Masters degrees in Neuroscience involve advanced study of human nerve cells and the nervous system, exploring their anatomy, physiology, and chemical and functional behaviour
Related postgraduate specialisms include Cognitive Neuroscience and Clinical Neuroscience. Entry requirements typically include an appropriate undergraduate degree such as Biology or Medicine.
The new Dementia MSc is offered jointly by the UCL Institute of Neurology and the Division of Psychiatry and tackles one of the biggest global health problems facing society today. It provides research-oriented and cutting-edge training in the study of dementia and its scientific basis, led by international leaders in the science and practice of dementia. Two specialised pathways, in neuroscience and in mental health, are offered.
The neuroscience pathway brings the latest bench-top research findings to the bedside, develops and integrates basic and clinical neuroscience skills, and equips students for future careers in the clinical practice or basic neuroscience of dementia. A Mental Health pathway is also available.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of six core modules (90 credits), one or two optional modules (up to the value of 30 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).
Core modules
Optional modules
Students can choose one or two of the following, up to the value of 30 credits:
Students can also choose one elective module from across UCL, subject to approval by the Programme Director.
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which may take the form of a critical literature synthesis or collection and analysis of original data, depending on project availability and student background. The project culminates in a dissertation of approximately 10,000 words and a viva voce examination.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, journal clubs, workshops, masterclasses and patient-based teaching sessions supplemented by self-directed learning. Assessment is through ongoing formative assessments, for example interactive discussions and timetabled summative assessments (including short-answer and multiple-choice unseen examinations), essays, posters, oral presentations, and a research project and a final report in the format of a journal paper.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Dementia: Causes, Treatments and Research (Neuroscience) MSc
For scientists and psychologists, the programme can lead to future placements in clinically oriented research environments or clinical training. For clinicians, this is an excellent opportunity to gain a higher qualification at a world-leading centre of excellence in neurodegeneration research, which could be tailored to a variety of future roles in clinical, research and management fields. Many students will go on to pursue PhDs and research careers in the fields of dementia and neurodegeneration.
Employability
This unique programme will equip graduates with in-depth knowledge of dementia diseases and their treatments; strong, practical research skills that could facilitate doctoral or postdoctoral research in the field; and transferable scientific communication skills. Students will harness the expertise of scientists and clinicians who are currently setting the neuroscience research agenda in dementia internationally. This experience could support further doctoral studies and applications for nationally funded fellowships. For clinicians, the programme will provide research perspectives and practical skills that could inform subspecialty practice in dementia. We aim to train the next generation of neuroscientific and clinical leaders in dementia.
This programme is unique in linking neuroscientific foundations with specialist clinical skills and knowledge in dementia.
The programme integrates the expertise of UCL Institute of Neurology with affiliated departments at the forefront of the global mission to defeat dementia, and is taught by international leaders working closely together to link bench and bedside as part of UCL's Dementia Strategy.
The programme builds on UCL's global perspective, targeting students in developing as well as developed countries to drive future training opportunities. The programme emphasises active student participation and enquiry, develops practical skills, and offers unparalleled exposure to laboratories and patients.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Institute of Neurology
83% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
The new Dementia MSc is offered jointly by the UCL Institute of Neurology and the Division of Psychiatry and tackles one of the biggest global health problems facing society today. It provides research-oriented and cutting-edge training in the study of dementia and its scientific basis, led by international leaders in the science and practice of dementia. Two specialised pathways, in neuroscience and in mental health, are offered.
The neuroscience pathway brings the latest bench-top research findings to the bedside, develops and integrates basic and clinical neuroscience skills, and equips students for future careers in the clinical practice or basic neuroscience of dementia. More information about the Mental Health pathway is also available.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of six core modules (90 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).
