John Hopkins University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in cellular and molecular biology, physiology, and the quantitative tools used to study nervous systems. Core topics typically include neuronal and synaptic physiology, developmental neurobiology, sensory and motor systems, cognitive and behavioural neuroscience, and neuropharmacology.

• Core science courses: general biology, molecular biology, genetics, organic chemistry and biochemistry to establish a biochemical and cellular framework.
• Neuroscience-specific courses: cellular/molecular neuroscience, systems neuroscience, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and cognitive neuroscience.
• Quantitative and computational skills: statistics, programming for data analysis, signal processing and, where available, courses in computational neuroscience or neural modelling.
• Laboratory experience: practical laboratory classes and methods courses that teach electrophysiology, imaging, molecular techniques and experimental design.
• Research and capstone: sustained independent research with a faculty mentor, seminars on primary literature, and often an honours thesis or senior project.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: psychology, cognitive science, biomedical engineering, public health, ethics and courses that permit students to tailor study to interests such as neurodevelopment, neurodegeneration, or neural engineering.

Entry requirements

Admission to Johns Hopkins University is competitive. Applicants should demonstrate strong achievement in college‑preparatory sciences and mathematics. Typical preparation includes high school biology, chemistry and physics, and coursework in algebra, precalculus or calculus.

• Academic record: highly competitive secondary‑school grades with emphasis on laboratory science and mathematics.
• Recommended subjects: biology, chemistry (including lab), physics and mathematics; advanced placement or IB courses are helpful if available.
• Skills and attributes: evidence of analytical ability, laboratory experience or science-related extracurricular engagement, and clear motivation for studying neuroscience.
• Application materials: standard undergraduate application components such as personal statement, recommendation letters and details of relevant coursework and experience; official test requirements reflect university policy.
• Transfer students: transfer applicants should have completed college-level science and mathematics courses and be prepared to satisfy major prerequisites at the home institution.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in neurobiology and neurosciences are well positioned for a variety of paths. Many proceed to graduate study or professional programmes; others enter industry or applied roles immediately after graduation.

• Academic and research careers: progression to PhD programmes in neuroscience, neurobiology, or related biomedical sciences; or research technician roles in university or private labs.
• Clinical and health professions: preparation for medical, dental, physician assistant or allied health training, supported by the programme’s strong emphasis on biological foundations.
• Industry and technology: roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, neurotechnology, and data science where understanding nervous-system biology and quantitative analysis is valuable.
• Other paths: science policy, science communication, education, and regulatory or clinical research coordination.

Why study at John Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins offers a research-intensive environment with close links between undergraduate teaching and leading biomedical research. Students benefit from access to faculty across the university and School of Medicine, opportunities to join active laboratories, and facilities for imaging, electrophysiology and molecular neuroscience.

• Research opportunities: extensive possibilities for mentored research projects, summer lab placements and interdisciplinary collaboration across departments.
• Clinical and translational links: proximity to Johns Hopkins Medicine and affiliated hospitals means exposure to clinical neuroscience and translational research initiatives.
• Interdisciplinary environment: strong partnerships with engineering, public health and psychology programmes that support specialisations like neural engineering or cognitive neuroscience.
• Student support: advising for pre‑health and research careers, student societies and seminar series that connect undergraduates with faculty and visiting scholars.