Neuroscience at the University of Toronto Scarborough

Unravel the mysteries of how the brain functions — and dysfunctions — by gaining the skills to design experiments, conduct studies, analyze data and present your findings. We take your learning across a broad range of academic fields to give you a holistic, thorough investigation of the nervous system; you'll explore techniques and knowledges from disciplines including anatomy, biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, physiology, psychology and zoology. We prioritize the latest in cutting-edge technologies and emerging research techniques to prepare you for a wide range of careers in clinical and research environments. 

Our research-intensive specialist program includes a co-op option, and you can complete three four-month work terms that give you paid, real-world experience and chances to make connections in the field. You’ll also explore computation modelling, neuroimaging and much more, and you can tailor your studies with one of three specialist streams: 

  • Systems/behavioural: Dive into the neural mechanisms that drive behaviour and uncover how brain circuits create responses to external stimuli, internal biology and past experiences. You’ll gain the knowledge to co-ordinate responses for living subjects, primarily using in vivo approaches such as optogenetics and chemogenetics. 
  • Cellular/molecular: Explore the nervous system at its most fundamental level, and investigate the influence of genes, signalling molecules and cellular morphology on the brain’s development and function, largely through in vitro techniques such as immunohistochemistry and patch clamp. 
  • Cognitive: Understand the neural basis behind higher functions of the mind, from language and memory to attention and decision-making. You’ll focus on developing a strong background in patient neuropsychology and neuroimaging techniques, such as MRI and EEG. 

Our major program focuses on the systems/behavioural and cellular/molecular areas of neuroscience, and on giving you the personal and professional tools to be a skilled consumer of neuroscience research. And you’ll be encouraged to take a complimentary major that best suits your interests and goals.  

Department
Psychology
Degree offered
Honours Bachelor of Science or Honours Bachelor of Science + Health Sciences Certificate
Program options
Specialist, Major
Sample courses
  • Neuroanatomy Laboratory
  • Learning and Motivation
  • Neuroscience of Pleasure and Reward
Admissions
Life Sciences
Department
Psychology
,
Admissions
Life Sciences (Health Sciences Stream)
Department
Psychology
Degree offered
Honours Bachelor of Science or Honours Bachelor of Science + Health Sciences Certificate
Program Options
Specialist, Major
Combined degree options
Sample courses
  • Neuroanatomy Laboratory
  • Learning and Motivation
  • Neuroscience of Pleasure and Reward