Master’s in Neuroscience
Online

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/masters-in-neuroscience-online/">Neuroscience Online</a>

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 University of Florida 341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St, Gainesville, Florida 32611	$10,770	88%
#2 Parker University 2540 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, Texas 75229	$12,870	71%
#3 University of South Florida 4202 East Fowler Ave, Tampa, Florida 33620	$8,350	75%
#4 Northwestern University (on-campus) 633 Clark St, Evanston, Illinois 60208	$56,067	94%
#5 Columbia University (on-campus) West 116 St and Broadway, New York, New York 10027	$49,024	95%
#6 Tulane University (on-campus) 6823 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118	$59,090	86%
#7 University of Nevada, Reno (on-campus) North Virginia Street, Reno, Nevada 89557	$5,657	61%
#8 Loyola University Chicago (on-campus) 1032 W. Sheridan Rd, Chicago, Illinois 60660	$18,594	74%
#9 Hartford University (on-campus) 200 Bloomfield Ave, West Hartford, Connecticut 06117	$14,292	59%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

A Master’s in Neuroscience online program is ideal for individuals who want to work in research-intensive fields and have excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills. This degree prepares students to study how simple microscopic operations affect complex behaviors, such as linguistic abilities, social experiences, and emotional feedback while examining the brain’s structure, functions, and workings of the nervous system.

Master’s in Neuroscience programs also teach theoretical and quantitative methods to solve issues facing today’s neuroscientists. Exams, journals, and oral presentations help students improve their professional communication skills, which is essential in neuroscience-related careers. Students will also gain an understanding of clinical and ethical responsibility, an awareness of current problems, and the ability to comprehend the effects of neuroscience research on human and animal behavior. All these skills, coupled with multidisciplinary subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Neurobiology, will prepare students to seek employment in health-related sectors and work as language therapists, psychiatrists, neurosurgeons, etc.

Working professionals who want to progress in their current careers or transition into new jobs in neuroscience-related fields and postbaccalaureate students pursuing admission to health-related graduate schools will benefit from a Master’s in Neuroscience online program.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Master’s in Neuroscience Online Programs

Since a Master’s in Neuroscience online takes a multidisciplinary approach, the program usually covers topics related to Neuroscience subjects. These subjects include Biology, Neurobiology, Immunology, Pharmacology, Physiology, Psychology, Psychiatry, Chemistry, and more. Therefore, many Neuroscience courses stem from these subjects and increase the depth and scope of the Master’s in Neuroscience program. From a long list of available courses across various programs, concentrations, and specializations, here are a few examples:

Affective Neuroscience
Affective Neuroscience, a vital component in the Master’s in Neuroscience curriculum, explores the neural basis of emotions and their impact on behavior. Students delve into the intricate interplay between brain structures and emotional processes, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the neuroscience underlying human and animal emotions.

Neuropsychology
This course focuses on the relationship between brain function and behavior. Students delve into assessing and treating cognitive and behavioral disorders, gaining expertise in understanding how neurological factors influence mental processes. Practical applications include clinical assessments and intervention strategies.

Learning and Memory
This course explores the neural mechanisms behind learning processes and memory formation. Students delve into synaptic plasticity, molecular pathways, and cognitive functions, gaining insights into how the brain acquires, stores, and retrieves information. Practical applications involve understanding memory disorders and enhancing learning strategies.

Animal Behavior
“Animal Behavior” is a vital component of the Master’s in Neuroscience curriculum, exploring the study of ethology and behavioral neuroscience. Students explore animal behavior’s neural and physiological foundations, examining the evolutionary and ecological factors influencing diverse species. The course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, fostering a comprehensive understanding of behavioral patterns.

Cognitive Psychology
This course focuses on mental processes like perception, memory, and problem-solving. Students learn to explore the neural substrates underlying cognitive functions, exploring how the brain processes information. The course integrates evidence-based research and practical applications, providing insights into understanding and enhancing cognitive abilities.

