Program Overview
Neuroscience, MS
The Master of Science program in neuroscience provides a foundation for students to start a career in a wide variety of related fields. Recent breakthroughs have revolutionized our understanding of the biological basis of nervous system functions.
Program Description
The program offers advanced knowledge on fundamental neuroscientific concepts, the neurobiological substrates of behavior, and next-generation experimental techniques for studying brain function. An important underlying theme of the program is understanding the genetic, molecular, cellular, and circuit-level changes associated with neurodegenerative diseases, altered brain development, and neuropsychiatric disorders.
At a Glance
- College/school: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
Degree Requirements
The program requires 30 credit hours and a thesis.
- Required Core (5 or 6 credit hours)
- BIO 610 Introduction to Responsible Conduct of Research in Life Sciences (1)
- NEU 556 Human Systems Neuroscience (4) or NEU 576 Advanced Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience (3)
- NEU 558 Neuroscience Journal Club (1)
- Other Requirement (1 credit hour)
- NEU 591 Seminar (1)
- Research (9 credit hours)
- NEU 592 Research (9)
- Electives (8 or 9 credit hours)
- Culminating Experience (6 credit hours)
- NEU 599 Thesis
Admission Requirements
- General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
- Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in the life sciences, psychology, engineering, or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
- Required application materials:
- Graduate admission application and application fee
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Professional resume
- Three letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency
Tuition Information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Application Deadlines
- Fall: 11/15 for Session A/C, In Person, Final
Career Opportunities
The MS program in neuroscience prepares graduates for entry into advanced research or clinical training programs; technical positions in academia, industry, and health care-related fields; or employment in sectors focused on education, consulting, law, pharmaceuticals, and artificial intelligence.
- Career examples include:
- Clinical research assistant
- Data analyst in neuroscience or artificial intelligence
- Laboratory technician
- Medical writer
- Pharmaceutical sales representative
- Public health professional in a position related to neurological disorders
- Technologist in medical imaging or genetic counseling
Additional Information
- STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas: This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months.
- Research areas: The program focuses on understanding the genetic, molecular, cellular, and circuit-level changes associated with neurodegenerative diseases, altered brain development, and neuropsychiatric disorders.
