Program Overview
The master’s in neuroscience at the University of Kansas provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of neuroscience.
This interdisciplinary neuroscience master’s program offers two unique tracks, allowing students to choose the path that best aligns with their career goals: one focused on neuroscience research and another designed for students interested in clinical or translational applications. By the time you graduate, you’ll be prepared to contribute to cutting-edge research or work in a variety of healthcare and biomedical settings.
KU’s MS in Neurosciences is a comprehensive program that bridges the gap between research and clinical practice. Whether you’re interested in advancing scientific understanding of the brain or pursuing a career in healthcare, the master’s in neuroscience provides a strong foundation in neurobiology, pharmacology, cellular and molecular neuroscience, and systems neuroscience. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for professionals trained in neuroscience research and application across academic, industry, and clinical environments.
There are two versions of the MS in Neurosciences at KU:
Research Track: Focuses on laboratory-based neuroscience research and prepares students for doctoral study or careers in academic, government, or industry research settings.
Clinical Track: Tailored for those interested in applying neuroscience knowledge in clinical, health-related, or translational research settings, including hospitals and medical centers.
Students in the master’s in neuroscience benefit from collaboration between the KU School of Medicine and the KU School of Pharmacy, gaining exposure to interdisciplinary faculty expertise across pharmacology, toxicology, physiology, and neuroscience research. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, preparing students for careers in academia, biotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences, and healthcare research.
- Access to advanced neuroscience research laboratories and core facilities
- Mentorship from faculty engaged in funded neuroscience research
- Integration of foundational science with applied and translational research
- Opportunities for research collaboration across campuses
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KU School of Pharmacy and School of Medicine
The Master’s in Neurosciences is offered through the School of Pharmacy and School of Medicine.Master’s in Neurosciences Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the master’s in neuroscience program will be able to:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the cellular, molecular, and systems-level mechanisms underlying nervous system function and dysfunction.
- Design, conduct, and interpret independent neuroscience research using appropriate experimental and analytical methods.
- Critically evaluate scientific literature in neuroscience and related biomedical disciplines.
- Apply neuroscience principles to translational or clinical research challenges.
- Communicate complex neuroscience concepts and research findings effectively to scientific, clinical, and general audiences in written and oral formats.
What Careers Are Possible with a Master’s in Neurosciences?
The demand for graduates of neuroscience master’s programs continues to grow across research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, and clinical research environments. Students completing the master’s in neuroscience are prepared for roles in academic research laboratories, government agencies, healthcare systems, and life sciences companies. Some potential career paths include:
Neuroscientist
Clinical Research Coordinator
Biomedical Research Specialist
Research Technician or Laboratory Manager
Many graduates of the master’s in neuroscience choose to pursue doctoral education in neuroscience or related biomedical sciences, while others enter the workforce directly in research-intensive roles.
For additional labor market insights and salary data related to degrees in neuroscience, students may explore resources available through KU and Lightcast.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, assistantships, and loans, to help make your education more affordable. The tuition for the MS in Neurosciences program is competitive, and KU is committed to providing resources for students to fund their education.
For more details on tuition, financial aid, and assistantships, please visit KU Financial Aid.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students of the masters in neuroscience program must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution documented by submission of official transcript. Official transcripts from institutions attended post-baccalaureate are also required.
- Students with degrees from outside the U.S. may be subject to transcript evaluation indicating the degree is equivalent to a U.S. degree and meets the minimum cumulative GPA requirements.
- A cumulative GPA of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the bachelor’s degree.
- A background check is required during the admission process.
- An official copy of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Prerequisite coursework in general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, biological sciences, calculus and physics.
- Research experience (beyond labs associated with lecture courses) is strongly suggested.
For full admission details, visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in the master’s in neuroscience engage in hands-on laboratory training and collaborative research across KU’s biomedical research community. The program provides access to advanced instrumentation, core facilities, and interdisciplinary research seminars.
Because the program draws faculty from both the School of Medicine and the School of Pharmacy, students benefit from exposure to diverse research perspectives spanning pharmacology, toxicology, molecular neuroscience, and systems neuroscience. This integrated structure strengthens both research-focused and clinically oriented learning.
Beyond the laboratory, students participate in seminars, journal clubs, and professional development workshops designed to prepare graduates of neuroscience master’s programs for research careers or doctoral study. The KU academic environment encourages collaboration, networking, and leadership development through campus organizations and research symposia.
Master’s in Neurosciences Sample Courses
Below are a few representative courses offered within the master’s in neuroscience curriculum:
- Introduction to Biomedical Research
- Cell Communication
- Scientific Papers in Neuroscience
- Research in Neuroscience
For a full list of courses, please refer to the KU Catalog.
Master’s in Neurosciences Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.
Is the degree available remote and on campus?
The degree is available on-campus