Core modules
-Clinical Neuroscience of Neurodegenerative Diseases
-Current Research in Dementia
-Neurobiology of Degeneration and Repair
-Higher Functions of the Brain
-Research Methods and Critical Appraisal
-Practical Neuroscience of Dementia
Optional modules
-Advanced Neuroimaging
-Advanced Treatment and Management of Dementia
-Statistical Methods in Mental Health
-Introduction to Biological Research in Mental Health
-Quality Improvement in Health Care
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which may take the form of a critical literature synthesis or collection and analysis of original data, depending on project availability and student background. The project culminates in a dissertation of approximately 10,000 words and a viva voce examination.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, journal clubs, workshops, masterclasses and patient-based teaching sessions supplemented by self-directed learning. Assessment is through ongoing formative assessments, for example interactive discussions and timetabled summative assessments (including short-answer and multiple-choice unseen examinations), essays, posters, oral presentations, and a research project and a final report in the format of a journal paper.
This is a new programme and no information on graduate destinations is currently available. For scientists and psychologists, the programme can lead to future placements in clinically oriented research environments or clinical training. For clinicians, this is an excellent opportunity to gain a higher qualification at a world-leading centre of excellence in neurodegeneration research, which could be tailored to a variety of future roles in clinical, research and management fields. Many students will go on to pursue PhDs and research careers in the fields of dementia and neurodegeneration.
Employability
This unique programme will equip graduates with in-depth knowledge of dementia diseases and their treatments; strong, practical research skills that could facilitate doctoral or postdoctoral research in the field; and transferable scientific communication skills. Students will harness the expertise of scientists and clinicians who are currently setting the neuroscience research agenda in dementia internationally. This experience could support further doctoral studies and applications for nationally funded fellowships. For clinicians, the programme will provide research perspectives and practical skills that could inform subspecialty practice in dementia. We aim to train the next generation of neuroscientific and clinical leaders in dementia.
This programme is unique in linking neuroscientific foundations with specialist clinical skills and knowledge in dementia.
The programme integrates the expertise of UCL Institute of Neurology with affiliated departments at the forefront of the global mission to defeat dementia, and is taught by international leaders working closely together to link bench and bedside as part of UCL's Dementia Strategy.
The programme builds on UCL's global perspective, targeting students in developing as well as developed countries to drive future training opportunities. The programme emphasises active student participation and enquiry, develops practical skills, and offers unparalleled exposure to laboratories and patients.
This Masters is ideal for those who have an undergraduate degree in Psychology or a related discipline and would like to build more knowledge and skills highly valued both in academic research and the clinical professions. The MSc is an ideal platform from which to progress to PhD studies, particularly in Cognitive or Social Neuroscience. Students will also be well-equipped should they wish to undertake further professional training in Clinical Psychology, or a related discipline.
This Masters degree bridges three research and clinical disciplines:
The major aim of this programme is to provide you with a thorough grounding in the neuroscience that underpins human cognitive brain function, clinical, social and affective interaction, and neuropathology.
Teaching will comprise of seminars, lectures, computing and statistics classes, and supervision of an individual research project. Your learning experience during the programme will be enhanced by an invited speaker’s programme of external experts who work in Clinical, Social or Cognitive neuroscience.
You will have access to all the facilities and laboratories in the Psychology Department. Check our labs facilities in the Cognitive Neuroscience Research Unit (CRNU), the Baby lab, the Autism Research Group (ARG), the Human Memory Research Group, etc. For a full list of facilities visit the Psychology Department.
Our members have experience with a wide range of neuroscientific techniques, including neuropsychological testing, psychophysics, electrophysiology, and neuroimaging methods. We have particular strengths in the use of Electroencephalography (EEG), Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and Transcranial Electric Stimulation (a weak current applied to the scalp), in addition to measures of human behaviour (e.g. response times, response errors, and eye movements) and physiological measures (e.g. galvanic skin response and heart rate).
We test neurologically normal individuals, special populations (e.g. people with synesthesia) and people with expertise or acquired skills (e.g. dancers, musicians, athletes), as well as people with brain damage (e.g. neglect or split-brain patients), psychiatric diagnoses (e.g. schizophrenia), sensory deficits (e.g. visual and hearing impairments) and developmental disorders (e.g. dyslexia or autism).
We facilitate clinical internships through our specialist research Centre for Psychological Wellbeing and Neuroscience (CPWN) and with the local Mind centre.
Teaching will be comprised of lectures, seminars, group work and discussions, workshops and tutorials, reports, computing and statistics classes and the individual research dissertation.
You will undertake independent study, supported by the teaching and learning team, and will receive detailed feedback on your coursework. You will be provided with assessment and grade-related criteria which will outline your intended learning outcomes, along with the skills, knowledge and attitudes you are expected to demonstrate in order for you to complete an assessment successfully. You will also be assigned a personal tutor as your primary contact, who will advise you on academic matters and monitor your progress through the programme.
You will find a supportive vibrant research environment in the Department. The course is taught by academics, who are internationally recognised experts in their field with different backgrounds in clinical, social and cognitive neuroscience.
Check out what is going on in our laboratories and at the Center for Psychological Wellbeing and Neuroscience (CPWN).
Find our more about our work on our Facebook group.
Your learning will be assessed through essays, examinations, oral presentations, research methods projects and interpretation of statistical analyses, formal research proposals and a dissertation.
The programme consists of eight taught modules worth 15 credits each with around 30-34 hours of face-to-face contact, supported by online resources and an empirical research project (worth 60 credits).
You will learn about the latest advances in clinical, social and cognitive neuroscience and develop an appreciation of the reciprocal nature of research and practice in these domains. For example how insights from functional neuroimaging inform our understanding of neurological disorders and how clinical observations inform neurocognitive modelling.
This course will provide you with knowledge and skills highly valued both in academic research and the clinical professions. The MSc is an ideal platform from which to progress to PhD studies, particularly in Cognitive or Social Neuroscience. You will also be well-equipped should you wish to undertake further professional training in Clinical Psychology, or a related discipline.
The knowledge and skills you will acquire in this programme are highly valuable, whether you choose to pursue further research or an applied occupation. They will enhance your employability prospects in a wide range of sectors including the pharmaceutical industry, neuromarketing, the computing industry, science and the media, science and the arts, business or education.
Sign up to the King's Postgraduate Health & Life Sciences Open Evening - Wednesday 14 March 2018.
New Master's Scholarships available. Find out more and apply.
Our Neuroscience MSc course will provide you with multidisciplinary training in a range of neuroscience topics, particularly those relevant to psychiatry and neurology. It seeks to equip graduates from a wide range of backgrounds for the next stage of their career, which may be either further full-time study in a neuroscience-related academic research environment, or employment in an academic, clinical or pharmaceutical organisation.
Please note that the two year part-time programme runs on alternate years. The next intake will be September 2018.
The Neuroscience MSc inspires the next generation of neuroscientists. The course brings together home and international Students from various academic backgrounds. Our vision is to provide Students with multidisciplinary training in a broad range of neuroscience topics, particularly those relating to psychiatry, psychology, neuroscience and neurology. We believe that our Teaching and Research goals can best be achieved through our Students, Scientists and Clinicians working together on common problems. This approach transforms Students' theoretical and practical knowledge of the neurosciences, and provides them with the applied and professional skills they need for their future careers. In short, our objective is to provide students with a good foundation for life.
The Programme provides:
Course Objectives
Successful students should be able to demonstrate:
MSc Neuroscience Students take three broad-based neuroscience modules during their first term. During the second term Students ‘specialise’ by choosing one of six taught optional modules, ‘Psychiatric Genetics’, ‘Developmental Neurobiology’, ‘Neurodegeneration’, ‘Neuroimaging’, ‘Cognitive Neuroscience’ and ‘Neural Stem Cells and Nervous System Repair’. In the third and final term, Students work together with their Scientist / Clinician Supervisors to produce original research.
