Digitally created image of a web of neurons

4+1 Master of Science in Neuroscience and Behavior

MS program available to Five College students as a fifth-year master’s degree.

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The MS in neuroscience and behavior (NSB) at UMass Amherst is a fast-track graduate program open only to Five College students (from Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith Colleges, or UMass).  

Typically, you’ll identify a faculty advisor in the junior year of your undergraduate work, and then you’ll become actively engaged in research throughout your senior year. The research should lead to a well-defined project suitable for a graduate-level major research project in the NSB program. 

In addition to your research, you’ll take advanced courses in molecular, cellular, and developmental neurobiology, behavioral and cognitive neuroscience, and research methodology. Hands-on experience is gained from being in an active research lab.

The MS in NSB will prepare you for careers in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, science journalism, government agencies, and academic research laboratories. You’ll also be ready to continue on in medical school, veterinary school, or law school (i.e., intellectual-property and corporate law). Some graduates also move into UMass Amherst’s PhD in neuroscience and behavior program. 

Application information & deadlines

Please refer to the program. Open to Five College students only.

Neuroscience and Behavior

This graduate program brings together faculty members from various departments to provide exciting, cutting-edge research training.