What are some of the best schools for neuroscience while also having good music (jazz) programs?
Hello! I'd like to introduce myself to you all so you can get a background about me and my wants in a college. I'm currently a junior living in Illinois. One of my most burning passions is music but, as per the title, I am really interested in pursuing neuroscience as a major in college. I'm really trying to find some colleges that will give me both the best education and have strong jazz programs (or musical ensembles in general for non-majors) while simultaneously being affordable and I need some help searching. I would prefer an urban/suburban college (specifically one close to a "jazz" city) and a smaller population (although doesn't necessarily matter). Not sure if I should mention, but I will anyway: I have a 4.0 unweighted GPA and a 28 on my pACT (hopefully aiming for above 30 on the real one with lots of practice). Many extracurriculars and leadership positions.
Some colleges I have found so far are: Northwestern University UIUC UIC Johns Hopkins Vanderbilt Case Western UMich University of Miami NYU University of Rochester UW-Madison USC
Some of these are a bit of a reach, so please let me know if I should reconsider some of these colleges or if they are strong for me. FYI: if you're curious, I play trumpet and I went to All-State last year and I am also going this year (highest score in my region!!)
Posted Dec 1, 2025, 3:13 AM UTC