Neuroscience, MS
Overview
for the degree of Master of Science in Neuroscience
The Master of Science in Neuroscience offers both course-based and research-based tracks that provide students with a thorough foundation in neuroscience. Through an integrated and intentional curriculum, students develop a strong understanding of the molecular and cellular biology underlying neuronal systems and brain function across multiple levels of organization.
Students also gain the tools and training needed to investigate complex behaviors, information processing in neural networks and integrative physiological systems, and a variety of neurological disorders. Both tracks equip students with the knowledge, analytical tools, and technical skills to manage, analyze, and interpret datasets across diverse neurobiological systems.
Graduates are prepared for careers in healthcare, the pharmaceutical industry, biologically and environmentally relevant government agencies, and other data-intensive biomedical research fields.
Course-based track
Students will receive thorough preparation in molecular and cellular neurobiology, neuroendocrinology, neurophysiology, neurochemistry, neuropathology, neuroanatomy, genomics, and structural neurobiology. This will come from coursework and laboratory classes, as well as research opportunities, and discovery experiences such as advanced optogenetics and neuroimaging technologies. A thesis is not required for this track.
Research-based track
Students will receive preparation in the same topics as the course-based track. In addition, students receive high quality research opportunities that prepare them for future research careers. A thesis is not required for this track. However, students will be required to present at a University-sponsored poster session.
Degree Requirements
for the degree of Master of Science in Neuroscience
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 12 credit hours are required at the 500 level (Core and/or Electives) | ||
| 20 credit hours are required at the 400- or 500-level | ||
| Neuroscience Core (Course-based & Research-based Tracks) | 13 | |
| The following courses are required for both Course-based and Research-based tracks | ||
| MCB/NEUR 461 | Cell & Molecular Neuroscience | 3 |
| MCB/NEUR 462 | Integrative Neuroscience | 3 |
| NEUR 529 | Professional Development Program (unless NEUR 520 PDP has been previously completed) | 1 |
| NEUR/MCB 542 | Interdisciplinary Approaches to Neuroscience I | 3 |
| NEUR/MCB 543 | Interdisciplinary Approaches to Neuroscience II | 3 |
| Course-based Track | 19 | |
Minimum of 19 credit hours required from the elective options | ||
| Neurotoxicology | ||
| Neural Interface Engineering | ||
| Genes and Behavior | ||
| Cellular Physiology | ||
| Developmental Biology, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine | ||
| Neurobiology of the Senses | ||
| Computing in Molecular Biology | ||
| Introductory Biochemistry | ||
| Neuroanatomy Laboratory | ||
| Neuro & Molecular Pharmacology | ||
| Special Topics in Cell and Developmental Biology | ||
| Scientific Writing | ||
| Cognitive Neuroscience | ||
| Brain, Learning, and Memory | ||
| Evolutionary Neuroscience | ||
| Research-based Track | 19 | |
| Research | ||
Minimum of 15 credit hours required of approved 590 courses | ||
| Individual Topics | ||
| Individual Topics | ||
| Individual Topics | ||
| Individual Topics | ||
| Individual Topics | ||
| Indiv Topics Neuroscience | ||
| Electives | ||
Minimum of 4 credit hours required from the elective options | ||
| Neurotoxicology | ||
| Neural Interface Engineering | ||
| Genes and Behavior | ||
| Cellular Physiology | ||
| Developmental Biology, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine | ||
| Neurobiology of the Senses | ||
| Computing in Molecular Biology | ||
| Introductory Biochemistry | ||
| Neuroanatomy Laboratory | ||
| Neuro & Molecular Pharmacology | ||
| Special Topics in Cell and Developmental Biology | ||
| Scientific Writing | ||
| Cognitive Neuroscience | ||
| Brain, Learning, and Memory | ||
| Evolutionary Neuroscience | ||
| Additional (400- and 500-level) courses can be considered upon approval of an advisor. Advisors will ensure that students fulfill the 500-level hour requirement. | ||
| Total Hours | 32 | |
| Other requirements may overlap | |
| Minimum Hours Required within the Unit | 8 |
| Minimum 500-level Hours Required Overall | 12 |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 |
Learning Outcomes
for the degree of Master of Science in Neuroscience
Graduates of the MS in Neuroscience degree program will be able to:
- Synthesize, understand, and critically evaluate core neuroscientific principles, particularly within their chosen fields of study.
- Apply knowledge of neuroscientific methods and techniques to evaluate, create, design and carry out experiments.
- Analyze and interpret scientific data and draw conclusions from it.
- Effectively communicate (both orally and in writing) to professional and lay audiences.
- Conduct research ethically and professionally.
- Develop effective leadership and interpersonal skills to foster collaborations.
Contact Information
for the degree of Master of Science in Neuroscience
Contact Melissa Michael, Assoc. Dir. for Curriculum & Instruction
msns@mcb.illinois.edu; 217-244-6238
The MS in Neuroscience is jointly offered by School of Molecular & Cellular Biology and The Neuroscience Graduate Program.
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences website