Pace University

What you'll study

The programme provides a blend of core biological sciences, focused neuroscience courses and hands-on laboratory training. Early years establish a solid foundation in general biology, chemistry, physics and calculus, then progress to specialised topics such as cellular and molecular neuroscience, neurophysiology, systems and behavioural neuroscience, and cognitive neuroscience.

• Core modules: Principles of Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics for Life Sciences, Calculus/Statistics for the Life Sciences.
• Foundational neuroscience: Neuroanatomy, Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, Neurophysiology, Developmental Neuroscience.
• Advanced and applied topics: Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience, Behavioural Neuroscience, Neuropharmacology, Neuroimaging methods.
• Research and laboratory training: Laboratory Methods in Neuroscience, Electrophysiology, Molecular Techniques, Bioinformatics/Computational Neuroscience elective options.
• Capstone/independent research: Senior seminar or honours thesis project working with faculty on original research or an applied laboratory project.
• Interdisciplinary electives: Psychology, Computer Science (data analysis, machine learning), Biochemistry, Ethics in Neuroscience, and clinical observation placements where available.

Students typically combine classroom instruction with supervised lab work and are encouraged to participate in faculty-led research, summer internships or clinical placements in the New York City region.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification with evidence of strong preparation in science and mathematics. Recommended high-school subjects include biology, chemistry and mathematics; physics is advantageous. Admissions review typically considers the overall academic record, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Pace operates a holistic admissions process and has a test-optional policy for standardised tests; check the university’s admissions pages for the current testing policy.

Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate curiosity about neuroscience, readiness for rigorous laboratory coursework, and commitment to research or clinical experience where possible. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and course descriptions for evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme are prepared for a range of postgraduate pathways and careers. Common next steps include entry to graduate study (MSc/PhD) in neuroscience, biomedical research, or professional health programmes (MD, DO, PA, clinical psychology), often after completing prerequisite clinical coursework where required.

• Research technician or laboratory assistant in academic, hospital or industry labs.
• Clinical research coordinator or study manager in hospitals and contract research organisations.
• Roles in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, such as preclinical research, regulatory affairs or clinical trial support.
• Data-oriented roles leveraging quantitative training, including bioinformatics, neuroinformatics and data analysis positions.
• Science communication, public health and policy roles related to brain health and neurological disorders (often requiring additional experience or graduate qualifications).

Many careers require further training or certification; the programme is designed to provide the scientific grounding and practical experience that employers and graduate programmes expect.

Why study at Pace University

Pace offers the advantages of a research-focused undergraduate experience combined with proximity to New York City’s medical centres, research hospitals and biotech companies. Students benefit from small class sizes, direct faculty mentorship and access to modern teaching and research laboratories on Pace’s campuses.

• Opportunities for internships, clinical observation and collaborative research with institutions in New York City and the surrounding region.
• Faculty with active research programmes who supervise undergraduate projects and provide pathways into presentational and publication opportunities.
• Interdisciplinary training that connects neuroscience with psychology, computer science and biochemistry, preparing students for diverse career paths.
• Support services including career counselling, internship placement assistance and workshops to prepare for graduate/professional school applications.

Overall, the programme is suited to students who want rigorous scientific training, hands-on laboratory experience and direct connections to clinical and research opportunities in a major metropolitan area.