Program Description

Application Requirements

Program-Specific Instructions

Neuroscience, PhD

Overview

The PhD in Neuroscience focuses on the relationship between the cellular and molecular functions of the nervous system and behavior. The program provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the brain across multiple levels of organization.

Program Benefits

Students are prepared to contribute at the forefront of neuroscience research in academia, industry, and government. The program fosters a rich intellectual environment that supports the development of skills necessary for successful research careers.

Curriculum Structure

• Interdisciplinary coursework in neuroscience and related fields
• Training in cellular, molecular, and systems-level approaches to brain function
• Opportunities to engage in collaborative and cross-disciplinary research
• Independent research culminating in a doctoral dissertation

Research Areas

• Behavior, anatomy, and physiology
• Neuropharmacology and molecular biology
• Computational modeling and informatics
• Topics ranging from subcellular processes (e.g., addiction, neurological disorders) to systems and behavioral neuroscience

Research Environment

Faculty collaborate with federal agencies, private and nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions. Students participate in research spanning molecular to behavioral levels, gaining exposure to diverse methodologies and applications.

Program Format

• Research-intensive program with interdisciplinary focus
• Designed to prepare students for careers in academia, government, and industry

English Proficiency Requirements

All Mason students must have a full command of academic English to be successful in their studies. For this reason, Mason requires applicants to demonstrate English proficiency for admission consideration, regardless of citizenship. Click here to view the requirements.

International Transcript Requirements

All transcripts from colleges or universities outside the United States must be translated into English, if applicable, and submitted for evaluation to the Mason Office of Admissions. Mason will provide evaluation service free of charge for all international transcripts, however, some programs may request an outside evaluation be completed. Because of volume, more time may be needed to process applications requiring a Mason evaluation. You should submit your application 6 weeks prior to the deadline if you plan to utilize Mason’s free evaluation service. For expedited service, students may submit their documents to any NACES member organization at their own expense. If you decide to use an external evaluation service or if your program requires an outside evaluation, GPA and Degree equivalences must be included with your course-by-course evaluation. Mason evaluations are used for internal purposes and are not released to applicants. For information on international transcript requirements, go here.