University of New Brunswick

What you'll study

The neuroscience degree at UNB is an interdisciplinary science programme that covers molecular, cellular and systems-level perspectives on the nervous system. Core topics typically include neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, cellular and molecular neuroscience, synaptic function and plasticity, neuropharmacology, and sensory and motor systems. Students also take foundational courses in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics/statistics and research methods.

Programme structures commonly offer a combination of lectures, laboratory practicals, small-group seminars and supervised research projects. Typical modules and subjects you are likely to encounter include:

• Foundations of Biology and Genetics
• General and Organic Chemistry with associated labs
• Cell Biology and Molecular Techniques
• Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology
• Behavioural Neuroscience and Cognitive Neuroscience
• Biostatistics and Experimental Design
• Neuropharmacology and Neurodegeneration
• Research Methods, Ethics in Research and a capstone or honours thesis option

Students can often tailor their pathway with elective choices in computational neuroscience, developmental neuroscience, psychology, or biomedical engineering topics. Opportunities for independent research with faculty, laboratory internships and interdisciplinary collaborations are common components for students seeking honours or research-intensive experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to the undergraduate neuroscience programme at UNB typically requires a secondary/high school diploma with strong performance in science and mathematics. Recommended subjects include biology and chemistry, and often mathematics (pre-calculus or calculus) and English. Applicants who have completed college-level or post-secondary studies will be assessed on their transcript performance.

UNB also requires demonstration of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, using recognised tests or equivalent institutional assessments. Competitive applicants usually present strong grades in science courses; honours or research streams may have higher internal GPA thresholds once enrolled. Mature applicants and those with non-traditional backgrounds are considered on an individual basis.

Career prospects

Graduates with a neuroscience bachelor’s degree from UNB move into a wide range of careers. Typical pathways include:

• Laboratory research technician positions in academic or industrial settings
• Further study at graduate level (MSc/PhD) in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, psychology or related fields
• Health-related professions, including medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy and occupational therapy (following required professional prerequisites and admissions processes)
• Clinical research coordination, regulatory affairs and roles in pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies
• Data analysis, medical imaging support roles, science communication and teaching

The programme’s emphasis on quantitative methods, laboratory skills and critical thinking also prepares graduates for careers outside the laboratory where analytical and problem-solving skills are valued.

Why study at University of New Brunswick

UNB offers a supportive learning environment with access to research-active faculty and well-equipped laboratories within a medium-sized, research-focused university. Students benefit from small-group teaching in many advanced courses and opportunities to join faculty-led research projects across neuroscience, physiology and biomedical science.

The university’s connections to regional hospitals, research centres and industry partners create avenues for internships, collaborative projects and community-engaged learning. UNB also provides academic support services, undergraduate research funding opportunities and pathways to honours and postgraduate study, making it a strong choice for students aiming for research or professional careers in neuroscience.