Program in Fundamental Neuroscience (PFN)
Program in Fundamental Neuroscience (PFN)

About the Major

What is Neuroscience?

Neuroscience is a multidisciplinary field that studies the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves throughout the body. It explores how neurons communicate through electrical and chemical signals, how the brain processes information and forms memories, and how the nervous system develops, adapts, and sometimes malfunctions. By integrating knowledge across many scientific disciplines, neuroscience advances our understanding of healthy brain function and neurological disorders.

About the Major

Offered by the Program in Fundamental Neuroscience (PFN), the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience (NESC) major is one of UVA's fastest-growing majors. The program provides a broad foundation spanning molecular and cellular neuroscience, neural circuits and systems, cognition, and behavior. Students study biology, psychology, chemistry, physics, and related disciplines while developing the knowledge and laboratory skills needed for careers in research, medicine, biotechnology, mental health, and other science-related fields.

This major is an excellent fit for students who are curious about how the brain and nervous system function across multiple levels, from molecules and cells to neural circuits, behavior, cognition, development, and computation. Through interdisciplinary coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences, students build a strong foundation in neuroscience while preparing for graduate study or a wide range of professional careers.

What You’ll Learn

Neuroscience graduates develop an interdisciplinary foundation in biology, psychology, research methods, critical thinking, and scientific communication, preparing them for a wide range of graduate and professional programs.

As a Neuroscience major, you will develop the knowledge and skills to:

  • Explain nervous system function across multiple levels of biological organization
  • Analyze how changes in genes, cells, neural circuits, and physiological processes influence behavior, neurological function, and disease
  • Apply scientific reasoning to investigate neuroscience questions
  • Evaluate and apply neuroscience research methods
  • Conduct and communicate scientific investigations in written, oral, and visual formats
  • Recognize the interdisciplinary nature and societal relevance of neuroscience

Where a Neuroscience Degree Can Take You

Neuroscience undergraduate majors pursue a wide range of careers because the field combines biology, psychology, data analysis, research methods, and scientific communication. Many graduates continue into graduate or professional programs, while others enter the workforce directly.

Career Paths in Neuroscience

Here are common career paths for neuroscience majors:

  • Research & Discovery – Conduct research in neuroscience, biology, medicine, and biotechnology.
  • Healthcare & Medicine – Prepare for careers in medicine, clinical care, and health-related fields.
  • Brain, Behavior & Mental Health – Explore careers focused on cognition, behavior, and mental health.
  • Biotechnology & Innovation – Apply neuroscience knowledge to innovation in health, data science, and technology.
  • Education, Policy & Communication – Share scientific knowledge and shape decisions related to health and society.

Graduate and Professional Pathways

The Interdisciplinary Neuroscience major provides excellent preparation for advanced study and professional programs, including:

  • Medical School (MD/DO)
  • Dental School (DDS/DMD)
  • Physician Assistant (PA) Programs
  • Ph.D. Programs in Neuroscience, Neurobiology, Psychology, and related fields
  • Law School
  • Master’s Programs in Public Health, Health Data Science, Data Science, and related disciplines
  • Master of Science in Law (MSL)

Start Your Neuroscience Journey

Explore the links below to learn more about the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience major requirements, steps to declare, plan coursework, how to get involved in neuroscience research, and transfer student resources:

Explore other related majors

Students with a stronger interest in the psychological aspects of neuroscience may also wish to explore the Behavioral Neuroscience and Cognitive Science majors offered through the Psychology Department.