

The Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience provides students with an in-depth understanding of the nervous system, brain function, and the biological basis of behavior. The program emphasizes scientific expertise and analytical skills, preparing students to study neural mechanisms, cognition, and neurological disorders through a combination of theoretical knowledge and experimental research. Students explore molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscience, learning to integrate findings from biology, psychology, and computational modeling. Coursework combines classroom learning, laboratory practice, and research projects, equipping graduates to analyze complex neurological phenomena and contribute to advancements in neuroscience research and applications.
Over four years, students engage in courses covering neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, cognitive neuroscience, behavioral neuroscience, and research methodologies. Hands-on experiences, including laboratory experiments, data analysis, and collaborative research projects, allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world neuroscience challenges. Students also explore neurodevelopment, neuroplasticity, and clinical neuroscience, preparing them for work in research, healthcare, or academic settings. By the final year, graduates demonstrate research competence, critical thinking, and professional readiness, positioning them for careers in neuroscience research, healthcare, biotechnology, or advanced studies in neurobiology and related fields.
Year 1 - Foundations in Neuroscience
• Introduction to Neuroscience and Nervous System
• Fundamentals of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
• Academic Writing and Research Methods
• Principles of Psychology and Behavior
Year 2 - Core Neuroscience and Laboratory Skills
• Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
• Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience
• Neurophysiology and Experimental Techniques
• Elective Modules in Biology, Psychology, or Data Analysis
Year 3 - Applied Neuroscience and Research
• Neurodevelopment and Neuroplasticity
• Systems Neuroscience and Brain Function
• Internship or Research Laboratory Project
• Elective Modules in Clinical or Computational Neuroscience
Year 4 - Capstone and Professional Integration
• Independent Neuroscience Research Project
• Seminar in Contemporary Neuroscience Topics
• Internship in Research Institutes, Hospitals, or Biotechnology Firms
• Advanced Topics in Neural Systems and Brain Function
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in neuroscience research, healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and academic institutions. Career paths include positions in research laboratories, hospitals, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, and educational institutions, where professionals investigate neural processes, develop treatments, and contribute to scientific knowledge. Graduates may also pursue roles in clinical research, cognitive science, or continue with advanced studies in neuroscience, neurobiology, or biomedical sciences. The program equips students with research expertise, analytical skills, and scientific competence, enabling them to excel in multidisciplinary and professional neuroscience environments.
This program is ideal for students passionate about understanding the brain, nervous system, and human behavior, seeking to combine scientific knowledge with practical research skills. Learners develop critical thinking, experimental design abilities, data analysis proficiency, and professional readiness, enabling them to investigate complex neurological questions and contribute to scientific discoveries. The four-year curriculum balances theoretical study, laboratory practice, research projects, and professional experiences, providing a comprehensive foundation in neuroscience. By integrating hands-on research with advanced academic training, students gain the expertise, confidence, and skills to pursue careers in neuroscience, healthcare, biotechnology, or continue with advanced studies, positioning themselves as capable and innovative professionals in the field.
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States