Emory University

What you'll study

Core coursework establishes a foundation in molecular, cellular and systems neuroscience, while elective options allow specialisation. Typical topics and modules include:

• Neural Anatomy and Physiology – structure and functional organisation of the central and peripheral nervous systems, neural signalling and synaptic function.
• Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience – gene expression, neurodevelopment, ion channels, intracellular signalling and neurodegeneration mechanisms.
• Systems and Circuit Neuroscience – sensory processing, motor systems, neural networks and computational approaches to circuit function.
• Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience – neural substrates of learning, memory, emotion and decision-making, including animal and human paradigms.
• Neuropharmacology and Neuropathology – effects of drugs on neural systems and pathophysiology of common neurological and psychiatric conditions.
• Research Methods and Data Analysis – experimental design, statistics, imaging techniques (e.g. MRI, optical imaging), electrophysiology and programming for data processing.
• Laboratory Rotation and Thesis Research – supervised laboratory placements leading to an independent research project and thesis under a faculty mentor.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, typically in biology, neuroscience, psychology, biomedical engineering or a closely related field. Competitive candidates usually demonstrate strong academic performance in foundational courses such as cellular biology, physiology, calculus/statistics and introductory neuroscience. Application materials generally include:

• Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Letters of recommendation, preferably from academic referees familiar with the applicant’s research or laboratory experience.
• A personal statement outlining research interests, prior experience and career goals.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé summarising laboratory skills, publications or presentations, if applicable.

Some applicants may also have to submit standardized test scores depending on programme policies and international applicant requirements. Practical laboratory experience or prior research is highly advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a variety of roles in research, healthcare-related industries and education. Common pathways include:

• Research technician or associate positions in academic, government or industry laboratories.
• Progression to PhD programmes in neuroscience, neurobiology or related biomedical sciences.
• Roles in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, including drug development and preclinical research.
• Clinical research coordination, regulatory affairs or science policy roles where a strong grounding in neuroscience is required.
• Science communication, education and outreach positions linked to public engagement with neuroscience topics.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers access to a vibrant neuroscience community anchored by the School of Medicine and affiliated research centres. Students benefit from collaborative labs across basic and clinical departments, opportunities to work with advanced imaging and electrophysiology facilities, and mentorship from faculty conducting translational research. Proximity to major public health institutions and a network of hospitals supports clinically informed projects and internship possibilities that enhance employability and prepare students for doctoral training or industry careers.