PhD

Neurosciences

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 42.6 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 42.6 k / Year(s) Deadline: Mar 1, 2026
121 place StudyQA ranking:6296 Duration:4 years

Photos of university / #cwru

The Master of Science in Neurosciences at Case Western Reserve University is a comprehensive graduate program designed to prepare students for careers in research, academia, industry, and healthcare related to the nervous system. This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous coursework, cutting-edge research, and practical experiences to provide students with a deep understanding of the biological, psychological, and clinical aspects of neuroscience. Students will explore the structure and function of the brain and nervous system, mechanisms underlying neural development, neural plasticity, neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, and neurological disorders. The curriculum is tailored to foster critical thinking, experimental design, data analysis, and problem-solving skills essential for advancing neuroscience knowledge and applications. Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members who are leading researchers in fields such as neurobiology, neuroengineering, cognitive neuroscience, and clinical neuroscience. The program emphasizes hands-on research, enabling students to participate in ongoing projects that contribute to our understanding of neural function and dysfunction. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue doctoral studies, careers in biomedical research, clinical practice, pharmaceutical development, or science education. The university provides state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and collaborations with medical institutions, ensuring students gain practical experience and professional development. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from psychology, biology, medicine, and engineering to foster innovative solutions to neurological challenges. With a flexible curriculum, dedicated faculty, and a vibrant academic community, the Neurosciences MSc at Case Western Reserve University aims to cultivate the next generation of neuroscientists committed to advancing our understanding of the brain and improving human health.

First Year Units
  Fall Spring Summer
Cell Biology I (CBIO 453) 4    
Research in Neuroscience (NEUR 601)
or Research Rotation in Biomedical Sciences Training Program (BSTP 400)
or Research Rotation in Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP 400)
1    
Molecular Biology I (CBIO 455) 4    
Elective graduate course   3  
Neuroscience Seminars (NEUR 415)   1  
Research in Neuroscience (NEUR 601)   1  
Principles of Neural Science (NEUR 402)   3  
On Being a Professional Scientist: The Responsible Conduct of Research (IBMS 500)   1  
Begin thesis research      
Complete preliminary exam by July 31      
Year Total: 9 9  
 
Second Year Units
  Fall Spring
Elective courses 6  
Research in Neuroscience (NEUR 601) 3  
Critical Thinking in Neuroscience (NEUR 419)   3
Elective courses   3
Research in Neuroscience (NEUR 601)   3
Complete Qualifier Exam by July 31    
Form thesis committee    
Research    
Prepare individual fellowship application    
Year Total: 9 9
 
Third Year Units
  Fall Spring
Dissertation Ph.D. (NEUR 701) 1-9  
Thesis Committee Meetings every 6 months    
Dissertation Ph.D. (NEUR 701)   1-9
Advanced Topics in Neuroscience Ethics (NEUR 540)   0
Thesis Committe Meetings every 6 months    
Year Total: 1-9 1-9
 
Fourth Year Units
  Fall
Dissertation Ph.D. (NEUR 701) 1-9
Thesis committee meetings every 6 months  
Year Total: 1-9
 
Total Units in Sequence: 39-63

Requirements

  • Applicants must have a good academic record, e.g., a B-average or rank in the upper third of his or her graduating class at an institution whose status and programs are readily assessed.
  • Applicants must meet all of the undergraduate prerequisites for the proposed field of graduate study.
  • Statement of Objectives — Some programs have this built into the application. If not, create your own using "Statement of Objectives" as the heading. The statement should be one to two pages and include your purpose in undertaking graduate work as well as an explanation of your study and research interests as they relate to your undergraduate/graduate study and professional goals.
  • Academic Transcripts – You are required to identify all post-secondary educational institutions you have attended on your application form, and to submit an official transcript from each. Admission to the School of Graduate Studies is conditional on final certification of degrees awarded. Note to International Students: Documents in languages other than English must be accompanied by certified translations in English.
  • Letters of Recommendation - Three letters of recommendation must be submitted from those individuals sufficiently familiar with you, and who can assess your academic preparation, abilities and accomplishments. Letters should be from your most recent instructors in your proposed field of study. If you have been out of school for several years, one letter may be from your employer, supervisor or other person familiar with your most recent activities.
  • Test Scores – Your department will identify required standardized tests. When you fill out forms for these use 1105 as the institutional code for Case Western Reserve University. The School of Graduate Studies will forward all official score reports of standardized tests (GRE, TOEFL, etc.) to the program of interest. The department will inform you which standardized tests are required for your program. International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and earn a minimum score of 577 if paper-based, or 90 if Internet-based. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is also accepted. The minimum acceptable score is 7.0. Some departments may require higher scores. International applicants cannot be admitted without receipt of an acceptable official TOEFL score. The TOEFL is valid for two years after the test date. The GRE is valid for five years after the test date.
  • Application Fee - A nonrefundable application fee of $50 is required for each application submitted.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

  • ✔️ Flexible study schedule
  • ✔️ Experienced teachers
  • ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

  • Global Education
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