Neural Engineering

TBD

Neurotechnology is a rapidly emerging field of deep technology at the intersection of neuroscience, engineering, artificial intelligence, and medical devices. Example neurotechnologies include brain-machine interfaces for virtual/augmented reality, implanted biomedical devices for treating neurological disorders, brain-inspired artificial intelligence, thought-controlled robotic arms, and biophotonic nanointerfaces for treating psychiatric disorders. Utah has long been a hub for Neural Engineering research, and workforce demand is now growing rapidly.

The Neural Engineering Doctoral (PhD) degree builds on undergraduate STEM bachelor's or master's degrees. A Neural Engineering PhD establishes a student as a leader in the field, capable of starting their own companies, managing research and development, or holding research/teaching positions in government or academia.

Students interested in pursuing a Neural Engineering PhD Degree should apply via the University of Utah Graduate School application and indicate "Neural Engineering PhD" as their chosen program. Students must be admitted to the Graduate School of the University of Utah as well as the Neural Engineering graduate program. Admissions requirements are as follows:

• A bachelor's or master's degree in a STEM related area. Applicants with degrees from other areas will be considered, but students may need to complete additional work (e.g., math, physics, programming, etc.) to be prepared to take required courses.

• Graduate degree applications will be considered holistically; therefore, specific GRE scores and GPAs are not required for admission. An undergraduate GPA of at least 3.5 is recommended for admission (the university requires a minimum of 3.0). Some exceptions are available, so students with lower GPA's can apply and explain their individual circumstances in their personal statement.

• GRE scores are currently not required but may be considered if they will strengthen the student's application. They are recommended for international students as another way to demonstrate English proficiency and academic preparation and for students with a GPA under 3.5.

• · International students must also meet University of Utah English proficiency requirement for admission (see https://admissions.utah.edu/apply/international/english-proficiency)

  o Recommended for admission to this program: TOEFL 90+, IELTS 7.5, 125 Duolingo

Applicants should also provide:

• Names and emails of three people that will provide recommendations letters.

• A resume or curriculum vitae.

• 1-2 page personal statement.

• Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended (official transcripts required to enroll if admitted to the program)

• Writing sample of recent research or publication (optional but recommended for PhD applicants)

These are minimum requirements and do not guarantee admission. The graduate admissions committee reviews all aspects of the application package before determining acceptance into the program. Any student wishing to pursue a PhD must identify and be selected by a faculty advisor that will advise their dissertation research. Students that have completed the Neural Engineering Master of Science program can be considered for admission to the PhD program without providing all the above information but must complete a university admission application to formalize the process and may find it beneficial to provide the above information to help potential faculty advisors consider their application.