The neuroscience program is nested under the direction of the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, while maintaining strong interdisciplinary connections. The program is designed to represent the psychological and biological foundations of this growing field. 

Undergraduates preparing for careers in neuroscience or related fields must have a strong scientific foundation in the natural sciences. Students studying neuroscience at Drake University will be exposed to an interdisciplinary environment through coursework in physical and life sciences, close interactions with faculty and the opportunity to participate in research projects. The interdisciplinary nature of neuroscience can be appealing to students in allied fields such as psychology and biology, thus making earning a double major or minor an attractive option. 

There are many career paths available to students interested in neuroscience or related fields. Some are interested in attending graduate school to pursue a career in basic or applied research and teaching. Others may want a neuroscience background as a foundation for further training in a health care field, such as medicine, physical therapy, optometry and nursing. Still others may want exposure to neuroscience topics because of an interest in professional writing (newspaper, magazine) about the field or working in a related field such as the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry. In all cases, students should work with their faculty mentor to determine what path is best for them.