Neuroscience

The Vanderbilt University Neuroscience program offers an interdisciplinary education designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the nervous system, from the molecular and cellular levels to complex behavioral and cognitive functions. Our program combines coursework, laboratory research, and clinical insights to prepare students for diverse careers in neuroscience, medicine, research, and healthcare. Students have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research conducted by renowned faculty members who are leaders in areas such as neurobiology, neuropharmacology, neurophysiology, and cognitive neuroscience. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, critical thinking, and innovation, encouraging students to explore foundational principles as well as emerging fields like neuroinformatics and neural engineering.

The program is suitable for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees, medical careers, or industry roles related to neuroscience and brain health. Undergraduate students can participate in research projects within state-of-the-art facilities, gaining hands-on experience in experimental techniques and data analysis. The program also offers seminars, workshops, and interdisciplinary collaborations to foster a rich academic environment that promotes curiosity and discovery. Our goal is to equip students not only with rigorous scientific knowledge but also with the analytical and communication skills essential for leadership in neuroscience. Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to scientific research, clinical practice, or further graduate studies in neuroscience or related biomedical fields, supporting Vanderbilt's commitment to advancing understanding of brain function and improving patient outcomes.

Students can enter the Neuroscience Graduate through the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program (IGP), or be directly admitted into the Neuroscience Graduate Program (NGP), or through the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP). As stipulated by the Vanderbilt University Graduate School, 72 total hours of graduate credit is required for the Neuroscience Ph.D. degree with a minimum of 24 hours of didactic (classroom) coursework and the balance of up to 48 credits of research hours. In most cases didactic course work will be completed during the first two years. At the end of the second year, a Ph.D. Qualifying Examination must be satisfactorily completed for the student to then be admitted into doctoral candidacy for a Ph.D. degree in neuroscience. If needed, remaining course electives may be taken following the Qualifying Examination After a student completes the qualifying process, the student's effort is largely directed towards completing her/his dissertation project.  The average time to degree in our program is just over 5 years.

All neuroscience graduate students are required to take a minimum of 24 hours of coursework by the time they are ready for qualifying exams in the summer and fall of their second to third years. Besides the 24 non-research credits required, students have the option to take additional electives and research hours, up to a total of 12 credits (including required courses) per semester.

Required courses (1st and 2nd years):

IGP Entry

• Bioregulation I & II
• Fundamentals of Neuroscience I and II (NURO 8340 and 8345)
• Neuroscience Discussions I & II (NURO 8325, 2 semesters)
• Neuroscience Research Forum, (NURO 8320, multiple semesters)

Electives

NGP Direct Entry

• Fundamentals of Neuroscience I and II (NURO 8340 and 8345)
• Neuroscience Discussions I & II (NURO 8325, 2 semesters)
• Neuroscience Research Forum, (NURO 8320, multiple semesters)

Electives

• MSTP Entry – see “Compass” MSTP handbook.

All Students

Second year

• SUMMER: Qualifying Examination; Research Hours

Third year

• * FALL: Research Forum; Research Hours.
• * SPRING: Research Forum; Research Hours.
• * SUMMER: Research Hours.

Fourth and Fifth years

Successful completion of Teaching Apprenticeship, Research Forum and Neuroscience Graduate Seminars; thesis Research and Defense of Thesis.

Requirements

Vanderbilt University highly encourages electronic applications to its graduate programs (see links below) – there is no fee for online applications.  Paper applications are still possible but require a $40 application fee. The Neuroscience program has two mechanisms for admission. Those students interested in Cellular & Molecular Neuroscience should apply through the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program (IGP), or directly to the Neuroscience Graduate Program (NGP). Those interested in Cognitive & Systems Neuroscience should apply directly to the Neuroscience Graduate Program (NGP). The application deadline for NGP applications is December 1st, while for IGP applications it is January 15.  For both mechanisms, there are a few general requirements.

Graduate Record Examination Scores 

GRE scores are required as part of the application. Official scores should be sent directly from ETS. Copies are not allowed. Scores should be sent to institution code 1871. A department code is not required, but is helpful. For IGP applications, scores should be sent to department code 0202 or for Systems & Cognitive applications, scores should be sent to department code 0213.

Official Transcripts 

A copy of unofficial student transcript should be uploaded to the application by or before the application deadline.

Letters of Recommendation 

The University requires three to five letters of recommendation from persons qualified to evaluate your academic and professional qualifications. On your application, you will be asked to provide the e-mail addresses of your recommenders. Vanderbilt will contact your recommenders by e-mail and provide them with a link to a web site, a password, and instructions on how to submit the recommendation online. Online recommendations are instantly attached to your application. If you are unable to provide e-mail addresses for your recommenders, it is your responsibility to contact them and provide them with the recommendation form.

Writing Sample 

A writing sample in the form of a statement of purpose is required for both application paths (IGP and NGP). Additionally, for applications via the Neuroscience Graduate Program, a sample of previous scientific writing is required.  It should be uploaded on the Application Status Page, which you will see AFTER you submit your application, as an additional material in the Uploads section.

The Vanderbilt University offers various financial aid options to support students pursuing their degree in Neuroscience. Undergraduate students enrolled in the program can access federal financial aid programs such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which provides grants, work-study opportunities, and federal loans based on demonstrated financial need. Vanderbilt University also participates in institutional scholarships and merit-based aid, which are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. For graduate students, funding opportunities include research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships that often cover tuition costs and provide a stipend. Many graduate students supplement their funding through research grants obtained by faculty supervisors. Additionally, external scholarships and private funding sources are available for students meeting specific eligibility criteria. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility requirements to help students maximize their financial support. Furthermore, Vanderbilt offers loan options with favorable terms and repayment plans to assist with educational expenses. It is recommended that students explore all potential sources of funding early in their academic planning to ensure sufficient financial resources throughout their studies in Neuroscience. Overall, Vanderbilt University is committed to making education accessible through a variety of financial support services, ensuring that qualified students can pursue their academic and professional goals without undue financial burden.

The Neuroscience program at Vanderbilt University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of the nervous system, integrating aspects of biology, psychology, medicine, and related fields. The program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of neuroscience, along with practical research experience. Students have the opportunity to explore various areas within neuroscience, including molecular and cellular neuroscience, systems neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, and neuropsychology. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for careers in research, healthcare, or academia, emphasizing critical thinking, experimental design, and data analysis. Vanderbilt’s state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories support cutting-edge research, allowing students to work alongside faculty members who are recognized experts in their fields. The program also encourages collaborative projects and cross-disciplinary studies, reflecting the complex and interconnected nature of neuroscience. Additionally, students can participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences to stay current with the latest developments and to engage with the broader scientific community. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue advanced study, such as Ph.D. or M.D. degrees, or to enter research positions in academia, industry, or government agencies, contributing to advancements in understanding brain function and treating neurological disorders. The university’s strong emphasis on research and mentorship provides a supportive environment for aspiring neuroscientists to develop their skills and achieve their professional goals.