While most students applying to the course have a degree in a basic biomedical science or in Psychology, the course attracts a much wider range of applicants. These include:
MSc Neuroscience in a speciality
To obtain an MSc in a speciality, students must complete the 3 compulsory taught fundamental modules (A1-A3), followed by a further taught specialised optional module (from Modules B1-B8) and a research project (from Modules C1-C8) in the same speciality.
While every effort will be made to accommodate a student's wishes, the number of research projects that can be offered on each speciality is dependent on availability.
The degree of MSc Neuroscience will be awarded to:
You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, field work and self-study.
You are assessed through a combination of coursework and examinations.
This course provides excellent training for students who wish to pursue a broad range of careers including an academic or research career, or those who wish to enter medical school, the pharmaceutical industry, or train as clinical psychologists, or work as scientific writers.
This cutting-edge programme offers an exciting opportunity to study modern neuroscience with a focus on clinical implications. You will gain a strong foundation in understanding the mechanisms and treatments of neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases.
This course is designed for students from a range of backgrounds, who are interested in pursuing a career in neuroscience. You will develop a detailed understanding of modern theory and concepts relating to brain research and neuroscience and the application of these principles in the treatment of brain disorders. This course places emphasis on the clinical relevance of recent developments in neuroscience.
The development of your research methods skills is an integral part of the course. You will further your understanding of applied neuroscience with a research project which will develop your data handling and analysis skills, use of applied theory and statistics.
You will join the Health Sciences Research Centre whose academics are currently investigating a range of topical issues such as the addictive nature of new psychoactive substances, effects of stress on the brain regulatory systems and the mechanisms of brain cell death and repair using neural stem cells. You will be welcome to attend research seminars and discussions on topical developments in neuroscience and health sciences, led by experts.
MSc Clinical Neuroscience is recognised by the Federation of Neuroscience Societies (FENS) and included in the Network of European Neuroscience Schools (NENS), which is the highest accolade in European neuroscience teaching.
In this postgraduate programme, you will develop an integrated overview of contemporary neuroscience as a rapidly developing discipline with multiple links with molecular biology, genetics, pharmacology and medical sciences.
You will be introduced to a diverse range of topics and will have the chance to focus on areas that interest you. Examples of topics that you might cover include: clinical relevance of recent developments in neuroscience, brain imaging techniques and their applications in neurology and psychiatry, neurobiological mechanisms of human brain disorders, effects of nutrition and addiction on brain function, and research methods.
You will discuss ethical issues in clinical neuroscience and develop your ability to critically evaluate current developments in clinical brain research, which are relevant to healthcare.
This course can accommodate students from a range of backgrounds including new graduates from life sciences or psychology as well as health professionals who hold non-traditional qualifications. The programme options of PG Diploma or PG Certificate can be useful to health professionals who wish to refresh update theory knowledge without the commitment of conducting a research project (MSc). It is also suitable for applicants from the NHS, for example neuro-nurses or therapists.
Modules
Here are examples of the modules:
Health professionals, research careers in academia, NHS or private sector including the pharmaceutical industry. Alternatively, graduates may opt for further academic study at PhD level.
The Cognitive Neuroscience MSc at UCL is a research-led, state-of-the-art degree programme on mental processes in the human brain. The programme brings together some of the world's leading researchers in cognitive neuroscience and cognitive neuropsychology.
Students learn about the relationship between the mind and the brain in patients and healthy individuals, alongside the ideas, methodology, and current state of knowledge in cognitive neuroscience. Students learn in the classroom and laboratory via a combination of lectures, discussions and practical work. Alongside discipline-specific knowledge and skills, the programme develops key transferable skills.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).
