Career   -   Neuroscience

Neuroscience involves the study of the biochemistry, cellular structure, anatomy, physiology, development and pathology of nerves (neurons) and nervous tissues including the brain. Some universities offer neuroscience as a distinct subject within a Bachelor degree. Alternatively, the common Bachelor degree subjects biochemistry, molecular biology and cell biology provide foundation knowledge which will assist in the study of neuroscience in higher degrees including Honours, Masters & PhD. With rising life expectancy due to massive advances in health care, significant increases in neurodegenerative diseases associated with age are expected. For higher degree holders, the number of neuroscience related research positions is expected to grow into the future. Potential solutions to combat neurodegenerative disease include drug development and stem cell therapies. For those interested in pursuing a career in drug development, undergraduate studies should also include more advanced chemistry & biochemistry subjects along with any neuroscience associated subjects if available. For those interested in pursuing a career in stem cell therapies, a higher degree research project investigating stem cell therapies for neurological disease or a project focusing on stem cells and neurological development would be advantageous. Biological neuroscience also collaborates closely with cognitive neuroscience and neuro-psychology. Those wishing to increase their competitiveness by gaining interdisciplinary qualifications may embark on Bachelor degrees with double majors, double degrees or Bachelor degree - diploma combinations.