Some of the common courses in a Master’s in Neuroscience program may include:

• Judgment and Decision Making
• Neurochemistry
• Neurotoxicology
• Cell Biology
• Sleep and Circadian Rhythms
• Neural Disease, Degeneration, and Regeneration
• Neural Engineering
• Neuroanatomy Speech Systems
• Computational Neuroscience
• Psychology and Biology of Perception
• Current Issues in Cognition
• Molecular Neuroscience
• Bioinformatics
• Sensorimotor Integration and Reflex Physiology
• Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology
• Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience
• Pain Physiology and Management
• Neuroethics
• Neuroscience Lab
• Human Neuropsychology
• Minds and Brains
• Pain Physiology and Management
• Lab in Psychobiology
• Lab in Cognitive Neuroscience
• Lab in Experimental Psychology: Cognition
• Lab in Experimental Psychology: Sensation and Perception
• Management of PNS Disorders
• Management of ANS Disorders
• Management of CNS Disorders
• Neuroethology
• Neurobiology
• Psychology of Language
• Cognitive and Social Neuroscience
• Behavioral Neuroscience

Graduates of a Master’s in Neurology can expect the following learning outcomes and acquired skills:

• An understanding of the fundamentals of nervous system function;
• Knowledge of gross, cellular, and subcellular neuroanatomy, along with electrochemical signaling in the nervous system;
• An understanding of memory thought, perception, and creativity through their relationship with neural activity;
• An understanding of addictive behavior, appetitive behavior, and sexual behavior (including sexual deviances);
• The ability to diagnose selected neurological disorders.
• Basic and general knowledge of neuroanatomy;
• An understanding of the nature of perception, memory, language, motor organization, thinking, learning and development, and consciousness;
• Knowledge of predictive behavior and reactions;
• An understanding of the function of the brain and nervous system at a molecular, cellular, systems, and behavioral level;
• Knowledge of neuropathology and its relationship with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, Schizophrenia, Depression, etc.; and last but not least,
• Oral and written communication skills, suitable for presenting at scientific meetings and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

Master’s in Neuroscience Degree Types

Being a highly technical subject, a Master’s in Neuroscience online program primarily has only one type of degree – the Master of Science or MS. A Master of Arts or MA Neuroscience also exists but can scarcely be found and/or is redundant.

Specializations in Neuroscience Programs

There is a wide gamut of specializations for students to consider when pursuing a Master’s in Neuroscience online degree. Specializations prepare students for a subfield or subcategory of Neuroscience, such as cognitive, behavioral, cultural, linguistic, computational, and developmental neuroscience, each focusing on different learning pathways. Students can choose a specialization program in the various branches of Neuroscience, some examples of which are:

Area of Focus	Description	Careers This Concentration Prepares For
Cognitive Neuroscience	This specialization explores brain processes underlying memory, attention, perception, and language. Students investigate how neural structures and functions contribute to cognitive phenomena, bridging psychology and neuroscience to understand mental processes comprehensively.	• Cognitive Neuroscientists • Research Psychologists • Neuropsychologists • Neuroimaging Specialists
Molecular/Cellular Neuroscience	This specialization focuses on the molecular and cellular processes governing the nervous system. Students explore the study of genes, proteins, and cellular signaling, exploring how these elements contribute to neural development, function, and response to various physiological and pathological conditions.	• Molecular Neurobiologists • Cell Biologists • Neuropharmacologists • Research Scientists in Molecular Neuroscience
Neuroanatomy	This specialization concentrates on the structural organization of the nervous system. Students explore the anatomy of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, gaining a detailed understanding of the relationships between neural structures. This specialization forms a foundational knowledge base for various neuroscience disciplines.	• Neuroanatomists • Brain Mapping Specialists • Neuroanatomy Researchers • Anatomical Pathologists
Clinical Neuroscience	This specialization emphasizes the application of neuroscientific principles to clinical practice. Students study the neural basis of psychiatric and neurological disorders, engaging in research and practical training. This specialization aims to enhance diagnostics, treatment strategies, and overall understanding of conditions affecting the nervous system in a clinical context.	• Clinical Neurologists • Neuropsychiatrists • Clinical Research Coordinators • Neurorehabilitation Specialists
Developmental Neuroscience	This specialization explores the growth and maturation of the nervous system from conception through adulthood. Students investigate molecular, cellular, and systems-level changes during development, gaining insights into how these processes influence behavior and cognition. This specialization contributes to understanding neurodevelopmental disorders and normal brain development.	• Developmental Neuroscientists • Pediatric Neurologists • Neurodevelopmental Therapists • Researchers in Developmental Disorders

A few branches and concentrations of a Master’s in Neuroscience are as follows:

• Master’s in Clinical Neuroscience
• Master’s in Applied neuroscience
• Master’s in medical neuroscience
• Master’s in Neurology online
• Online Masters in Computational Neuroscience
• Online Master’s degree in Neuropsychology
• Biomedical Neuroscience Master’s
• Cognitive/Behavioral Neuroscience
• Molecular/Cellular Neuroscience
• Neuroanatomy

Timeline for graduation from Master’s in Neuroscience Online Programs

As with most other Master’s programs, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA), or Master’s in Psychology, most students will complete their Master’s in Neuroscience online degree within two to three years. However, recognizing the need for a work-study balance, part-time options allow students to extend their studies, accommodating professional commitments. In most cases, students can choose a part-time approach, completing the program within a maximum timeframe of seven years.