Core modules
Optional modules
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an empirical research project in the area of cognitive neuroscience, which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000–12,000 words.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, problem classes, laboratory classes and student presentations. Depending on the chosen taught modules, it includes case demonstrations of neuropsychological patients, hands-on experience with the analysis of neuroimaging data, critical analyses of published scientific papers, and discussion seminars. Assessment is through examinations, essays, practical exercises, reports and the research dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Cognitive Neuroscience MSc
The MSc is a very selective programme that develops key research skills in the field of cognitive neuroscience and serves as a basis for PhD study in an academic setting or a research career in industry or business. The MSc also promotes key skills that prepare students for more general careers in clinical psychology, marketing, teaching, and consultancy.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
Students will have the opportunity to study and conduct cutting-edge research alongside some of the leading researchers in the field of cognitive neuroscience. Students will be immersed in this research environment and will learn directly from experts in the field rather than just text-books.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
UCL is among the principal research centres in the world in this area and offers an ideal environment to study cognitive neuroscience.
Our work attracts staff and students from around the world. Together they create an outstanding and vibrant environment, taking advantage of cutting-edge resources such as a behavioural neuroscience laboratory, a centre for brain imaging, and extensive laboratories for research in speech and language, perception, and cognition.
Opportunities for graduate students to work with world-renowned researchers exist in all areas of investigation. The division offers a supportive environment including numerous specialist seminars, workshops, and guest lectures.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Division of Psychology & Language Sciences
83% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
The Educational Neuroscience MA/MSc will introduce students to the methods and findings from the emerging field of educational neuroscience. It will develop their understanding of key issues in educational neuroscience and the application of neuroscience to education, and provide the opportunity for them to undertake research in educational neuroscience.
This programme will develop students' understanding of research processes and give them the opportunity to be taught by staff with a wide range of expertise in psychology of education and developmental cognitive neuroscience. Students will also benefit from strong links with psychological expertise in other colleges of the University of London, especially Birkbeck, with whom this is a joint award.
Students undertake modules to the value of 210 credits.
The programme consists of five core modules (90 credits) - four taught at Birkbeck and one at UCL - two optional modules (60 credits) - taught at the IOE - and a dissertation (60 credits).
Core modules
* indicates modules taken at Birkbeck
Optional modules
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a 10,000-word dissertation.
Teaching and learning
This programme is delivered by face-to-face daytime or evening sessions and attendance may vary depending on your choice of optional modules. It is assessed by coursework assignments of up to 5,000 words and a 10,000-word dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Educational Neuroscience MA/MSc
Graduates of this programme are currently working across a broad range of areas. Some are working as research assistants, while others have jobs as teachers. Graduates can also be found working as PhD students.
Employability
Students gain experience of thinking critically about how to apply scientific theories and findings to educational practice, and how to build an evidence base for education. These are crucial skills that aid career development in both the science and the education sectors.
The Department of Psychology & Human Development brings together staff with research and teaching interests that encompass psychological approaches to learning, development and teaching from early childhood to adulthood.
The Centre for Educational Neuroscience (CEN) was formed in 2008 to promote applications of cognitive neuroscience within educational research, and build partnerships with professionals to translate findings into new practice. The CEN involves 30+ academic staff with expertise in developmental psychology, pedagogy and learning technologies (UCL Institute of Education), cognitive neuroscience and educational psychology (UCL) and developmental neuroscience and computational modeling (Birkbeck).
The CEN established the MA/MSc in Educational Neuroscience, with an intake of psychology graduates and education professionals, which feeds into an ESRC-accredited doctoral training pathway.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Psychology & Human Development
78% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
Our brain and its workings define who we are. Neuroscience is discovering how the nervous system functions in health and disease from the molecular to the behavioural level. It is a vibrant area of science with regular exciting new breakthroughs, but there is still much to be discovered. UCL is the leading neuroscience institution in Europe, and students benefit greatly from a vast reservoir of expertise.
In addition to providing experience and participation in cutting-edge neuroscience, delivered by internationally recognised researchers, the programme generates several transferable skills, notably advanced laboratory research methods, data analysis, computer literacy, oral presentation, critical appraisal of specialised literature, and time management.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of four core modules (75 credits), one optional module (15 credits) and a research project (90 credits).
