Y
HCS
6388 (ACN 6388) MATLAB for Brain Sciences (3 semester hours).
Introduction to MATLAB computer programming. Covers the use of the MATLAB
programming language for the purpose of stimulus generation, behavioral data
analysis, statistical analyses, and generation of publication quality figures.
(3-0) R
HCS
6399 (ACN 6399, PSYC 6399) Research Ethics and Scientific Integrity (3
semester hours) An interactive, intensive course designed to cover critical
issues related to human subjects, animal welfare, research design,
accountability of scientific actions and fraud. Course designed for individuals
intending research careers in academia or industry. (3-0) Y
HCS
7310 Advanced Research Methods (3 semester hours) Advanced
methods of inquiry and analysis unique to cognition and neuroscience,
communication sciences and disorders, or psychological sciences. Prerequisite: HCS 6313. (May be repeated for
credit.) (3-0) Y
HCS 7316 Statistical
Analysis of Brain Imaging Data (3 semester hours) Covers analysis of brain
imaging data obtained from diverse techniques such as PET, SPECT, fMRI, or
EEG. Includes standard analysis with
packages such as SPM02 or AFNI as well as pattern analysis approaches (e.g.,
partial least squares regression, correspondence, discriminant, and principal
component analysis). (3-0) R
Cognition
and Neuroscience
HCS
5314 (ACN 5314) Computational Modeling Methods in the Behavioral and Brain
Sciences (3 semester hours) Computational Neuroscience, Cognitive
Neural Modeling, and Mathematical Psychology modeling methodologies are
introduced through the use of computer-based simulation modeling
experiments. Emphasizes creative
applications of these research methodologies. Prerequisites: Linear Algebra and
Computer Programming Experience are recommended but not required. (3-0) T
HCS
6310 (ACN 6310) Fundamentals of Functional Brain Imaging (3
semester hours) This course covers topics such as principles of tracer
techniques, neuroimaging instrumentation, safety issues, brain physiology
(perfusion, metabolism, and receptor function), image processing and analysis,
fundamentals of SPECT, PET and fMRI, and critical evaluation of the functional
neuroimaging literature. (3-0) Y
HCS
6322 (ACN 6322) Computational Modeling Methods for Language Understanding (3
semester hours). Probabilistic methods for natural language understanding. Use
of the MATLAB computer language for instantiating specific knowledge-based
computational theories of natural language understanding. Emphasizes creative
applications of these research methodologies. Prerequisite: Computer
Programming Experience is recommended but not required. (3-0) T
HCS 6330 (ACN 6330,PSY 6330) Cognitive Science (3 semester hours) Cognitive, computational,
and neural processing approaches to understanding perception, memory, thought,
language and emotion. (3-0) Y
HCS
6332 (ACN 6332, PSYC 6332) Perception (3 semester hours)
Psychophysical, neurophysiological, and computational foundations of sensation
and perception. Basic senses of vision, audition, chemoreception, and tactile
processing, with emphasis on understanding the processes that take us from
neurons to perception and action. (3-0) R
HCS
6333 (ACN 6333,PSYC 6333) Memory (3 semester hours) Research
and theory on the acquisition, representation, and retrieval of information by
the mind/brain. Includes information
processing and neuropsychological perspectives. (3-0) T
HCS
6334 (ACN 6334) Attention (3 semester hours) Theory and evidence
on the study of attention especially in human vision and audition. Includes perceptual learning, information
processing, and neuropsychological approaches. (3-0) R
HCS
6336 Principles of Developmental Neuroscience (3 semester hours)
Molecular and cellular events underlying neuronal differentiation, axon
guidance, synapse formation, neurotrophic factors, and neural death, with
special emphasis on activity-dependent plasticity and its role in generating
and maintaining the extraordinary precision of connections found in the nervous
system. (3-0) T
HCS
6338 (ACN 6338, PSYC 6338) Functional Neuroanatomy (3
semester hours) Function of each major brain system as related to the
organization and synaptic connections of their principal nuclei. Function of each system related to the
neurological disorders associated with disease or lesions at specific
locations. (3-0) T
HCS
6340 (ACN 6340) Cellular Neuroscience (3 semester hours) Basic
neural biology and physiology and principles of synaptic transmission. (3-0) Y
HCS
6343 Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (3 semester hours) Current
research and theory on modifications in the central nervous system that
contribute to the processes of learning and memory. Includes an overview of different forms of
learning as assessed in model systems, with extensive review of anatomical,
cellular, and molecular changes underlying neuronal and behavioral
plasticity. Prerequisite: HCS 6346.
