The UW-Madison Graduate School has approved creation of a new dual-degree PhD/MPA program in Neuroscience and Public Policy that will result in a PhD in Neuroscience and a Master of Public Affairs degree from the La Follette School of Public Affairs.

The first program of its kind anywhere, the Neuroscience and Public Policy program will educate students who wish to use a critical understanding of neuroscience to inform public policy. Our curriculum is designed to integrate training in the neurosciences and public policy. In coming decades, advances in brain science promise to fundamentally transform our understanding of the human mind, behavior, and mental health, posing new challenges for policy in areas such as education, health, welfare, and security. Our graduates will pursue academic and policy careers.

The program seminar and activities will also be open to students opting to pursue the PhD or MPA degree separately, and also to other interested students at UW-Madison enrolled in the biological sciences, medicine, social sciences, and humanities.

Additional Program Information

• Focal Areas
• Curriculum
• Timeline

We will accept applications in fall 2006 for enrollment beginning in September 2007. Please contact Ronald Kalil or David Weimer for further information.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison

Founded in 1848 as a land-grant institution, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is consistently ranked among the top three research universities in the country. Specific strengths include the life sciences, science and technology policy, law, and ethics. Please consult the University's website for more information.

City of Madison

The state capitol, Madison provides an attractive setting for the University of Wisconsin. The city is situated on the shores of two large lakes and is surrounded by rolling hills and the woods of southern Wisconsin, which provide many opportunities year-round for recreation. Madison also offers a rich cultural life and numerous civic attractions.