Core modules
Optional modules
Students choose one of the following:
Research project/report
Students undertake an original research project which culminates in a 7,000-word dissertation.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials and a laboratory project. Student performance is evaluated through formal examination, coursework, and the research project.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Neuroscience MSc
For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.
The majority (more than 80%) of our graduates take up PhD positions in neuroscience research, including some who stay on at UCL.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
The MSc in Neuroscience provides an introduction to a career in neuroscience. Around 80% of our students progress to a PhD and then onto careers in academia, industry and other allied biomedical professions. The remainder go into careers in the fields of healthcare, education and commercial scientific research.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
The UCL Division of Biosciences is one of the largest and most active research environments for basic biological research in the UK, and UCL has one of the largest, most dynamic and exceptional neuroscience communities in the world.
UCL has over 450 principal investigators covering all aspects of neuroscience.
This MSc provides students with a broad knowledge of neuroscience, together with deep knowledge and hands-on experience in the area of their research project.
There is increasing international demand for high-quality research training on mental processes in the healthy and diseased human brain. This MRes brings together some of the world's leading researchers in cognitive neuroscience and cognitive neuropsychology, offering students an ideal environment to prepare for independent research careers in this fast-developing field.
Students learn about the relationship between the mind and the brain in patients and healthy individuals, alongside the ideas, methodology, and current state of knowledge in cognitive neuroscience. In addition to specialised, research-oriented training, the programme develops key transferable skills. These include project management, logical thinking, oral and written communication, and independent learning. The MRes has a greater emphasis on the research project than the Cognitive Neuroscience MSc.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of two key skills modules (30 credits), two optional modules (one from Group One and one from Group Two to a total value of 30 credits) and a substantial research project (120 credits).
Core modules
Optional modules
Students choose one optional module from group one* and one module from group two**
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an empirical research project in the area of cognitive neuroscience, which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000–17,000 words.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, problem classes, laboratory classes and student presentations. Depending on the chosen optional modules, it includes case demonstrations of neuropsychological patients, hands-on experience with the analysis of neuroimaging data, critical analyses of published scientific papers, and discussion seminars. Assessment is through examinations, essays, practical exercises, reports and the research dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Cognitive Neuroscience MRes
The MRes is a very selective programme that develops key research skills in the field of cognitive neuroscience and serves as a basis for PhD study in an academic setting or a research career in industry or business. The MRes also promotes key skills that prepare students for more general careers in clinical psychology, marketing, teaching, and consultancy.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
Students have the opportunity to study and conduct cutting-edge research alongside some of the leading researchers in the field of cognitive neuroscience. Students will be immersed in this research environment and will learn directly from experts in the field rather than just text-books.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
The UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience (ICN) is among the principal research centres in the world in this area and offers an ideal environment to study the subject.
Our work attracts staff and students from around the world. Together they create an outstanding and vibrant environment, taking advantage of cutting-edge resources such as a behavioural neuroscience laboratory, a centre for brain imaging, and extensive laboratories for research in speech and language, perception, and cognition.
Opportunities for graduate students to work with world-renowned researchers exist in all areas of investigation. The division offers a supportive environment including numerous specialist seminars, workshops, and guest lectures.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Division of Psychology & Language Sciences
83% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
A flexible and interdisciplinary programme, which challenges you to use your specific knowledge to unravel the workings of the human brain.
Our brain contains many ingenious networks of millions of interconnected neurons. Together, they have a storage capacity and flexibility that far exceed modern supercomputers, or any artificial intelligent system. The Master’s specialisation in Neuroscience aims at unravelling the neuro-biological and neuro-computational mechanisms of this fascinating, complex system. We study the full spectrum from molecule to man, and from experiment to advanced theory and models.
The brain, as part of the human body, may at a first glance seem the exclusive domain of Biology. However, as the communication between neurons involves neurotransmitters and electrical ionic currents, understanding these mechanisms calls for knowledge of Chemistry and Physics. Moreover, studying mechanisms of coding and encoding of neural signals, requires advanced concepts from Mathematics and Informatics. By working together, our students learn to view complex issues from all these different sides.