(3-0) T
HCS
6346 (ACN 6346, PSYC 6346) Systems Neuroscience (3
semester hours) Integrative systems level study of the nervous system. Aspects of neural mechanisms and circuitry
underlying regulation of motor behaviors, sensory and perceptual processing,
biological homeostasis, and higher cognitive functions. (3-0) Y
HCS
6347 (ACN 6347) Intelligent Systems Analysis (3 semester hours).
Mathematical tools for investigating the asymptotic behavior of both
deterministic and stochastic nonlinear dynamical systems. Topics include: artificial neural network
architectures, Lyapunov stability theory, nonlinear optimization theory,
stochastic approximation theory, and Monte Carlo Markov Chain methods such as
the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm.
Emphasizes development of advanced analytic skills and mathematical
reasoning abilities. Prerequisite:
ACN/HCS 6348 (or equivalent) or consent of instructor. (3-0) T
HCS
6348 (ACN 6348) Neural Net Mathematics (3 semester hours) Vector
calculus and vector calculus-based probability theory with artificial neural
network modeling applications.
Emphasizes development of advanced analytic skills and mathematical
reasoning abilities. Intended to provide
mathematics preparation for ACN/HCS 6347 and ACN/HCS 6349. Prerequisites: Either: (1) Linear algebra,
multivariable calculus, STAT 5351 or equivalent, ACN/HCS 5314, or (2) consent
of instructor. (3-0) T
HCS
6349 (ACN 6349) Intelligent Systems Design (3 semester hours)
Probabilistic and statistical modeling tools for the design and evaluation of
artificially intelligent deterministic and stochastic nonlinear dynamical
systems for the purpose of building computational models in the fields of
neuroscience, psychology, and artificial intelligence. Topics include probabilistic interpretations
of nonlinear dynamical system models and asymptotic mathematical statistical
theory for parameter estimation, model selection, specification analysis, and
hypothesis testing. Prerequisite:
ACN/HCS 6347 or consent of instructor. (3-0) T
HCS
6355 (ACN 6355, PSYC 6355) Judgment and Decision Making (3
semester hours) This course examines human inferences, judgments, decisions,
and the processes by which we arrive at them. It will focus on the fact that
our social judgments are not based on the laws of probability and chance, but
on other cognitive processes that may have serious shortcomings in important
inferential and decision making tasks. We will also see that these processes,
while ecologically efficient, systematic and often predictable, are imperfect
in today's data-rich environment. (3-0) T
HCS
6363 (ACN 6363) Text Comprehension Seminar (3 semester hours)
Current readings in the field of text comprehension and memory. May be repeated for credit with instructor's
permission. (3-0) T
HCS
6364 Cortical Plasticity (3 semester hours) Basic principles of
neural plasticity with special emphasis on cortical plasticity related to
development, recovery from injury, and learning. Classic and recent research articles will be
discussed (3-0) R
HCS
6366 Seminar in Auditory Cortical Processing (3 semester hours)
Basic principles of neural information processing with special emphasis on the
central nervous system processes underlying hearing and speech perception. May
be repeated for credit. (3-0) T
HCS
6372 (ACN 6372) The Neuroscience of Pain (3 semester hours A
systems-oriented course covering the anatomical and physiologic basis of pain.
The course emphasizes the similarities and differences between the different
forms of pain and describes the basic features of neural processing of pain
signals in the spinal cord and brain, the anatomy and the function of the
descending systems that can control transmission of pain signals, and peripheral
and central sensitization. The physiological and molecular basis for treatment
of pain is discussed. (3-0) Y
HCS
6373 (ACN 6373) Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring I (3
semester hours) The anatomical and physiological basis for the use of electrophysiological
techniques in intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring and in diagnosis of
disorders affecting the nervous system. (3-0) Y
HCS 6374 (ACN 6374)
Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring Part II (3 semester hours) The use of recordings of neuro-electric
brain potentials and their interpretation for diagnostic purposes and for
intraoperative monitoring. Prerequisite:
ACN/HCS 6373. (3-0) Y
HCS
7309 (COMD 7309) Neural Correlates of Human Cognition: Lesion-Deficit Models (3
semester hours) A framework of how the correlation of brain lesions with
behavioral deficits provides a key map associating cognitive functions with
specific brain regions in humans. These findings provide a key model to combine
with the findings of functional neuroimaging (fMRI, PET) in understanding how
humans think. The areas of cognition to be covered include language, episodic
memory, semantic memory, working memory, aspects of visuospatial functions, and
higher-order motor planning. Cognitive deficits in patients (e.g., amnesia,
aphasia, etc.) will be explained within this framework. (3-0)
HCS
7329 Functional Brain Imaging Practica (3 semester hours)
Application of learned skills to short research projects in small group
format. Projects include: 1) acquisition
of new data in SPECT, PET or fMRI in association with ongoing funded research;
2) mentored analysis of existing data sets; and 3) experimental design projects
with a full experimental protocol, including informed consent procedures,
acquisition parameters and data analysis plans. (3-0) R
HCS
7330 (ACN 7330) Advanced Functional Brain Imaging (3
semester hours) This course explores more in-depth topics such as neuroimaging
detection systems, clinical applications of functional neuroimaging,
experimental design, statistical techniques in image analysis and reviews of
pertinent literature using functional brain imaging to illuminate various
cognitive and perceptual processes, such as language, memory, hearing and
vision. (3-0) R
HCS
7333 (ACN 7335) Computational Neuroscience (3 semester hours).
