Prospective Students Future Neuroscientists Start Here

Ready to take your passion for the brain to the next level? The University of Florida’s neuroscience programs offer unparalleled opportunities to train at one of the nation’s top institutions. Whether you choose to pursue your PhD, participate in one of our other research-intensive programs, or study online, you’ll receive the same world-class education, guided by expert faculty who are dedicated to your success. With cutting-edge research, flexible learning options and a supportive academic community, UF is the perfect place to launch your career in neuroscience. Click the links to learn more about each academic program, fill out an application or contact us with questions. This is your chance to shape the future of brain science, and there’s no better place to do it than at UF!

Graduate Programs

Ph.D. in Neuroscience

The Ph.D. in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Neuroscience is designed with a modernized curriculum that integrates well-rounded core neuroscience coursework and practical experiences, enabling neuroscience trainees to build strong quantitative skills that emphasize experimental design and statistical rigor. We strive to provide a rigorous and supportive environment that offers ample professional development and prepares students for a lifelong career in research science. With numerous advanced training programs funded by the NIH (T32s) in areas such as Alzheimer’s disease and movement disorders, our program offers considerable flexibility for each student to personalize their training experience to accomplish their own career goals.

Two students looking through scope

M.S. in Medical Sciences: Neuroscience

The goal of the M.S. in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Neuroscience is to provide students with applicable knowledge and essential research skills that can be leveraged toward multiple academic and private sector career path options. Students will take foundational coursework and complete a mentored research thesis. Some students may develop a passion for their topic of interest and pursue the Ph.D. track in neuroscience.

Dr. Freddyson Martinez-Rivera and colleagues working in the lab.
student working on a laptop

Online Programs

Our online programs are designed for post-graduate students and working professionals, whose professions are impacted by the field of neuroscience. Our programs are designed to increase understanding of normal brain function and the clinical expression and underlying pathogenesis of common neurological disorders.

undergraduate and post-bacc Training Programs

Summer Neuroscience Internship Program (SNIP)

The Summer Neuroscience Internship Program (SNIP) is a full-time, 10-week paid research internship hosted by the UF Department of Neuroscience and the Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute. Students receive an immersive research experience with extensive professional development programming aimed at increasing readiness for graduate research degree programs.

Group photo of 2025 S-N-I-P cohort

GATORAADE

Gators Advancing Through Opportunities in Research for Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease Education is post-baccalaureate study for students who have already received a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and want to complete additional college coursework. Interested students typically take undergraduate courses to fulfill requirements for a professional school, teacher certification or prerequisites for graduate study or licensure/certification.

Students presenting at a conference

Postdoctoral Training Opportunities

Postdoctoral Research

The University of Florida is a vibrant training ground for postdoctoral fellows. Affiliations with the McKnight Brain Institute and a range of UF centers provide a strong scientific community and ample opportunity for building essential career skills both in and outside the laboratory.

Postodco working in the lab

AI-Powered Research at UF

Graduate students at UF have access to world-class AI infrastructure — including HiPerGator, one of the fastest supercomputers in U.S. higher education, and NaviGator AI, UF's secure platform for 40+ large language models. Our department is committed to making these tools accessible from day one.

hand holding energy representation of brain

Life in Gainesville

Interested in Moving to Gainesville?

Gainesville is more than a college town. With affordable living, year-round outdoor recreation, and a thriving arts and dining scene, it's a place where you can build a life outside the lab. Warm weather, a welcoming community, and easy access to Florida's coasts and natural parks make it one of the South's most underrated places to live.

bridge overlooking the giant water lily garden