The Neuroscience Undergraduate Program is an interdisciplinary major spearheaded by the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Medicine. Our coursework is designed to capture the breadth of the field and prepare knowledgeable, innovative thinkers. The Ohio State University is home to over 100 neuroscience faculty members conducting scholarly research in many sub-disciplines, including molecular, cellular, systems, behavioral, cognitive, and computational neuroscience. Our major capitalizes on the expertise and breadth of this renowned faculty group with members from 6 different colleges and many departments (Neuroscience, Psychology, Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Genetics, Evolutionary Biology, Computer Science, and Speech and Hearing Science). As a neuroscience major, you will benefit from being taught by the world-class faculty, which generates groundbreaking results described in your textbooks and classes. You will also have opportunities to conduct research, attend conferences, and even publish research articles with these faculty members.
A degree in Neuroscience provides a strong foundation for many rewarding career paths. These include graduate work in Neuroscience and related disciplines and professional programs in medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, veterinary science, and law. In addition, a rigorous BS degree in the life sciences, prepares you for employment in several areas, including positions in hospital or research laboratories, health services, and pharmaceutical sales. The critical thinking, time management, and interpersonal skills you gain as a Neuroscience major will prepare you for many career paths you choose to pursue.
The expert advising staff and faculty of the Neuroscience major look forward to helping you proceed through your academic program. Please feel free to contact us with any questions about our Neuroscience degree program.
- What are the prerequisites for admission into the pre-neuroscience program?
Once you have been admitted to The Ohio State University, you will work closely with a Neuroscience Academic Advisor to develop a plan to complete the Pre-Major and Major coursework in a timely manner. Follow the link below for more information about the curriculum associated with the major: https://neurosciencemajor.osu.edu/curriculum
- I am considering transferring to OSU; what steps can I take to make the processes easier?
Make sure to work closely with your academic and transfer credit advisors at your home institution and at OSU. These professionals can help ensure that you are taking courses that will cleanly transfer and count toward requirements at both institutions.
- Which AP/IB classes should I take?
AP/IB classes are very good preparation for OSU’s courses so do not be deterred from taking them. Many of our incoming students do use their AP/IB credit to fulfill some of their General Education (GE) requirements including introductory psychology, history, writing, etc. OSU's guide for credit by examination can be found here.
- Which classes should I take in high school to prepare?
Neuroscience is a biological science so coursework in biology, mathematics, psychology, and chemistry can be very helpful. In addition, courses that focus on writing and critical analysis of fiction/nonfiction will provide a solid foundation for scientific study.
- Will a major in neuroscience help me to get into medical school?
Professional schools generally do not care what your undergraduate major is. OSU Medical School’s entering class of 2015 included students majoring in neuroscience, drama, finance, and music. A major in neuroscience will provide students with a broad scientific literacy and critical thinking skills that may be applied to medicine or other demanding fields.
- Will my credits transfer?
Please visit transferology.com and the OSU Registrar's website to determine if your credits will transfer.
- What can I do with a degree in neuroscience?
Please visit our Careers Page for some examples of careers that people do with a degree in neuroscience.
- Can I make an appointment to speak with an advisor?
Yes! Please provide your general availability here. We are able to meet students from 8am to 5pm Monday-Friday.