Neuroscience

The Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience at Carleton University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex structure and function of the brain and nervous system. This interdisciplinary program combines principles from biology, psychology, and cognitive science to explore how neural mechanisms underpin behavior, cognition, and mental health. Students will gain foundational knowledge in cellular and molecular neuroscience, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neuropharmacology, alongside courses in psychology and biological sciences that provide a broad perspective on human and animal behavior. The program emphasizes critical thinking, experimental design, and data analysis skills through laboratory work and research projects, preparing graduates for careers in healthcare, research, or further education in neuroscience-related fields. Students are encouraged to participate in research internships and collaborative projects with faculty members, providing practical experience and fostering a deeper understanding of current neuroscientific issues. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies toward specific interests such as behavioral neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, or clinical applications. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped with the scientific knowledge and analytical skills necessary for advanced studies or professional pathways in medicine, psychology, biomedical research, or health sciences. The program benefits from Carleton’s strong emphasis on experiential learning and research opportunities, ensuring students are prepared to contribute to innovative discoveries and solutions in the neurosciences.

The Neuroscience program at Carleton University offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complex functions of the nervous system. Designed for students passionate about exploring the biological basis of behavior, cognition, and neurological disorders, this program combines coursework, laboratory work, and research opportunities to provide a thorough grounding in the field. Students will engage with foundational topics such as cellular and molecular neuroscience, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neuropharmacology, which are essential for understanding how the nervous system develops, functions, and responds to injury or disease. The curriculum integrates principles from biology, psychology, chemistry, and physics, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of neuroscience.

Throughout the program, students participate in hands-on laboratory experiences that develop their technical skills in neurobiological research methods, including microscopy, electrophysiology, and neuroimaging techniques. These practical components prepare graduates to pursue careers in research, healthcare, or education, or continue their studies at the graduate level. The program also emphasizes critical thinking and scientific communication, encouraging students to analyze complex data, contribute to scholarly discussions, and present their findings effectively.

In addition to coursework, students have access to research projects supervised by experienced faculty members engaged in cutting-edge neuroscience research. Opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with clinical and industry partners are available, providing real-world exposure and networking advantages. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable about the structure and function of the nervous system but also equipped with the analytical and technical skills needed to innovate and contribute to advancements in neuroscience and related fields. Whether pursuing careers in research, medicine, psychology, or industry, students graduating from Carleton’s Neuroscience program will be well-prepared to address some of the most intriguing and challenging questions about the human brain and nervous system.

The Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience at Carleton University requires students to complete a total of 120 credit hours for graduation. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines core courses in neuroscience, biology, psychology, and related fields, along with elective courses allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests within the domain. Students must fulfill foundational coursework in biological sciences, including introductory biology and chemistry, which provide the necessary background in cellular and molecular processes fundamental to neuroscience. Additionally, courses in psychology and cognition are included to give insights into behavioral and mental processes.

Advanced courses focus on neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, and neurobiology, exploring the structure and function of the nervous system. Practical laboratory courses and research opportunities are integral components of the program, enabling students to acquire hands-on skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. To graduate, students are typically required to maintain a minimum GPA of 60% across all coursework and complete a major research project or thesis in neuroscience, demonstrating their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scientific questions.

Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and internships to gain professional experience and stay updated with current developments in neuroscience. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking, preparing graduates for careers in research, healthcare, or further studies in graduate or professional schools. Specific course requirements, credit allocations, and admission standards are detailed in the university’s academic calendar and departmental guidelines.

The Neuroscience undergraduate program at Carleton University offers a range of financial aid options to support students throughout their studies. Students are encouraged to explore various sources of funding, including government-sponsored scholarships, bursaries, and awards, which are available based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific criteria such as community involvement or leadership. The university provides information on scholarships that are automatically awarded upon admission, as well as those requiring a separate application process. In addition to university-funded bursaries, students can access provincial and federal government financial aid programs, such as the Canada Student Grants and Loans, which help reduce the financial burden of higher education. Carleton University also encourages students to seek external scholarships offered by private organizations, foundations, and industry partners related to neuroscience, health sciences, and research. Work-study positions and part-time employment opportunities are available on campus, enabling students to gain practical experience while earning income to support their studies. The university's financial services office offers guidance on budgeting, financial planning, and managing student loans, ensuring students are well-informed about their financial options. International students pursuing the Neuroscience program can access specific scholarships designated for international applicants, along with information on work opportunities during and after their studies to help offset costs. Overall, Carleton University is committed to providing comprehensive financial support to enable students to focus on their education and research activities without excessive financial worry.

The Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at Carleton University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the biological and psychological aspects of the nervous system. The program aims to equip students with a multidisciplinary understanding of brain functions, neural mechanisms, and their implications for behavior and disease. The curriculum combines coursework in biology, psychology, and related sciences, offering both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory experience. Students have the opportunity to explore areas such as neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, cognitive neuroscience, and developmental neuroscience. The program emphasizes research skills, critical thinking, and analytical abilities necessary for careers in healthcare, research, or further study in graduate programs. Students can engage in supervised research projects, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge neuroscience research facilities. The program prepares graduates for professional pathways including medicine, psychology, biomedical research, or neurology. Additionally, students can tailor their degree through elective courses to focus on specific interests like neuropsychology, molecular neuroscience, or behavioral neuroscience. Carleton University’s Neuroscience program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to work with faculty and students from other programs such as health sciences, psychology, and biology. The program is designed to be rigorous and challenging, fostering a deep understanding of the biological basis of neurological and psychiatric disorders, as well as the capabilities of modern neuroscience methods. Graduates of the program are well-equipped with knowledge and skills to contribute to research teams or pursue advanced degrees, ultimately supporting the advancement of neuroscience and contributing to improvements in health and disease treatments.