Neuroscience and Education MS

What do graduates of the program do? 

Our Neuroscience and Education program graduates pursue a wide range of exciting career paths or pursue further educational opportunities. Many continue in doctoral programs at top universities, deepening their expertise in the field. Others apply their knowledge in professional settings, bringing a neuroscience-informed approach to teaching, clinical settings, and industry.

Our alums have found success in cutting-edge research labs, educational consulting, and ed-tech innovation, contributing to advancements in learning sciences. Whether you envision a future in research, education, technology, or policy, this program provides a strong foundation in neuroscience, cognition, and emerging research methods—equipping you with the skills to explore new frontiers in understanding the brain and learning.

Is the GRE required for admission? 

No, but scores may be submitted if they are available. Other application materials like the personal statement, recommendation letters, and previous academic and professional experience are weighed more heavily in the admission process.

What level of neuroscience training / knowledge is required? 

Most students, regardless of their prior training in neuroscience, will take Foundations of Neuroscience 1: Anatomy & Physiology & Foundations of Neuroscience 2: Systems. Additionally, we require the Research Methods in Neuroscience course. These courses provide the necessary knowledge and training to succeed in the program.

• Foundations of Neuroscience 1: Anatomy & Physiology and Research Methods in Neuroscience are offered in the Fall term.
• Foundations of Neuroscience 2: Systems is offered in the Spring term.

Students with a degree in neuroscience may request a waiver exam to potentially test out of the Foundations courses. Substantial evidence of prior relevant coursework is required to waive the Research Methods in Neuroscience course requirement. 

How many credits do I have to take per semester? 

"Full-time" status is accorded to students registered for 9 or more semester points per term. Students enrolled for fewer than 9 semester points (0–8 semester points) are considered "part-time." The Thesis Course carries full-time equivalency, so this course may be taken alone in your final semester. 

How can I maintain full-time status, with less than 9 points per semester? 

Students taking fewer than 9 semester points in a term may be certified as full-time if they can present an approved Certificate of Equivalency (COE) form. Students must consult and get approval for COEs from an advisor and the Registrar's office. Students in their final semester who are registered in the Thesis Course are considered full-time, and no COE is needed. 

Is it possible to work full-time and obtain my degree? 

Yes, it is possible to work during the program. Many of our Master’s students currently have full- or part-time jobs. However, working during the Master’s program may slow your progression through the program, and can present scheduling challenges, since not all of our courses are offered outside normal working hours.

When are classes held? 

Many classes take place in the evening from 5:10 PM–6:50 PM, or from 7:20 PM–9:00 PM (Monday till Thursday; no classes on Friday). However, some classes take place during afternoons (typically, 1:00pm–2:40pm or 3:00–4:40pm). Students working full-time may be able to arrange alternative options for required courses with instructor approval. We also have select courses that are offered online. Typically, during the Spring and Fall semesters, one class (of 1 hour 40 minutes) a week is held for a 3-point course. In addition, each class requires self-study time (e.g., 6–8 hours a week, or more, for a 3-point course). Summer courses meet twice a week (M,W or T,R) for 2 hours and 10 minutes each. These courses last for 6 weeks.

How long does it take to complete the program if I study part-time vs. full-time?

Our students follow many different timelines. 

International students typically complete the program within two years as full-time students, as required by their visas. 

For other students, completion depends on the number of courses taken each semester. The Master's degree requires a minimum of 32 credit hours and the completion of a Master's Thesis. The Master's Thesis is usually completed during a student's final semester, and carries full-time equivalent status at the College. This means that students will typically only register for the Thesis course during their final semester. It also means, importantly, students are expected to work full-time on the research and writing activities that will support the thesis development.

• Part-time students typically take 3–6 credits per semester and have the option to take courses during the summer, which has two sessions available.
• Full-time students, including summer coursework, can complete the program over two academic years (typically a fall, spring, summer, and a second fall and second spring).

However, a slower pace can provide opportunities for deeper engagement in research, participation in lectures, events, and conferences, and stronger connections with faculty and peers. The flexibility of the program allows students to balance coursework with their professional and academic goals.

Is health insurance available? 

Yes, health insurance is available. Full-time students must prove they have health insurance or otherwise enroll in the university plan. Insurance is available to part-time students. During registration all students have the option to enroll. More information about the plans is available here.

Is housing available? 

Teachers College does have limited subsidized housing. If housing is needed, apply as far in advance as possible, as space is limited. More information can be obtained from the Office of Residential Services. 

When are new students accepted into the program? 

Students are accepted for the Master’s of Neuroscience and Education program for the fall semester only. Our priority deadline is 01/15, and the final deadline is 05/15. It is recommended that prospective students apply as early as possible to be considered for financial aid and housing, if desired.

Can I park at Teachers College? Is there public transportation? 

There are several parking lots near campus, but they are expensive. Street parking is available, but can be scarce. Meters are available on city streets and are subject to NYC parking rules and regulations. TC is easily accessible by bus M4 and M104 and subway (1). Students of Teachers College also have access to Columbia University’s intercampus shuttle system. For those who live in Westchester and Connecticut, MetroNorth stops at the 125th Harlem Station and from there you can take the M60 bus to 120th and Amsterdam.