

The Master of Arts in Neuroscience at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign provides an intensive one year program for students seeking a deeper understanding of the brain, nervous system and their influence on behavior and cognition. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with hands on research, allowing learners to explore neural systems, cognitive function, cellular mechanisms and experimental methodology. This program equips students with the analytical and technical skills needed to investigate complex questions in neuroscience while preparing them for professional roles or further academic study in related fields.
Students engage with contemporary research topics and benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty actively contributing to advances in neuroscience. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, connecting neurobiology with psychology, computational modeling and behavioral sciences. Learners participate in laboratory projects, data analysis exercises and collaborative research that enhance their understanding of brain function, neural dynamics and cognitive processes. This learning environment fosters both scientific reasoning and practical problem solving, preparing graduates for careers that demand expertise in neural research and applied neuroscience.
Semester 1 – Foundations in Neuroscience
• Foundations of Neuroscience
• Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology
• Systems Neuroscience
• Research Methods in Neuroscience
Semester 2 – Advanced Neuroscience and Applied Research
• Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience
• Neurophysiology and Neural Dynamics
• Neuroinformatics and Data Analysis
• Applied Neuroscience Research Project
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in research, clinical, academic and industry settings that require advanced understanding of neural systems and scientific inquiry. Many pursue opportunities in biomedical research laboratories, clinical research centers, pharmaceutical companies and public health organizations, contributing to studies on neurological disorders, cognitive processes, therapeutic development and data driven neuroscience projects. Others enter academia, biotechnology firms or policy focused roles related to brain health. The program’s emphasis on research methodology, data analysis and interdisciplinary thinking equips graduates to work effectively on collaborative teams addressing complex neurological and behavioral questions.
This program is designed for students who want a focused, research driven curriculum that strengthens both scientific knowledge and practical neuroscience skills. Learners benefit from comprehensive neural training, laboratory based research, methodological rigor and evidence driven learning, all supported by a university with a strong research culture. The curriculum provides hands on experience, mentorship from active researchers and opportunities to explore contemporary neuroscience topics, preparing students for advanced study or professional roles that require a deep understanding of the brain and nervous system.
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