Introduction to state-of-the-art computer methods for simulation of
biologically realistic neuronal dynamics.
Students must demonstrate computer skills. (3-0) R
HCS
7334 Affective Neuroscience (3 semester hours) Current studies and
theories of the biological basis of emotion and affective behaviors. The interactions of emotional processes with
other brain functions. Topics covered may include anxiety, depression, stress,
and fear as well as hedonically positive emotional states. Prerequisite: ACN/HCS 6346. (3-0) R
HCS
7337 Advanced Neuroscience Lab Methods (3 semester hours)
Intensive hands-on training and exposure to neuroscience laboratory methods
such as neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, and behavioral observation approaches
to understanding the biology of behavior.
Experimental design, analysis and science writing are emphasized. Prerequisites: HCS 6346 and HCS 7343 or
instructor's permission. (May be repeated for credit.) (3-0) R
HCS
7343 (ACN 7343) Neuropharmacology (3 semester hours) Biology
of neurotransmission in the central nervous system. Includes ionotropic and metabotropic coupling
of all known classes of receptors to both their cellular and systemic effects. Clinical efficacy, side effects, and other
issues related to drug use and abuse are covered. Prerequisite: ACN/HCS 6340 or ACN/HCS 6346.
(3-0) T
HCS
7351 Aging and the Nervous System (3 semester hours) Critical
evaluation of research and theory concerning the impact of aging on neuronal
function. Cognitive dysfunctions, dementias, and underlying neuropathologies,
as well as neurophysiological and neurochemical changes that accompany normal
aging. (3-0) R
HCS
7372 Seminar in Cognition and Neuroscience (3 semester hours)
Selected topics and current research in cognition and neuroscience. (May be
repeated for credit.) (3-0) R
Communication
Sciences and Disorders
HCS
6339 (ACN 6339, PSYC 6339) Psycholinguistics (3 semester hours)
Classic and current research in psycholinguistics. Includes concepts from linguistics,
the biological bases of speech and language processing, and child language
acquisition. (3-0) R
HCS
6360 Neural Basis of Speech-Sound Processing (3 semester
hours) Basic neural mechanisms of
speech-sound processing. Discussion of
research articles. (3-0) R
HCS
6367 (ACN 6367, PSYC 6367) Speech Perception (3 semester hours)
Current topics and theories in speech perception. Topics include the acoustic
correlates of speech sounds and the problem of invariance, the perception of
speech under adverse conditions, the effects of hearing impairment, and models
of speech perception. (3-0) T
HCS
6368 (ACN 6368, PSYC 6368) Language Development (3
semester hours) Advanced study of normal oral language development. The goals
of this course are to consider the developmental trajectories of the different
components of language; to consider the varied and critical roles of language
in human development; to understand the impact of culture, different languages,
child factors and the environment on development; and to be introduced to the
theoretical perspectives driving research and thinking in this area of inquiry.
(3-0) Y
HCS
6379 Neurological Basis of Language Development (3
semester hours) Study of the developing brain and how it relates to the
acquisition and development of language throughout the lifespan. (3-0) R
HCS
6391 Seminar on Preliteracy Development (3 semester hours) Selected
topics and current research in preliteracy development. (May be repeated for
credit). (3-0) R
HCS
6392 Seminar in Theories of Language Acquisition (3
semester hours) A survey and critical exploration of current theories of
language acquisition and more general theories of cognitive development that
have been applied to language development. (3-0) R
HCS
7352 Seminar in Language Impairments in Children (3
semester hours) Advanced study of language impairments in children emphasizing
research issues related to these diverse clinical populations. Topics may include SLI, SCI, SELD, deafness,
and autistic spectrum disorders among others.
