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Neuroscience, MS

Neuroscience, MS

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Neuroscience, MS

Biopsychology, Brain, Neurodegeneration, Neuroscience, approved for STEM-OPT extension, neurobiology

Recent breakthroughs have revolutionized our understanding of how the nervous system works at a biological level. Are you interested in exploring these discoveries? Do you aspire to conduct innovative research in neuroscience? This program equips you with a strong foundation for launching a career across a wide variety of neuroscience-related fields

Program description
Degree awarded: MS  Neuroscience

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.

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. 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.

At a glance
  • STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes

Degree requirements

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

Additional Curriculum Information
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.

Students take NEU 599 in their last semester.

Admission requirements

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:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. personal statement
  4. professional resume
  5. three letters of recommendation
  6. 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 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.

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
Session Modality Deadline Type
Session A/C In Person 11/15 Final
Program learning outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program’s learning outcomes include the following:

  • Solve fundamental questions regarding nervous system function and associated pathologies using core neuroscientific concepts.
  • Effectively communicate neuroscientific concepts both orally and in writing.
  • Conduct independent research.
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
Contact information

Program term definitions

Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

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. 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.

Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.

Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.

ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.

The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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