Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience

• Students get hands-on lab experience all four years starting with core skills and moving to advanced experimental research methods used in neuroscience today
• Dive into research projects you are passionate about such as prosthetics, games, and machine learning with peers in the student-led Neurotechnology Exploration Club
• Neuroscience at RIT is an interdisciplinary collaboration between the College of Science and the Department of Psychology in the College of Liberal Arts, mixing critical coursework from both fields. Neuroscience projects may also include collaborations with information technology, computer engineering, motion picture science, and the National Technical Institute for the Deaf.
• Active neuroscience research laboratories focus on comparative cognition, psychopathology, color perception, facial perception, and multisensory integration in VR/AR.

If you are drawn to questioning how we think, how we learn, and how understanding the systems in our brains can help change the world, then it’s time to consider RIT’s neuroscience BS. Major advancements in the field are expected in the coming years, and this degree in neuroscience will put you at the forefront of innovation.

Neuroscience as a Major

Neuroscience is applied to a vast array of industries, including the rapidly developing field of artificial intelligence (AI). At the intersection of science, technology, and innovation, RIT is uniquely positioned to offer students a rich background in programming and computing as well as access to AI research projects to prepare for this booming field. 

Study of the brain is also essential for understanding and combating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Experts in neuroscience are at the forefront of treating mental illnesses and learning disabilities. With the combination of program electives and the opportunity to create your own track, you have the flexibility to design a neuroscience degree that will prepare you for admission to dental, medical, or optometry professional programs.

RIT’s Degree in Neuroscience

RIT’s flexible neuroscience BS involves the collaboration of the College of Science and the College of Liberal Arts to provide you with a multidisciplinary opportunity to study the brain while developing your background knowledge in the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Graduates will be prepared for a multitude of professional careers and pre-professional programs.

Course of Study

Students may choose from three track options based on your course preferences and career goals: neurobiology, computational neuroscience, and behavioral neuroscience. In addition to tracks, program electives make it possible for a double major or twin minor to be completed by students who wish to do so. The track courses and program electives allow students to expand their knowledge in intersecting subfields of neuroscience such as biology, cognitive science, health science, psychology, and computing. 

The lab requirements provide experience in the practical use of the equipment and methods used in the field of neuroscience today. This background gives graduates from this program a leg up when entering the workforce or continuing education.

Neuroscience Capstone 

You will be required to participate in a two-semester Capstone in your final year of study to enhance your skills in technical communication and scientific research practices. You will research, write, and present a proposal for an independent research project.

Neuroscience BS Tracks

Neurobiology: Neurobiology track explores the branch of life sciences that deals with the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the nervous system. Neurobiology centers around the study of nerve cells and the organization of these cells into functional circuits that process information and mediate behavior. Develop an in-depth understanding of how information is processed and stored in the brain and the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neural functioning.

Computational Neuroscience: Computational neuroscience track prepares students to use mathematical modeling and computer simulations together with the theories and experimentally gained knowledge of how the brain works to understand the principles that underlie perception, cognition, learning and other processes in the nervous system. Computational neuroscience addresses the relationship between neuroscience and artificial intelligence (AI). The development of artificial neural networks was inspired by studying brain function. AI researchers aim to emulate human intelligence by building models and developing biologically-inspired architectures that can make decisions and solve problems in the same way that humans do. Artificial intelligence is also increasingly used as a research tool in neuroscience to advance our understanding of how the human brain works. For example, by analyzing data on brain activity acquired using neuroimaging techniques, machine learning is used to uncover the patterns in brain activity and link them to specific cognitive and motor actions.

Behavioral Neuroscience: Behavioral neuroscience track focuses on the relationship between behavior and behavioral science such as psychology and neuroscience. Behavioral neuroscience examines what is happening in the brain and the behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that are associated with those processes. A range of topics are studied in this field including learning and memory, motivation, emotion, and sensory processes.

Careers in Neuroscience

A BS degree in neuroscience is versatile and students can apply their knowledge to a variety of industries. Graduates are well qualified for positions as research analysts, forensic science technicians, lab managers, neuroradiology technicians, pharmaceutical sales representatives, patient care assistants, science writers, neurotechnologists, data science specialists, and AI research associates. Those interested in advanced study can continue their education in graduate degree programs. Some typical job titles for those with advanced degrees include clinical psychologist, physician, speech-language pathologist, machine learning research scientist, occupational therapist, audiologist, AI systems engineer, public policy consultant, medical research scientist, MRI technician, lawyer, and neuroeconomist.

Premedical and Health Professions Advisory Program

Medical schools and graduate programs in the health professions (such as physician assistants, physical therapy, and occupational therapy) welcome applications from students majoring in a wide range of academic programs. Acceptance into these programs requires the completion of pre-med requirements such as course work in biological and physical sciences, a strong academic record, pertinent experiences in the field, and key intrapersonal and interpersonal capabilities. Learn more about how RIT’s Premedical and Health Professions Advisory Program can help you become a competitive candidate for admission to graduate programs in the medical and health professions.

Pre-Vet Advising Program

Occupations in veterinary medicine are expected to grow three times faster than all other occupations between 2016 and 2026. If you’re interested in caring for animals, conducting research related to animal illnesses, or working with livestock in university or government settings, the Pre-Vet Advising Program can help you reach your career goals. Learn more about RIT’s personalized Pre-Vet Advising Program and how it can help you maximize your candidacy for admission to veterinary schools.

Pre-Law Advising Program

Law schools welcome applications from students majoring in a wide range of academic programs. If you are interested in pursuing law school, RIT’s Pre-Law Advising Program is designed to maximize your chances of admission to law school. The program includes personalized advising, LSAT preparation, academic counseling, and a time table for law school admission.

https://www.rit.edu/study/neuroscience-bs