Neuroscientists

High School

In high school take as many science classes as possible, including biology, microbiology, chemistry, and anatomy and physiology. Other recommended courses include psychology, statistics, data science, English, speech, health, and computer science.

Postsecondary Education

There are two educational paths for aspiring neuroscientists. Those who want to conduct research, but not treat patients as medical doctors, should first earn a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience or a related field and then a Ph.D. in neuroscience and a postdoctoral fellowship. Typical classes in an undergraduate neuroscience program include Biology, Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Data Analysis, Molecular Biology, Introduction to Neuroscience, Neurobiology, Neuroethics, Psychology, Statistics, and Introduction to Computational Neuroscience. It should be noted that some people stop their educational training after earning a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, and work in basic science positions.

Those who wish to do clinical work and treat patients must earn a medical degree and complete a medical residency. Many students who pursue this educational route also participate in a postdoctoral fellowship to obtain additional experience.

Certification

Certificate programs in neuroscience are offered by colleges and universities and private, for-profit education companies. For example, the University of Pennsylvania offers an online certificate in neuroscience. Students must first complete Introduction to Neuroscience, and then complete three of the following courses: The Neuroscience of Music; Behavioral Neuroscience; Hormones, Brain, and Behavior; Autonomic Pharmacology; and Psychopharmacology. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

The International Youth Neuroscience Association offers a Neuro& Careers Certificate Track in which students can earn one of three certificates—Career Explorer, Career Navigator, or Career Pathfinder—by attending a specified number of webinars. Visit https://www.youthneuro.org/neuroandcareer.html for more information.

Other Education or Training

Participating in continuing education in-person classes and webinars is a great way to keep your skills up to date and learn about new developments in neuroscience. Educational opportunities are offered by professional associations and colleges and universities. For example, the Society for Neuroscience offers in-person classes and virtual courses on emerging topics and research techniques in neuroscience. Recent classes included Neural Prosthetics and Brain Machine Interfaces; Data Science and Data Skills for Neuroscientists; and Intersection Between Brain and Immune System in Health and Disease. Contact the society for more information.