Neuroscience is the study of how the brain works to generate behavioral outcomes using sensory inputs. It is a field of study that is expanding at a national and international level due to the rapid development of innovative technological approaches that allow for levels of analysis of the nervous system never before imagined, growing recognition of the critical role that even single cells have in influencing normal and pathological nervous system function and the increasing prevalence of neurodegenerative disease, traumatic brain injury and substance abuse in our society. The Federal government's recent "Brain Initiative", announced in 2013, is projected to provide more than $3 billion in research funding to the field of neuroscience over the next ten years.
Since understanding normal brain and nervous system functions and overcoming/treating their dysfunction is of growing concern to our society, many careers in neuroscience are experiencing sustained growth. To cite just a few of the many examples, the American Psychological Association has recently drawn attention to the critical shortage of both civilian and military mental health professionals needed to treat such diverse problems as post-traumatic stress syndrome and traumatic brain injury. Opportunities in regenerative medicine are increasing exponentially and currently run the gamut from research to clinical application to marketing of therapies that impact both peripheral and central nervous system repair. Finally, artificial intelligence and robotics are predicted to permeate wide segments of daily life by 2025 and advancements in both fields have benefited immensely from a neuroscience perspective.
Career opportunities in Neuroscience
Students in this major will receive extensive and in-depth training in basic aspects of nervous system function and will employ a wide range of highly innovative technological approaches to study the nervous system in the context of normal function and disease states such as Alzheimer's Disease, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's Disease, substance abuse, and stroke. The major prepares students for post-baccalaureate professions in science related fields such as medical technician, pharmaceutical sales, and lab technician. Students are also well prepared for entry into a wide range of professional programs including medical and doctor of osteopathy school; pharmacy school; and occupational and physical therapy programs, as well as graduate school in neuroscience, cognitive psychology, public health, and other related areas.
Students interested in earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree must complete a minimum of 60 hours in biological, physical, mathematical and/or computer sciences. See the complete description of College requirements for a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Sciences degrees in the Arts and Sciences section of the Undergraduate Bulletin.
Total Credit Hours - 30
Total Hours - 25
Core Courses
Total Hours 22-25
Students must complete 27 credit hours of guided electives. At least 12 of the 27 credit hours must come from group one. Students may choose from the remaining courses in group one or group two to equal the 27 credit hours of guided electives. Students cannot enroll in more than 3 credit hours of research courses in one semester even if under a different prefix (i.e., ANA 394, BIO 394, PSY 393, PGY 394) and no more than 6 total credit hours of research may be used toward the major. See major sheet for complete list of guided elective options.
Psychologists study cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behavior by observing, interpreting, and recording how individuals relate to one another and to their environments.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.
Median Salary
$92,740
per year in 2023
Number of Jobs
196,000
in 2023
10 Year Job Outlook
12,000
new jobs (average)
Psychologists work in a variety of settings, such as schools, hospitals, and private practice. Most are full time, but part-time work is common. Some work evenings or weekends to accommodate their clients' schedules.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Read MorePhysicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses and address health maintenance.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.
Number of Jobs
816,900
in 2023
10 Year Job Outlook
24,600
new jobs (average)
Physicians and surgeons work in both clinical and nonclinical settings. Clinical settings include physicians' offices and hospitals; nonclinical settings include government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and insurance companies.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Read MoreGenetic counselors assess clients' risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as birth defects.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.
Median Salary
$95,770
per year in 2023
Number of Jobs
3,500
in 2023
10 Year Job Outlook
600
new jobs (average)
Genetic counselors work primarily in hospitals, physicians’ offices, outpatient care centers, university medical centers, and diagnostic laboratories. Most work full time.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Read MoreMedical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.
Median Salary
$100,890
per year in 2023
Number of Jobs
119,000
in 2023
10 Year Job Outlook
11,600
new jobs (average)
Medical scientists typically work in offices and laboratories. Most work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Read MoreUnderstanding that over 70 percent of university students will change their declared major at least once during their college careers, the College of Arts and Sciences has developed an Exploratory Studies program for students who have yet to decide the specific field of study that most closely aligns both their personal interests and their professional career goals and objectives. The Exploratory Studies Program provides students with an extraordinarily diverse educational environment that includes coursework spanning Math and Natural Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences and provides students with the unique opportunity to explore multiple areas of interest during their first several semesters on campus. For more information please contact a recruiting representative at asrecruting@uky.edu.
While there are endless ways to create an unforgettable journey as a Wildcat, we can only think of one that gives you the chance to step outside the classroom and into exploring new parts of the world around you: participating in an Education Abroad opportunity! Whether it’s in a study, research, service, or internship program, taking your UK experience international with EA is the most hands-on way for you to expand your global perspective while making yourself a more well-rounded, marketable candidate to future employers no matter your field. As you take these first steps towards investing in your future, EA encourages you to take advantage of all the opportunities UK has to offer. Take a look at some of the many suggested opportunities UK Education Abroad & Exchanges has to complement your major! #ukyabroad
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