Neuroscience at the Science Faculty ranges from biology to physics and mathematics, and will thus appeal to students from different Master’s programmes. The programme can be readily adapted to your individual academic background – whether that is in the field of Biology, Mathematics, Physics or Computing Science. Apart from fundamental knowledge of the brain, the Neuroscience specialisation also provides you with a general background in the principles of complex systems, and of intelligent behaviour of living and artificial systems.
- Radboud University is the only university in the Netherlands that covers the complete research field of Neuroscience, from cognition to behaviour, and from sub-cellular processes, to single cell analysis and big data.
- The specialisation is closely connected to the world-renowned Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour (DI). You will get the chance to work with DI researchers during your internship, and build up a high profile network for your future career.
- The courses have a strong focus on research: they will cover the latest developments in brain research and technology, and train you the essential academic skills.
- You will work with students and researchers from different backgrounds in the natural sciences and become acquainted with a wide variety of research methods and scientific approaches.
The brain, as part of the human body, may at a first glance seem the exclusive domain of Biology. However, as the communication between neurons involves neurotransmitters and electrical ionic currents, understanding these mechanisms calls for knowledge of Chemistry and Physics. Moreover, studying mechanisms of coding and encoding of neural signals, requires advanced concepts from Mathematics and Informatics. By working together, our students learn to view complex issues from all these different sides.
Master’s specialisation in Neuroscience
The Master’s specialisation in Neuroscience gives you the chance to work at the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, and build up your own network of international renowned scientists who are working on the human brain: an excellent preparation for a future career in science. Neuroscience will also provide you with general skills that are required for any other job you aspire:
- the ability to structure complex problems
- excellent social skills for working in a multidisciplinary team
- extensive experience in presentations
- academic writing skills
At Radboud University, all branches of Neuroscience are accounted for, and strongly intertwined through the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour (DI). This unique combination of expertises is a real advantage for Neuroscience students: it gives you absolute freedom to develop your knowledge in your field of interest and a high profile network for your future career.
- Science faculty
In this specialisation at the Science faculty, you will use your background in the natural sciences to unravel neurobiological processes. When completed, you will receive a Master’s degree in Medical Biology, Molecular Life Sciences, Physics & Astronomy or Science. For highly talented students it is possible to obtain a second Master’s degree at the selective Research Master’s in Cognitive Neuroscience of the DI, which has a more cognitive approach. This extra Master’s degree takes one additional year (60 EC) to complete.
- Themes
The Master’s specialisation in Neuroscience focuses on three of the four research themes of the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour:
- Perception, Action and Control
Focus: Studying sensorimotor mechanisms, their cognitive and social components, their clinical implications, and their relevance for robotics.
Research: Researchers use theoretical analysis, psychophysical and behavioural studies, neurophysiological techniques, neuroimaging, clinical and pharmacological interventions, developmental and genetic approaches.
- Plasticity and Memory
Focus: The development and decay of the healthy and the maladaptive brain.
Research: Researchers in this field study the mechanistic underpinnings and behavioural consequences of long-term changes in neural structure and function. Genetic, molecular and cellular methods, animal models, as well as human neuroimaging and cognitive neuropsychology are used.
- Brain Networks and Neuronal Communication
Focus: Complex neural networks, ranging from the very smallest – communication between individual neurons – to the largest: communication between different brain areas and the outside world.
Research: The research groups combine the development of new techniques for measurements of connectivity and activation, with the experimental application of these techniques in studies of cognition in humans, non-human primates and rodents. Computational modelling is an important component.
- Custom approach
The specialisation programme depends on the Master’s programme that you will follow. In this way, it will perfectly fit to your current knowledge and practical skills. However, as all neuroscience research topics are interdisciplinary, you will become acquainted with other disciplines as well. This will help you to develop a common ground that is necessary to communicate in a multi-faceted (research) team.
