Ph.D. in Neuroscience

This PhD degree program offers coursework and research that emphasizes the integration of molecular biology, developmental biology, biophysics, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuroendocrinology, neuroimmunology, cognition, and behavioral neuroscience. Students in the program are required to develop a strong background in the principles of neuroscience and develop the intellectual background and technical expertise necessary for successful research projects in their area of specialization. Eventual publication of the research in peer-reviewed journals is expected, but not required.

See preceding admission and entry requirements. In addition, applicants to the neuroscience graduate programs should have a strong background in neuroscience. The following courses (or their equivalent) must be completed during undergraduate preparation or as part of the Ph.D. Program. Neuro 460 (Behavioral Neuroscience: 3 hr), Neuro 480 (Advanced Neuroscience: 3 hr), Neuro 481 (Advanced Neuroscience Laboratory, 1 hr), PDBio 362 (Advanced Physiology: 3 hr), PDBio 363 (Advanced Physiology Laboratory: 1 hr), Chem 481 (Biochemistry: 3 hr).

• Credit hours: 54 hours, including 18 hours of dissertation (PDBio 799R).
• Students who have earned a master's degree must complete at least 36 semester hours of additional graduate work at BYU beyond the master's degree.
• Required courses: Biol 503 (1 hour), Neuro 601 (3 hours), Neuro 645R (2 hours), Neuro 655R (2 hours), Neuro 665 R (2 hours), Stat 510 or equivalent (3 hours). One semester (2 credits) of Neuro 645R must be performed in a laboratory different than the laboratory of the student's Graduate Committee Chair.
• A seminar must be presented each year.
• A professional development requirement must be met.
• Dissertation: standard university dissertation format or journal publication format.
• Examinations: (A) comprehensive written and oral examination; (B) defense of dissertation.

Expected Learning Outcomes