Program Overview
The Associate of Science degree in Neuroscience equips students with the first two years of undergraduate requirements for a bachelor's degree in the field. The program develops critical thinking, writing, and research skills, preparing students for careers in clinical research, pharmaceutical sales, and other biopsychological fields. Graduates may also pursue medical school and earn salaries around $65,877 per year.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Understanding the intricate relationships between neural mechanisms and behavior is an important and fruitful area of contemporary scientific research. Such research allows scientists to learn more about the progression of Alzheimer's disease, the neural basis of addition, and appropriate biochemical treatments for anxiety, just to name a few. Those who graduate with a degree in neuroscience find careers in clinical research, pharmaceutical sales, medicine, and other biopsychological-based positions.
Careers:
Students in this program are expected to transition to the bachelor’s degree program in Neuroscience before entering the workplace in this area. Once they graduate, students can expect to find employment in the following positions: Laboratory Technician, Medical Scientist, Biological Technician, Researcher / Research Associate, Laboratory Technologist, Laboratory Manager, Clinical Research Coordinator / Manager, Biologist, and Microbiologist. Students who complete the bachelor's degree will also be able to apply to graduate school or medical school. According to PayScale, the average salary of someone working in the field of neuroscience with a bachelor's degree is $65,877 (February, 2021).
Other:
Neuroscience requires students to develop a wide variety of skills. Taking classes that focus more on psychobiology and sensation and perception allows students to develop strong critical thinking skills important in engaging in research. Because neuroscience is a scientific field, with findings based on research, all students must master statistics and understand the research designs of studies in the field. Many of the courses required for the program are also required of students interested in medical school, and thus position students nicely for applying to medical school. Ultimately, a degree in neuroscience prepares students to be critical thinkers and proficient writers, as well as sophisticated researchers. The Associates of Science (AS) Degree program in Neuroscience provides students with the first two years of general education requirements within the discipline so they can easily and efficiently transfer into the bachelor’s degree program in Neuroscience at UC’s College of Arts and Sciences (A&S).
