The Integrative Neuroscience programme in Magdeburg is unique in providing comprehensive training in all areas of modern neuroscience: molecular, cellular, systems, behavioural, and clinical. The intensive and challenging coursework covers the full range of topics from molecular to behavioural approaches to neuroscience research. In addition, students 'rotate' through three programme labs in order to become familiar with different research areas and to  select a lab for thesis research. The Integrative Neuroscience programme also offers advanced courses on topics of special interest to current research.  

Because of the interdisciplinary nature of modern neuroscience, our students have diverse backgrounds in physical and/or biological sciences. Accordingly, a B.Sc. degree in a relevant field (physics, biology, medicine, mathematics, and others) from an internationally recognised university is required for admission. Students with other degrees and with a sufficient number of courses in biology, physics, inorganic and organic chemistry, and calculus may be considered on an individual basis. In many cases, the admission committee will conduct a phone or skype interview in order to determine suitability for the programme.

The admissions committee evaluates applications in two rounds.

Firstly, the admissions committee assesses the strength of academic background (as evident from degree and course transcripts) and three additional criteria (as evident from “Statement of purpose” and “Curriculum vitae”):

• Particular affinity to neuroscientific research (documented by past qualifications, activities, or achievements).

• Particular intellectual abilities (documented by past qualifications, activities, or achievements).

• Other important personal characteristics (relevant to a research career).

Secondly, if the admissions committee gained a favorable impression of the academic background and qualifications of a candidate, an interview is scheduled (in person or by phone/skype).

The purpose of the interview is to confirm that you understand the nature of the programme (i.e., what it does and does not offer), that you are specifically interested in an integrative neuroscience programme (i.e., rather than a more focused programme), and to identify any areas in which you may want to get further academic preparation (i.e., how to best use the remaining time before admission).