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Neuroscience Major

Study of the nervous system, brain function, and behavior.

Entry: $50,000
Mid: $80,000
Senior: $120,000
Growth: 8% (above avg)

Overview

Neuroscience majors study the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and neural networks. This interdisciplinary field combines biology, chemistry, psychology, and mathematics to understand brain function and behavior.

Students explore topics like brain development, neural communication, cognition, and neurological disorders. The curriculum includes laboratory work, research experience, and both molecular and systems-level approaches.

Neuroscience graduates pursue careers in research, medicine, pharmaceuticals, and technology. The field is rapidly growing with applications in treating neurological diseases and developing brain-computer interfaces.

Career Prospects

Research Scientist
Neurologist (with medical school)
Pharmaceutical Researcher
Clinical Research Coordinator
Neuroscience Technician
Science Writer
Biotechnology Specialist
Data Analyst
Medical Device Developer
Academic Researcher

Top Universities for Neuroscience

1

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • 3.5% acceptance rate
US News
#3
2

Stanford University

Stanford, CA • 3.6% acceptance rate
US News
#4
3

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA • 3.8% acceptance rate
US News
#2
4

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA • 2.7% acceptance rate
US News
#7
5

Yale University

New Haven, CT • 4.6% acceptance rate
US News
#5
6

University of California-San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • 55.0% acceptance rate
7

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • 6.7% acceptance rate
US News
#10
8

Columbia University

New York, NY • 65.0% acceptance rate
9

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA • 5.9% acceptance rate
US News
#6
10

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO • 9.5% acceptance rate
US News
#26

Popular Courses

Introduction to Neuroscience
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
Behavioral Neuroscience
Neuroanatomy
Neurophysiology
Cognitive Neuroscience
Neuropharmacology
Research Methods in Neuroscience
Statistics
Biochemistry

Admissions Requirements

  • Strong science background (biology, chemistry, physics)
  • Advanced mathematics courses
  • Research experience preferred
  • High GPA in science courses
  • Interest in brain and behavior
  • Laboratory experience
  • AP Biology or Psychology helpful

Essential Skills

Scientific researchLaboratory techniquesData analysisCritical thinkingAttention to detailProblem-solvingTechnical writingMathematical analysis

Work Environments

  • Research laboratories
  • Pharmaceutical companies
  • Biotechnology companies
  • Hospitals and clinics
  • Universities
  • Government research agencies
  • Medical device companies
  • Technology companies

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with a Neuroscience major?

A Neuroscience major opens doors to careers in research scientist, neurologist (with medical school), pharmaceutical researcher, and many other fields. The skills you develop in scientific research, laboratory techniques, data analysis are highly valued across industries.

What is the job outlook for Neuroscience graduates?

The job growth for Neuroscience related careers is projected at 8% (above avg), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Entry-level salaries typically start around $50,000, with potential to grow to $120,000 or more with experience.

What are the admission requirements for Neuroscience programs?

Most Neuroscience programs require strong science background (biology, chemistry, physics) and advanced mathematics courses. Additionally, many programs look for research experience preferred and high gpa in science courses.

Which universities have the best Neuroscience programs?

Top universities for Neuroscience include Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, California Institute of Technology, Yale University, among others. These institutions are known for their strong faculty, research opportunities, and career placement rates.