Neuroscience studies everything related to the brain and the nervous system, how they are structured, and how they develop and function. A Master’s in Neuroscience online gives students a solid understanding of normal human brain function, affective disorders, addictive behaviors, and several other functional and pathological changes that accompany neurodegenerative diseases as well. Students of this program also go on to build their communication and cognitive skills, which are invaluable in most neuroscience careers. In today’s world that emphasizes health and improving the quality of life, the research and study in areas such as the electrophysiological underpinnings of the development, function, plasticity, pathology, and repair of the nervous system, along with cognitive psychology, psychobiology, and neural substrates of cognitive processes and behavior, become powerful in industries of medicine, public health, sports medicine, and pharmaceuticals. This guide will walk through all aspects of master’s in neuroscience online programs.
To be a potential candidate for promising careers in the field of Neuroscience, students should have graduated with a Master’s in Neuroscience online program from a reputed college. Apart from the crucial programmatic or regional accreditation that is required by the job market, factors such as the experience and quality of faculty members, structure of the program, effective delivery, and, of course, value for money have to be considered to label a college “one of the best.” OMC has drawn up a list of colleges that are the best in the country and offer the best way to learn neuroscience:
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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.
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:
Graduates of a Master’s in Neurology can expect the following learning outcomes and acquired skills:
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.
The Master of Science or MS Neuroscience establishes a strong academic foundation coupled with diverse research experiences by combining biological, cognitive, and computational neurosciences, which assist in the scientific understanding of how the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system function.
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:
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.
Accelerated programs provide a quicker academic path, allowing students to complete their degrees faster. These programs often feature condensed schedules, intensive coursework, and streamlined requirements. They cater to motivated individuals seeking a faster track to degree completion, offering efficiency without compromising educational quality. A few Master’s programs allow students to complete them in about a year or even combine an undergraduate and graduate program to complete them within five years instead of the expected six years. Accelerated programs are ideal for those aiming to swiftly acquire skills and credentials for career advancement or entry into the workforce. Here are a few Universities that offer accelerated Master’s in Neuroscience:
John Hopkins University1– 4+1 Bachelor’s to Master’s in Neuroscience
Georgetown University2 – 4+1 Bachelor’s to Master’s in Neuroscience
In addition to a Bachelor’s degree in the arts and sciences, students are called to meet certain admission requirements to apply for a Master’s in Neuroscience online graduate program. Some colleges may even ask for prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, psychology, biochemistry, anatomy, computer science, etc., publication reprints or research papers, and an interview. But in general, the list below essentially covers all standard Master’s in Neuroscience requirements:
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:
Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences5
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:
The comprehensive Accreditation Guide illustrates how and why accreditation is important for students.
There is nothing like doing Neuroscience online courses free! But in almost all cases, free courses do not award a degree to participants and can, at best, only assist an individual when pursuing a Master’s degree in Neuroscience. Nevertheless, options such as free Neuropsychology courses can help students build a better understanding of such specializations or subjects and boost their academic performance. Here are a few free online neuroscience courses:
Course | Medical Neuroscience7 |
Provided by | Class Central |
Description | In this course, participants discover the organization of neural systems in the brain and spinal cord that mediate sensation, motivate bodily action, and integrate sensorimotor signals with memory, emotion, and related faculties of cognition. The overall goal is to provide the foundation for understanding impairments in sensation, action, and cognition accompanying central nervous system injury, disease, or dysfunction. |
Course | Diploma in Neurophysiology & Neuro-Instrumentation8 |
Provided by | Alison |
Description | This free online course explores the human brain and its role in enabling thinking, feeling, seeing, hearing, and speaking while controlling motor function and shaping behavior. Neurophysiology involves studying the central nervous system and its function. Neuro-instrumentation entails scanning, recording, and interpreting brain activity. |
Course | Advanced Diploma in Brain Behavior9 |
Provided by | Alison |
Description | This free online course provides a comprehensive understanding of how different parts of the brain collaborate to execute various mental processes, including thinking, learning, and decision-making. The course highlights diverse methodologies adopted by neuroscientists in studying activities within the human brain. |
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.
For most students, applying for a scholarship is the first option to pick for funding their higher education. Scholarships can be merit-based, alumnae-funded, privately awarded, or given out by cultural, religious, and commercial organizations. Typically, academic performance, community service, cultural heritage, religious affiliation, etc., form the basis for scholarships.
Note: Avoid being scammed and conned by reading about Scholarship Scams.
For students looking to cover their educational expenses such as study material, books, stationery, travel, accommodation, etc., a grant is an excellent option. Grants are often need-based and can pay for these expenses and tuition.
For Neuroscience studies, assistantships come in two flavors – Graduate Teaching Assistantships and Graduate Research Assistantships. A stipend is given to students who take up these assistantships, which can offset some of the cost of education.
Working on campus as a university employee is another viable funding mechanism for higher education. Students can work as part-time employees and earn money to cover some of their tuition fees or pay for educational expenses.
For those who do not mind paying interest, federal, bank, and private loans are good options for raising funds. However, borrowers should remember that late payments will increase student debt.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is a simple way of checking students’ eligibility for seeking aid. More information on FAFSA can be found here.
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:
The Novus Biologicals Scholarship Program is for students interested in pursuing their education in a science-related field. The scholarship is awarded twice a year to one student for the fall and spring semesters.
Award/ Amount: $1,500
Application Deadline: Twice a year
National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) supports graduate students in NSF-supported STEM disciplines pursuing research-based Master’s degrees at accredited colleges within the US.
Award/Amount: $37,000 for three years
Deadline: Varies
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:
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:
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:
The Neuroscience of learning studies how learning happens in the brain. It deals with understanding how the human memory encodes, consolidates, retrieves, and reconsolidates information, along with cognitive, linguistic, and behavioral functions that the brain handles.
Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences
International Academy for Professional Development (IAPD)
Class Central- Medical Neuroscience
Alison- Diploma in Neurophysiology & Neuro-Instrumentation
Alison- Advanced Diploma in Brain Behavior
Novus Biologicals Scholarship Program
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Physical Therapists
Salary.com- Neurodiagnostics Tech – EEG
Salary.com- Electroneurodiagnostic Technologist
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Physician Assistant
Certificate in Applied Neuroscience