Neuroscience PhD
Understanding the Brain-Body Connection
The Neuroscience PhD Program at Penn State College of Medicine brings together scientists from different basic and clinical disciplines to focus on the nervous system. We do so with a strong emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion. To increase access to our program for all students, espe 5ad cially from underserved communities, we removed GRE requirements for application to our program in 2019.
Some researchers seek to clarify the development or function of the brain at the cellular, molecular, or genetic levels. Others seek to understand how the nervous system processes information, controls autonomic functions, regulates states of consciousness, or determines behavior. Still others search for the means to diagnose, prevent, and successfully treat malignant brain tumors, congenital and acquired brain diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, or dysfunctions caused by pathologic states in brain structure. All are committed to educate graduate students in the neurosciences in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Get in Touch
Interested in our Neuroscience program? Use the buttons below to contact us.
Find out more Apply todayAbout the Program
Curriculum
Students in the Neuroscience Graduate Program begin by taking core courses in biomedical sciences and fundamental neuroscience, and completing three laboratory rotations to develop technical skills and identify potential laboratories for thesis research before taking their Qualifying Exams.
Penn State College of Medicine provides an inclusive and supportive environment that promotes not only research and learning, but to also enhance social justice in our communities.
All accepted doctoral students receive a stipend and paid tuition costs, allowing for full-time graduate studies.
Program Goals
The interdepartmental 5ad structure of the Neuroscience PhD program provides students with the flexibility to take multidisciplinary approaches to research problems in neuroscience, and collaborations among laboratories are strongly encouraged. Research programs are well-supported by grants from private and public funds, particularly from the National Institutes of Health.
Penn State College of Medicine provides a collegial environment that promotes research and learning.
Our immediate goal is to prepare students to assume responsible positions as researchers or teachers in the neurosciences. Our ultimate goal is to provide a foundation that will prepare them for leadership positions in academia, industry or a wide range of related disciplines. Graduates of the program have transitioned to careers in academic science, industry, healthcare and administration.
More About Penn State College of Medicine
View accessible video with audio description and transcript here.
Student Resources
Penn State College of Medicine strives to create the best culture of respect and inclusion for our students. A number of programs, services and facilities are available.
- Cognitive Skills Program
- Disability Services
- Diverse student groups
- Harrell Health Sciences Library
- Office for Culturally Responsive Health Care Education
- Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Office for Professional Mental Health
- Office for a Respectful Learning Environment
- Simulation Center
- Student Health
Campus Life
Student Housing
Penn State College of Medicine offers housing in its University Manor East or University Manor West apartments to full-time students, residents, postdoctoral scholars and visiting scholars.
Life in Hershey, PA
Penn State College of Medicine's primary campus is located in Hershey, Pa. The area provides numerous diverse and delicious dining experiences, sports, concerts and entertainment, and is a short drive away from the Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington, DC, metro areas.