Georgetown University

What you'll study

The Neurobiology and Neurosciences degree at Georgetown builds a foundation in molecular and cellular biology, systems neuroscience and behaviour while emphasising quantitative skills and experimental design. Early coursework typically covers general biology, chemistry and calculus, and students then progress to dedicated neuroscience modules such as neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, synaptic and cellular mechanisms, sensory systems, learning and memory, and cognitive neuroscience. Many programmes also include statistics for biological sciences, computational methods for analysing neural data, and ethics in neuroscience.

Teaching combines lectures, small seminars and laboratory courses. Lab components train students in core techniques — microscopy, electrophysiology basics, molecular biology methods and behavioural assays — and students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects under faculty supervision. The curriculum is typically flexible, allowing electives that cross into psychology, computer science, biomedical engineering, or philosophy of mind, and many students complete capstone projects or honours theses that synthesise experimental work and literature analysis.

Typical modules and subjects

• Introductory Biology and Laboratory Techniques
• General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry (with labs)
• Calculus and Biostatistics
• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology
• Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience
• Computational Neuroscience or Data Analysis for Neuroscience
• Research Methods and Experimental Design in Neuroscience
• Ethics, Law and Policy in Neurobiology

Entry requirements

Admission to Georgetown is competitive and based on a holistic review of academic preparation, extracurricular engagement and personal qualities. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong performance in high school science and mathematics courses, including biology, chemistry and calculus or advanced mathematics. Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or other recognised advanced coursework in sciences is favourably considered.

International applicants must meet the university's standards for secondary school completion and provide proof of English proficiency if required. Typical supporting materials include a secondary school transcript, academic references, and a personal statement; applicants who have undertaken research experience, science internships or healthcare volunteering strengthen their applications. Specific GPA ranges, test policies and additional requirements are available from the university’s admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates of a neurobiology and neuroscience programme follow a range of careers in research, healthcare, industry and policy. Common pathways include:

• Graduate study and research in neuroscience, psychology, molecular biology or related fields (master’s and PhD programmes)
• Clinical professions such as medicine, dentistry or allied health (graduates frequently use the degree as preparation for professional schools)
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry roles including research assistant, clinical research coordinator or regulatory affairs
• Data science and computational roles that leverage quantitative and analytical training
• Science policy, science communication, education and non‑profit sectors focused on neuroscience issues

Many students combine research experience and internships gained during their degree with pre‑professional advising to enter competitive graduate or professional training programmes.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown offers neuroscience students a liberal‑arts education within a research‑active environment and the advantages of its location in Washington, D.C. Students benefit from access to a range of laboratory groups and research projects, opportunities for clinical observation and internships with nearby hospitals, research institutes and policy organisations, and close faculty mentorship in small seminars and lab settings.

The university’s interdisciplinary approach encourages students to combine neuroscience with neighbouring disciplines such as computer science, psychology, philosophy and public policy, preparing graduates for diverse careers. In addition, Georgetown provides structured pre‑health advising, research placement support, and career services that help translate academic training into postgraduate study or employment.