Top Neuroscience Colleges

As a neuroscience major, you’ll learn the biological underpinnings of human behavior through intensive study of the nervous system. Neuroscience programs require students to take a broad array of coursework in biology, chemistry, psychology, and the humanities. At Dartmouth, for one example, students engage in upper-level courses such as: Cognitive Neuroscience, Behavioral Neuroscience, Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, and Advanced Neurobiology.

Earning an undergraduate degree in biochemistry will prepare students for a number of different careers including: EEG tech, residential counselor, health educator, or pharmaceutical sales. Those who go on to achieve advanced degrees often find work in positions such as: neuropsychologist, research science, physician, speech-language pathologist, veterinarian, or occupational therapist.

What do you need to make it in a Neuroscience program?

Those who major in neuroscience need to have a strong background in the hard sciences such as biology and chemistry as well as the social sciences. More broadly, skills in the area of written communication, problem-solving, working as a team, and analyzing challenging texts and ideas will lead to success in this area of study.

Your Neuroscience College Checklist:

• Do undergraduate students have access to the premier laboratories or are they reserved for graduate/Ph.D. students?
• Is there a particular area of emphasis within the field of study at your prospective college (i.e. behavior)?
• What independent project(s) or independent research are required as part of the degree?
• What is the professional background of the faculty? Do they have expertise in your precise area of interest?
• Since many neuroscience majors pursue medical or other professional degrees, how do medical/professional schools view the undergraduate institutions you are considering?
• Do they have the most up-to-date computers and technology that help prepare students for the cutting edge aspects of the field?

The Top Neuroscience Colleges & Universities

Neuroscience is a competitive field and finding the right college and program is often key to landing a good job. Schools that are held in particularly high regard by professionals, employers and students include: Pomona College, Stanford, and Emory University. For a complete list of College Transitions Top Neuroscience Colleges and Universities, click here.

*College lists are compiled on the basis of counselor interviews, guide books, exhaustive internet searches (of college and departmental websites), and data provided by The College Board and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).