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test assessing verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. Widely used for graduate school admissions, it aids institutions in evaluating applicants’ academic readiness. A strong GRE score can enhance competitiveness and showcase an individual’s proficiency, contributing to their acceptance into graduate programs. Since the 2022-2023 academic year, many colleges have done away with asking for the standardized test score of the GRE. However, students are advised to consult the admissions office at the college being applied to or read the program guide for exact and more information on all admission requirements, as they vary by college and program. Here are examples of universities that do not require the GRE for a Master’s in Neuroscience:

Uconn Health³

Baylor College of Medicine⁴

Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences⁵

Accreditation for Master’s in Neuroscience Online Programs

To build up a healthy career and work in the field of Neuroscience in the United States (and even overseas), students should always enroll in Master’s in Neuroscience online programs that are accredited. Accreditation is a seal of approval that conveys to job seekers and employers that the degree in question is of good standing and quality, meeting or exceeding predefined standards. Programs can be programmatically accredited by organizations such as the International Academy for Professional Development (IAPD)⁶, or even regionally accredited by organizations such as the:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

The comprehensive Accreditation Guide illustrates how and why accreditation is important for students.

As with most healthcare-related programs such as a Master’s in Public Health, Master’s in Occupational Therapy, or Master’s in Counseling Psychology, the tuition fee of a Master’s in Neuroscience online program is markedly expensive to pursue. Unfortunately, the cost of Master’s programs, including in Neuroscience, only head northwards with each passing year. Seeking external funding goes a long way in alleviating the high cost of education, which is why students should consider the following funding mechanisms when applying to grad schools.

Scholarships for Master’s in Neuroscience Online Students

Scholarships offer financial aid and opportunities for aspiring students. These merit-based awards recognize achievements, easing the burden of academic expenses. Creditors empower individuals to pursue their dreams by bridging financial gaps and fostering a brighter future through accessible and inclusive education. Scholarships for Master’s in Neuroscience online programs are often awarded by internal University initiatives. Some scholarships from outside organizations are available but may be hard to come by. A few to explore are:

Graduates of a Master’s in Neuroscience have three wider options available to them – (a) go on to pursue a doctoral program (Ph.D.), (b) go on to further specialize or study a lateral field of Neuroscience, or (c) go on to teach in educational settings, or work in healthcare and other settings.

For those who choose to pitch themselves on a career path, a Master’s in Neuroscience online can lead to a wide range of career disciplines with a heavy focus or reliance on Neuroscience. These careers include but are not limited to:

• Medicine
• Molecular Neuroscience and Neurophysiology
• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Physical Therapy
• Neuroscience Research
• General Medicine
• Anesthesiology
• Pharma
• Clinical Neurology
• Genetic Counseling
• Speech and Hearing Pathology
• Computational Neuroscience
• Physical and Occupational Therapy
• Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychology
• Biotechnology
• Optometry
• Acupuncture

Besides these career disciplines, there is employment in other sectors that Master’s in Neuroscience graduates can consider, that are of career relevance, such as:

• Neurophysiologists
• Neuroanatomists
• Neuropharmacologists
• Psychologists
• Neurologists
• Neurosurgeons
• Psychologists
• Psychiatrists
• Speech and Hearing Pathologists
• Physical Therapists
• Occupational Therapists
• Physiological psychologist
• Psychobiologist
• Psychophysicist
• Biological psychologist
• Neuroscientist
• Neuroanatomist
• Neurobiologist
• Neurochemist
• Neuropharmacologist
• Neurophysiologist
• Neuropsychologist
• Neuroradiologist

Touching upon the points of career outlook and salary, the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the demand for Physical Therapists between 2022 and 2023 will increase by a whopping 15%, much faster than the average of other sectors in healthcare. Physical Therapists earn a median annual salary of $97,720¹². This, of course, is only an example of the potential Neuroscience graduates have in the job market. Some other examples of Neuroscience-related jobs and their median annual salary are:

Occupation	Neurodiagnostics Tech – EEG13
Median Annual Salary	$61,743
Job Growth (up to 2032)	No Data Available
Job Description	The Neurodiagnostics Tech- EEG aids in diagnosing brain and nervous system disorders, including brain tumors, sleep disorders, strokes, and epilepsy. They operate specialized equipment to measure and record electrical activity in the brain, peripheral nervous system, and spinal cord. The role generally reports to a supervisor or manager.

