Neuroscience bridges basic discovery and applied solutions to solve some of society's most pressing questions - learn how you can study and be a part of this exciting community at Penn State.
Neuroscience is an exciting and fast-growing field that helps us understand how the brain works, and how it communicates with the body and the external environment—from the smallest molecules in our cells to complex behaviors like thinking, learning, and feeling. As a student interested in neuroscience, you can explore how the brain controls everything from movement and memory to emotions and decision-making, while also learning how these processes are changed in conditions like anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, or Alzheimer’s Disease. This field blends life sciences, social and behavioral sciences, liberal arts, engineering and medicine, giving you the opportunity to integrate classroom knowledge with impactful real-world hands-on research while working closely with the world’s leading experts in neuroscience. Whether you're interested in becoming a doctor, therapist, scientist, researcher, or just want to understand how the mind works, studying neuroscience gives you the tools to explore big questions and make a real impact on health and society.
At Penn State, we have multiple paths to achieve your goal in neuroscience. Below are summaries of three majors with a focus in this area: Neurobiology B.S., Systems Neuroscience B.S., or Psychology, Neuroscience Option B.S. Click the links to explore each path in more depth.
Neurobiology B.S.
Deep understanding of structure, function and cognition
The Neurobiology program provides a focus on the structure and function of the brain and nervous system, and how they play a role in the physiological and cognitive processes in animals. Neurobiology includes study of the nervous system from the molecular, cellular, functional, evolutionary, computational, and medical perspectives. Hands-on experiences, from designing and conducting lab experiments to using different techniques and instruments to recording and analyzing data, play an important role in gaining neurobiology knowledge. Students may study many aspects of the nervous system, including its role in development, learning and memory, sleep, aging, addiction, autism, and stress. The degree prepares students for careers in research and health.
Systems Neuroscience B.S.
Exploring the connection between function and behavior
The Systems Neuroscience program provides an interdisciplinary foundation in the study of the nervous system. Students will explore how the brain and nervous system function at multiple levels, from molecules and cells to behavior, cognition, and disease. Core coursework covers fundamental principles of neuroscience, including cellular and molecular neurobiology, neuroanatomy, and neurophysiology, and how these principles apply to neural systems that govern processes ranging from sensation and movement to behavior and complex cognition. A special focus will be placed on understanding how neural systems are involved in neurological dysfunction and disorders. The Systems Neuroscience program is designed to promote scholarly and professional growth, which can open opportunities for students to participate in neuroscience research conducted by faculty at Penn State.
Psychology B.S., Neuroscience Option
The brain’s role in thought, behavior, and experience
The Psychology, Neuroscience Option is designed for students who want to learn about behavior, normal and abnormal, how it is studied, and its relation to applied areas. Students are encouraged to conduct research with members of the faculty and/or take a practicum in an applied setting. Graduates are equipped for various positions in human service agencies, industrial settings, or laboratories. Others go on to professional school, e.g., medical school, law school, or to continue their training in psychology working toward a master's or a doctoral degree.
Interested in Undergraduate Research Opportunities?
Over 350 undergraduate students from across the university conduct research in neuroscience labs
To work with a faculty member in PSNI, just reach out!