May be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite: COMD 6307 or HCS 6368 and COMD 7378 or consent of
instructor. (3-0) T
HCS
7367 (ACN 7367) Speech Perception Laboratory (3 semester hours)
Introduction to the field of speech processing by computer, with primary application
to research techniques in the study of speech perception. (0-9) T
HCS
7379 (COMD 7379) Current Research in Autism (3 semester hours)
Exploration of research theories related to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and
the implications the disability has on an individual's learning, behavior and
ability to process information. Topics
may include: diagnostic classification, the valuation process, current
theoretical models, intervention models, research on potential causes and
treatments, provisions for service delivery and areas of impairment. (May be
repeated for credit.) (3-0) Y
HCS
7V71 Topics in Communication Sciences and Disorders (1-6
semester hours) Selected topics and current research in communication sciences
and disorders. (May be repeated for credit.) ([1-6]-0) R
Psychological
Sciences
HCS
6327 (PSYC 6327) Personality (3 semester hours) Survey
of cognitive, analytic, and learning theory approaches to study of
personality. Emphasis on intensive
exploration of selected concepts and related research. (3-0) R
HCS
6331 (ACN 6331, PSYC 6331) Cognitive Development (3
semester hours) Survey of cognitive development theories and research in a
variety of domains including perception, memory, language, and problem solving.
(3-0) Y
HCS
6350 (PSYC 6350) Social Development (3 semester hours)
Foundations of social and personality development. Includes survey of psychodynamic, social
learning, behavior genetic, family systems, and social-cognitive approaches to
the study of attachment, parenting, aggression, peer relationships, sex typing,
and other contemporary issues. (3-0) Y
HCS
6357 (PSYC 6357, HDCD 6319) The Developing Child: Infants and Toddlers (3
semester hours) Relevant developmental theories and processes as well as skills
acquired in motor, sensory-perception, cognitive, and social domains from the
prenatal period through two years of age. (3-0) Y
HCS
6359 (PSYC 6320, HDCD 6320) The Developing Child: Toddler and Preschool Years
(Two to Five Years) (3 semester hours) Relevant developmental theories and
processes as well as skills acquired in motor, sensory-perceptual, cognitive,
and social domains. (3-0) Y
HCS
6376 (PSYC 6376) Social Psychology (3 semester hours) Overview
of the social bases of behavior. Topics
may include social cognition and self-justification, biases in judgment,
attitudes and persuasion, conformity, compliance, group dynamics, prejudice and
stereotyping, interpersonal attraction and relationships, aggression and
altruism, cultural diversity, and applications relevant to these aspects of the
human experience. Special attention to
research paradigms of interest to students developing their own empirical work.
(3-0) Y
HCS
6395 (ACN 6395,PSYC 6395) Cognitive Psychology (3
semester hours) Theory and research on perception, learning, thinking,
psycholinguistics, and memory. (3-0) Y
HCS
7311 Family Psychology (3 semester hours) Theory and research
on family systems, including topics related to family interactions and
relationships within the family. (3-0) R
HCS
7355 Seminar in Psychological Sciences (3 semester hours) Selected
topics of current research in social or cognitive development. (May be repeated
for credit.) (3-0) R
HCS
7376 (HDCD 6385, PSYC 6335) Child Psychopathology (3
semester hours) Major classes of childhood psychopathology manifested during
infancy through adolescence. Normal
personality development as a basis for identifying psychopathology. Issues of etiology, diagnosis, prognosis and
social policy. (3-0) R
HCS
7382 (PSYC 7382, HDCD 7382) Health Psychology (3 semester hours)
Current theory and research concerning the social, cognitive, behavioral, and
biological processes that shape experiences of physical health. The importance of these concepts for health
behaviors, psychosomatics, and psychological adjustment to illness. (3-0) Y
Other
Courses
HCS
7380 Practicum in Communication Sciences (3 semester hours)
Supervised, practice-based activities in applied contexts or evaluation and
therapeutic management of communication disorders. Pass/Fail only. (May be repeated for credit)
(3-0) S
HCS
7V98 Directed Individual Study in Behavioral and Brain Sciences
(1-9 semester hours) Individualized program of study which may include reading,
research, implementation of clinical strategies, and/or other designated
activities. (May be repeated for credit) ([1-9]-0) S
HCS
8V50 Doctoral Readings and Research Seminar (1-6 semester hours)
Seminar for advanced doctoral students on current issues and research in
Behavioral and Brain Sciences. (May be repeated for credit) ([1-6]-0) S
HCS
8V80 Research in Behavioral and Brain Sciences
(1-9 semester hours) Supervised research experience. (May be repeated for
credit.) ([1-9]-0) S
HCS
8V99 Dissertation (1-9 semester hours) (May be repeated for credit.) ([1-9]-0)
S