Occupation	Neurologist14
Median Annual Salary	$282,500
Job Growth (up to 2032)	No Data Available
Job Description	The Neurologist consults with patients to identify suitable treatment plans, examining and diagnosing nervous system disorders. The Neurologist may recommend and order tests to ascertain the extent of illness or aid in diagnosing conditions.

Occupation	Electroneurodiagnostic Technologist15
Median Annual Salary	$61,800
Job Growth (up to 2032)	No Data Available
Job Description	The Electroneurodiagnostic Technologist aids in analyzing and diagnosing brain and nervous system disorders like brain tumors, sleep disorders, strokes, and epilepsy. They operate specialized equipment to measure and record the electrical activity of the brain, peripheral nervous system, and spinal cord.

Occupation	Physician Assistant16
Median Annual Salary	$126,010
Job Growth (up to 2032)	27% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Physician assistants operate across diverse healthcare specialties, which include primary care, family medicine, emergency medicine, and psychiatry. Their duties vary significantly based on their specialization or the nature of the medical practice they are engaged in.

Students are confused with two types of certifications. One of them is a graduate certificate in Neuroscience online, which is essentially a program similar to a Master’s in Neuroscience online program but does not confer a degree. These graduate certificate programs are shorter and apply to those not interested in a degree or who already have one and are more interested in taking additional courses to gain knowledge and develop the required skills for a particular profession. 

The other variant of certification is the one that acts more like an endorsement at a granular level. These certifications are awarded by private, public, or government agencies and are designed to meet industry-specific needs. Certifications add value to a Master’s degree and qualify graduates to work in niche areas, in this case – a subfield of Neuroscience. Here are a few such certifications:

Certificate in Applied Neuroscience¹⁷
Awarded by Brain First, the Certificate in Applied Neuroscience offers a focused exploration of practical applications. This 12-week program equips individuals with insights into applying neuroscience principles across various fields, building a deeper understanding of brain function and behavior.

Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN)¹⁸
The Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN®) offered by the American Board of Neuroscience Nursing (ABNN) is the sole credential reflecting extensive expertise in fundamental neuroscience nursing concepts. If managing patients with neurological trauma, chronic illnesses, tumors, infections, seizures, and other conditions regularly, the CNRN credential is optimal for advancing one’s career.

Stroke Certified Registered Nurse (SCRN)¹⁹
The SCRN® certification, crafted to enhance excellence and professionalism in stroke patient care, enables nurses to deliver hyperacute, acute, and post-acute care, along with secondary and preventative care. Attaining an SCRN certification allows for advancing the nursing and neuroscience careers, contributing to improved patient outcomes.

Working in most clinical and medical settings in neuroscience could require licensure in the United States. Graduates should check with state regulations to see licensing norms, as they vary from one state to another. Those who interact medically with patients will almost certainly need a medical license to work.

The field of Neuroscience is quite a vast one, requiring students and working professionals to connect with others in a variety of related sciences to understand how they intersect with each other, and what approaches can be used to address the many real-world issues that fall within the scope of Neuroscience. Graduates of a Master’s in Neuroscience online program should ideally stay up-to-date with the latest developments, increase their knowledge through scientific journals and publications, and engage with like-minded peers through various online communities. Listed below are a few resources that Neuroscience students and professionals could use:

1. ScienceDirect
   A quick search with ScienceDirect will throw up an impressive 466,064 results, which include review articles, research articles, book chapters, discussions, case reviews, editorials, and much more, either directly to do with Neuroscience or on allied fields such as Molecular Biology, Immunology, Psychology, Medicine, etc.
2. Society for Neuroscience (SfN)
   The Society for Neuroscience (SfN) advocates Neuroscience, supports careers, provides resources for education and engagement, and hosts virtual events and publications.
3. International Brain Research Organization (IBRO)
   International Brain Research Organization (IBRO) is a global Neuroscience community that builds partnerships, publishes journals, and conducts training programs to do with the study and research of the brain.
4. Stratleader
   Aside from covering Neuroleadership, Neurosafety, and Strengths Development, Stratleader offers many Neuroscience resources.
5. Human Brain Project (HBP)
   The Human Brain Project (HBP) is one of the largest research projects in the world, with over 500 scientists and engineers coming together to address one of the most challenging research targets – the human brain. The project offers deeper insights into various topics, such as brain simulation, silicon brains, understanding cognition, medicine, robots, massive computing, and more.