Neuroscience

The Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Illinois at Chicago offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of the nervous system and brain function. This program integrates knowledge from biology, psychology, chemistry, and physiology to provide a well-rounded perspective on neural mechanisms underlying behavior, cognition, and neurological disorders. Students will explore fundamental topics such as neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, molecular neuroscience, and neuropharmacology, gaining both theoretical insights and practical laboratory skills. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, experimental design, and data analysis, preparing graduates for careers in research, healthcare, or further education in graduate or professional schools. Through coursework, research projects, and internships, students will have opportunities to investigate brain function at multiple levels, from cellular to systems neuroscience. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, reflecting the complexities of the nervous system. Faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research across a range of areas, including neurodegenerative diseases, cognitive neuroscience, sensory processing, and neural computation. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in biomedical research, clinical practice, drug development, or science communication. The University of Illinois at Chicago provides access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and internship opportunities that enhance learning and professional development. With a strong foundation in both science and research methods, students will be prepared to contribute to advancing understanding of the brain and nervous system, ultimately improving health and well-being.

In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, students must meet the following program requirements:

• Three areas of concentration are available for study. These concentrations are:
  • Neural Signal Transduction and Molecular Biology
  • Systems and Integrative Neuroscience
  • Human/Therapeutic Neuroscience and Methods of Neural Imaging
• Minimum Semester Hours Required 32 beyond the baccalaureate.
• Course Work

• Comprehensive Examination None.
• Thesis, Project, or Course-Work-Only Options A master’s thesis is required.
• Other Requirements Each student must present at least one seminar prior to graduation.

Requirements

NOTE: The Master of Science in Neuroscience is for those currently holding an MD degree and completing a Psychiatry residency program at UIC. These master’s candidates will be supported from an NIMH Training Grant that is already in place at UIC that represents a specific initiative by the NIH to support the training of physician/scientists. No other candidates for the Master of Science degree will be considered.

Applicants are considered on an individual basis. Transcripts of all undergraduate and any graduate work must be submitted. In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, applicants must meet the following program requirements:

• Degree Requirements Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from a nationally accredited program.
• Grade Point Average Successful completion of a Doctor of Medicine program from a nationally accredited program and admission to the Psychiatry Residency Program.
• Tests Required Successful completion of USMLE Steps 1 and 2.
• Minimum English Competency Test Score
  • TOEFL 550 (paper-based); 80, with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, and Writing 21 (iBT Internet-based), OR,
  • IELTS 6.5, with subscores of 6.0 for all four subscores, OR,
  • PTE-Academic 54, with subscores of Reading 51, Listening 47, Speaking 53, and Writing 56.
• Letters of Recommendation Three required, preferably from instructors and advisors who are familiar with the applicant’s recent work.
• Personal Statement A one-to three-page statement of the applicant’s professional goals, including the justification for pursuing a career in neurosciences, is required.

Scholarships

• Teaching assistantships
• Research assistantships 
• Graduate assistantships
• Global Education

The Northwestern University offers a comprehensive Neuroscience program designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the nervous system's structure, function, and development. This interdisciplinary program integrates biology, psychology, chemistry, and other related fields to prepare students for careers in research, healthcare, and related areas. The curriculum typically includes foundational courses in cellular and molecular biology, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and cognition, alongside advanced topics like neuropharmacology, neurogenetics, and computational neuroscience. Students have opportunities to engage in laboratory research, gaining hands-on experience with modern techniques such as electrophysiology, imaging, and behavioral analysis. The program often emphasizes a strong research component, encouraging students to participate in faculty-led projects, independent studies, or internships at affiliated research institutions. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for further graduate or professional education or for roles in industry, healthcare, or academia. The university also provides specialized advising and career services to support students' academic progress and professional development. Collaboration with other departments is common, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to understanding neurological phenomena. The program aims to develop critical thinking skills, scientific rigor, and research competence, ensuring graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the field of neuroscience.