Neuroscience focuses on the evolution, structure, and functioning of the nervous system to behavioral patterns. It covers various aspects of cells, neuroanatomy, physiology, molecular, and developmental biology. Additionally, it focuses on developmental neuroscience, clinical and psychological neuroscience, diseases and disorders affecting the nervous system.
If the study of the nervous system, the brain, and cells sounds interesting to you, then a degree in neuroscience is best for you. Read on for more information on the course, specializations, and possible career paths.
Neuroscience seeks to understand the structure, function, and development of the brain and nervous system. Students gain insights into possible therapies for neural diseases and disorders. The study involves research that aims to develop an effective treatment for neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, stroke, trauma, and toxicity. It explores the brain and different treatment methods for mental illnesses and neurodegenerative diseases.
Students learn about mental wellbeing and healthy human behavior, which can help develop artificial intelligence. They get to understand how humans learn and function. Moreover, they cover recent advances in neuroimaging, molecular and cell biology, bioinformatics, and systems neuroscience.
Being a multidisciplinary course, students cover topics from a range of other fields such as neurology, psychology, anatomy, and psychiatry. Students learn how discoveries in biomedical science have advanced medicine and science as well as gain a foundational understanding of the biomedical and non-biomedical sciences.
In most universities, neuroscience courses are available under the Bachelor of Science Degree. Find the best universities for a neuroscience degree here.u00a0
Students wishing to study neuroscience require a strong background in high school biology or chemistry. Moreover, a background in electronics, biology, chemistry, geology, geography, human biology, physics, mathematics, computer science, or psychology is an added advantage.u00a0
Applicants must also demonstrate a level of English competency that enables them to succeed in their studies regardless of country of origin.
Neuroscience programs provide students with multiple areas of specialization. Moreover, the course spans across various disciplines such as biochemistry, biology, mathematics, engineering, and computer science, which ignites studentsu2019 interests and breaks the monotony.
Typically, the first and second school years focus on equipping students with an overview and foundation in the subject. Later, students can specialize in specific areas within the field, depending on their interests. Some of the topics youu2019re most likely going to cover:
Here are some specializations:
Molecular/Cellular neuroscience
This subfield examines mechanisms related to the biological processes of the nervous systemu2019s neurons and support cells. The cellular and molecular neuroscientist study communication between neurons, how they function, and their anatomy and physiology.
Systems/behavioral neuroscience
This program tries to understand the mechanisms that cause behavior and how neurons work together. The systems and behavioral neuroscientists study the relationship between the nervous system and psychiatric or psychological disorders. They explore how neuron groups form neural networks related to functions such as attention, learning and sleep cycles. They also examine the effects of dysregulation of these systems.u00a0
Computational neuroscience
This program studies the intricate biophysics of neurons. Students explore the complexity of neural systems and how they apply to computer science approaches and mathematical modeling. The computational neuroscientists study computational models, investigate aspects critical to communication, neuronal function, and behavior.u00a0
Translational and clinical neuroscience
Translational and clinical neuroscientists study new therapeutics to treat degenerative, developmental, and psychiatric disorders. They test disease progression theories, examine the relationship between neuroscience findings and disease states, and develop putative therapy strategies.
Cognitive and behavioral neuroscience
This course studies the brain and how it gives rise to emotions, thoughts, and sense of self. Students explore how the brain makes decisions, learns, keeps memories, and pays attention. The cognitive and behavioral scientists study the neural substrates causing these mental processes. They also explore the reaction when neurological disorders get disrupted.u00a0 In this field, students focus on trying to understand how the brain uses the information to produce language, memories and other mental processes.
Cultural neuroscience
This field looks at how practices, beliefs, and cultural values shape the brain, genes, and mind over time.
Developmental neuroscience
The developmental neuroscientists study the nervous system and how it develops on a cellular basis. They also explore the underlying mechanisms involved in neural development.
Neuro-engineering
The neuro-engineering program focuses on the use of technology to understand, replace, improve, and repair neural systems.u00a0
Neuroscience majors can venture into a variety of neuroscience jobs in various fields within the medicine and education sectors. Below is a list of some of these career paths:
1. Neurosurgeons
Neurosurgeons treat nervous system conditions. They treat illnesses, injuries, and diseases affecting the spinal cord, brain, and peripheral nerves through surgery. They also provide suggestions about the prevention of medical issues, diet requirements, and hygiene.
2. Physician
Physicians or medical doctors examine and diagnose patients. This branch of neuroscience refers to various medical practitioners, including general and family doctors. They treat a variety of conditions and illnesses.
3. Research scientists
Research scientists perform experiments and analyze data to understand and improve human health. They spend most of their time conducting research and applying for funding and grants. They work under supervision from academic institutions or research organizations and publish their findings in academic journals.
4. Medical writers
Medical writers create manuals, academic papers, and training materials. They are often required to write documents in a way patients or clients can understand. They conduct interviews, meet with staff, and assist in writing medication commercials.
5. Natural science managers
Natural science managers assist business executives. They strategize and determine goals researchers and developers need to follow. They oversee equipment and funding for the completion of projects as well as to conduct interviews and hire new staff or scientists. Additionally, they ensure staff and scientists follow procedures through monitoring of laboratory operations.
6. Sales representatives
Sales representatives are individuals not interested in going the scientific way after studying neuroscience. They work for biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies to sell their products or medical services to doctors, hospitals, or physicians.
7. Counselor
Substance abuse and behavior disorder counselors attend to people struggling with substance addiction. They also work with individuals with other behavioral problems such as to conduct disorder, attention deficit disorder, and eating disorders. They evaluate the mental health of patients and offer diagnoses when needed. Additionally, they work with the families of patients to devise treatment plans, build relationships and help them cope with recovery. However, to thrive in this career path an additional Masteru2019s degree in psychology and counseling may be required.
8. Neuroimaging technician
Neuroimaging technicians produce brain medical images using various tests like positron emission tomography (PET), computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). They are responsible for handling and maintaining brain-scanning technologies. They also collect and organize data, use neuroimaging software to process images, and assist in brain analysis.
9. Genetic counselors
Genetic counselors explore genetics to identify inherited conditions like gene-related conditions and congenital disabilities in patients. Working with healthcare providers, they assess and find risks in the inherited genetic diseases. However, obtaining an additional Masteru2019s Degree in Genetics or Genetic Counseling is an added advantage.
10. Speech-language pathologists
Speech-language pathologists work with patients struggling with swallowing or communication disorders. Speech therapists evaluate speech, swallowing ability, and language. They diagnose, prevent, and treat patients with these disorders. Some speech therapists have private practices, while others work in hospitals and schools.
11. Surgical neurophysiologist
Surgical neurophysiologist works closely with surgeons, anesthetists, and other surgery team members. The neurophysiologist monitors and tests the nervous system during surgery. They help the surgeons avoid or reduce complications like hearing loss, paralysis or stroke. They do this by detecting the injury in time to ameliorate or prevent complications. They also provide information that helps the surgeon during intraoperative decision making.
12. Psychologists
Psychologists treat patients using non-drug therapies. They mostly use psychotherapy treatment and, in most countries, cannot prescribe drugs. Most psychologists have private practices or provide mental health services to employees and students. Others work as forensic psychologists and help law enforcement agencies.
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