Beyond the Classroom: Neuroscience
Key Resources
Academic Advisors
Visit the NatSci Advising page for contact information and instructions for scheduling an appointment
Department Website
Visit the department website for important updates and information
Major Requirements
Visit the Office of the Registrar's website for detailed information about requirements
For students who wish to pursue a career in which a broad-based knowledge of the structure and function of the nervous system is necessary such as research, engineering, education, healthcare, law, or business. Also intended for students who seek admission to graduate programs in neuroscience, engineering, psychology/counseling, social work, public health, or other heath-related professional schools.
Skills and Competencies
- Scientific Thinking – Integrate scientific thinking with foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics to understand the nervous system
- Interdisciplinary Knowledge – Use biology, chemistry, and physics to explore the structure and function of the nervous system, exploring the domains of cellular, developmental, behavioral, and cognitive neuroscience
- Communication – Analyze and communicate scientific findings effectively to scientific peers, healthcare professionals, and the general public
This Major Could Be For You If:
- You want to learn about the nervous system: How it works, how it develops, and what happens when it doesn’t work
- You want to learn more than just the anatomy of the brain: Exploring cellular and molecular mechanisms driving behavior and cognition, chemicals that make up the nervous system, and connectivity of the nervous system
Common Questions
Do I have to go to graduate school?
Neuroscience graduates can find rewarding careers with a bachelor's degree. However, a graduate degree and/or a certificate program can open up additional career opportunities, and many graduates elect to pursue this additional education. Explore career pathways early and gain experience so you have a clear vision for your career after graduation.
What makes this major unique?
This major focuses on the molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms of the nervous system, providing an in-depth understanding of how neurons work together to regulate bodily functions, behavior, and cognition.
Skill Development
Building your skills takes exploration and experience. These opportunities below are options you may be interested in. These are ideas to get you started; you have the freedom to find what aligns with your goals.
Research Opportunities
- Consider faculty-directed research or off-campus summer programs
- Connect with the Undergraduate Research Office for assistance
Work-Based Learning
- Develop professional skills through on- or off- campus work or internships with the help of the Career Services Network
- Gain experience through volunteer work via the Center for Community Engaged Learning
Career Growth
- Engage with NatSci’s Career Exploration workshops and resources
Campus Involvement
- Connect with other students in clubs like the Neuroscience Club
Education Abroad Ideas
Foundations of Neuroscience in Italy & the UK
- 5 weeks | Summer
- Faculty Led
Arcadia Research Abroad (Various Locations)
- 6-8 weeks | Summer
- Direct Enroll
To get started with Education Abroad and to explore other programs that suit your goals, check out the MSU Education Abroad website or visit the Education Abroad Advising Center.
Career Exploration
Career exploration is all about discovering the paths that align with your interests, personality, lifestyle, values and skills. Remember, your major doesn’t define your career, and the career cluster examples provided are just a starting point—not an exhaustive list. Explore widely, and keep an open mind as you shape your future!
Healthcare Professions
Careers
- Physician, Dentist, Optometrist, Pharmacist
- Physician’s Assistant
- Allied Health Roles
- Neurophysiologist
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Counseling
- Clinical Psychology
Key Employers
- Hospitals
- Private Practice
- Clinics
- Colleges or universities
- Medical Schools
- Health networks
- Mental health institutions
- Federal, state, and local health departments
- Rehabilitation centers
- Nursing homes
Strategies
- Prepare for and plan to complete medical school or other graduate programs
- Connect with MSU’s pre-heath advising team early to prepare
- Join and engage in related student organizations
- Seek hands on experience to refine career goals and become a competitive candidate
- Consider taking courses in communication, psychology, and more for mental health related careers
Business & Public Health
Careers
- Biostatistician
- Community Health Analyst
- Program & Policy Analyst
- Sales Representative
- Biotech Account Executive
- Sourcing Manager
Key Employers
- Healthcare Systems and Hospitals
- Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies
- Public Health Departments
- Government Health Agencies
- Medical Device Companies
- Consulting Firms
- Market Research Firms
- Health Insurance Companies
Strategies
- Join student organizations that focus on public health initiatives or community health promotion
- Consider taking elective courses or minoring in sales, marketing, public policy, and more
- Develop strong written and verbal communication skills
Research & Laboratory Work
Careers
- Research scientist
- Laboratory technician
- Grant administrator
- Pharmaceutical technician
- Neuropharmacologist
Key Employers
- Research institutions
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Biotechnology firms
- Universities and colleges
- Government research agencies
- Private research laboratories
Strategies
- Gain laboratory experience through coursework and faculty-led research projects
- Consider taking advanced courses in biochemistry, pharmacology, and molecular biology
- Develop strong technical writing skills for grant proposals and research papers
Looking for more options?