PhD Neuroscience at University of Pittsburgh

Programme overview

The CNUP PhD training programme prepares neuroscientists through laboratory research combined with training in grant writing, literature evaluation and data presentation. About 12-15 students are admitted each year and all are fully supported while in the programme.

Faculty: Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences | Department: Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh (CNUP) | Intake: Fall | Location: Pittsburgh, PA, United States

What you will study

First-year students take three core courses (Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology I and II, Systems Neurobiology), 2-3 electives, a statistics course, Scientific Ethics and Professional Development, and a grant-writing course, and rotate through at least two laboratories. Milestones are a first-year preliminary (reprint) exam, a third-year comprehensive exam in grant-application format, a dissertation proposal (typically year 4) and defense (typically year 5).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Prior research experience is the most important criterion (applicants without laboratory experience are generally not considered), followed by letters of reference (especially from a research mentor), statement of goals, and science coursework and grades; admitted students typically have a QPA of at least 3.4. Online application with $75 fee; deadline December 1. In-person interview required for finalists (late January to early February); applicants must be physically in the U.S. for the interview. International applicants who are not exempt: Duolingo, TOEFL or IELTS scores. No MS programme.

Domestic applicants: USD 27,412 a year (2026-27). Pennsylvania-resident graduate tuition, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

International applicants: USD 49,272 a year (2026-27). Out-of-state (non-PA resident) graduate tuition, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

Intake: Fall

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