A career in neurological surgery involves treating the brain and nervous system through surgery and diagnostic tests. Neurosurgeons earn an average salary of $282,504. Successful neurosurgeons must have a desire to help patients, strong work ethic, emotional stability, and ability to make quick decisions. Extensive education is required, including 4 years of undergraduate study, 4 years of medical school, and 3-8 years of residency training. Top schools for neurosurgery education include Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, New York Medical College, and University of Michigan Medical School. While the career offers a high salary and opportunity to save lives, it also involves long hours, tedious work, and high costs of medical education.