Neuroscience, MS
Biopsychology, Brain, Neurodegeneration, Neuroscience, approved for STEM-OPT extension, neurobiology
Recent breakthroughs have revolutionized our understanding of the biological basis of nervous system functions. Are you interested in learning more? Do you want to conduct innovative research in neuroscience? This program provides a foundation to help you start a career in a wide variety of related fields.
In the Master of Science program in neuroscience, students acquire 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.
Students have mentored research opportunities with internationally recognized experts, and they are also able to explore recent primary literature and hone communication, presentation and professional skills.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
30 credit hours and a thesis
Required Core (5 or 6 credit hours) Other Requirement (1 credit hour) Research (9 credit hours) Electives (8 or 9 credit hours) Culminating Experience (6 credit hours) Additional Curriculum Information Students take NEU 599 in their last semester.
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)
NEU 591 Seminar (1)
NEU 592 Research (9)
NEU 599 Thesis
Students choose either NEU 556 or NEU 576 as part of their core course requirements. Students who choose NEU 576 complete an additional credit hour of elective coursework to achieve the 30 credit hours required for the program. Students should contact the program advisor for a list of approved electives.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
U.S. applicants | International applicants | English proficiency
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
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.
Applicants must have a 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.
Applicants are required to submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- personal statement
- professional resume
- three letters of recommendation
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Admission Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of current residency.
Applicants must provide three letters of recommendation from people who can speak to their academic experiences, qualifications and potential. Recommenders will receive an email with instructions and can submit their recommendation entirely online. Submission of a traditional hard-copy letter is not necessary.
In one- to two- single-spaced pages using Arial font, applicants should discuss their research interests and experience. Applicants should indicate what their goals are in obtaining a graduate degree; describe why the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University is suited to the pursuit of their degree; and list their publications, honors, awards or society memberships.
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | 11/15 | Final |
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
School of Life Sciences
|
LSA 181
sols.grad@asu.edu
480-965-1768
Admission deadlines
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