See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/medicalbiology/neuro
The MSc by Research in Integrative Neuroscience is a one-year, full-time research programme covering all levels of modern neuroscience, which makes it an ideal programme to prepare you for a PhD.
We include molecular, cellular, systems, regenerative, cognitive, clinical and computational neuroscience. We also allow you to choose your specialty right from the start, allowing you to shape your learning around your interests and career goals.
You start with a taught component in the first 12 weeks, and attend ‘themed weeks’ which run in parallel with elective from which you choose your optional courses. The Elective optional courses include:
The elective courses run during the first 12 weeks on two half days per week. These will give you a deeper insight into the concepts and methodology of a specific field of interest.
For your research you can choose available projects or contact principal investigators from more than 120 groups in the Edinburgh Neuroscience community to develop your own project, which can range from psychology to nanoscience.
Examples of completed projects are:
This programme is designed to help you in your research career. Over 90% of students on the MSc by Research in Integrative Neuroscience have positive next destinations, including PhD, research or clinical career paths.
Southampton’s one-year postgraduate MSc Neuroscience gives students the opportunity to specialise in the study of neuroscience, while working alongside some of the most eminent researchers at the forefront of their field.
The programme offers participants the chance to be embedded in one of the University’s cutting-edge Neuroscience research groups. It is ideal for students wishing to pursue further neuroscience PhD study or who want a career in pharmacology, neuroscience drug development, pharmaceutical companies, or patent law focused on neuroscience.
This is the course page for MSc Neuroscience degree at the University of Southampton. Find out everything about degree and research in Neurosciences and what studying here involves.
In this course page we explain a range of key information about the course. This includes typical entry requirements, modules you can take and how assessment works. We also suggest career opportunities open to you as a University of Southampton graduate MSc Neurosciences degree.
If you still have questions, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to answer any enquiries. See our contact us page for our telephone, email and address information.
Newly created modules in advanced human neuroanatomy, neuronal and glial physiology in health and disease will form the key pillars of the taught component of this program. This will be complimented by compulsory research focused, interactive experimental workshops exposing students to the extensive Neuroscience expertise in Southampton.
Workshops will focus on neuro-drug discovery, model organisms in neurological disease, dementia research including iPSC-models and neuropathological studies, neural networks, behavioural neurosciences, cell and molecular neurobiology and interdisciplinary neuroscience. Alongside students will undertake an individual extended research-based project, in one of fourteen research labs currently conducting cutting-edge neuroscience research. Research spans normal physiological function (such as circadian biology, aging processes and synaptic physiology) to neurodegenerative disease (such as dementia research, neuroinflammation, translational research). Additionally there will be a variety of optional modules on offer including a library-based dissertation, critiques on current research seminars, neuroimaging, critical thinking as well as other skills-based modules.
Students will also have the option to study allied subjects such as Psychology and Ethics in the context of Neuroscience. Teaching will be conducted in both traditional lecture-style groups as well as smaller interactive workshop based groups and practicals, led by both UoS research active neuroscientists, as well as external invited experts in the field. Throughout the programme, students will undertake independent reading both to supplement and consolidate the taught material and to broaden their knowledge and understanding of neuroscience. Through assessments, students will be taught to critically assess research papers, synthesize evidence based written scientific arguments and disseminate data through poster and oral presentations.
Are you interested in doing research to better understand normal and pathological brain function? Do you want to become a specialist in the field of neurosciences? Neuroscience and Cognition offers you the opportunity to investigate numerous areas of brain functioning that make the neuroscience and cognition field uniquely intriguing and challenging.
Neuroscience and cognition trains you to become a multidisciplinary neuro and/or cognition scientist, fully equipped to face the challenges of modern research in the interdisciplinary field of neuroscience and cognition. With ample knowledge of the scope of brain and cognitive functioning, you will be prepared to join an international research team investigating the most complex organ of our body. Sounds appealing? Neuroscience and Cognition might be a perfect fit!
Pick Experimental and Clinical Neuroscience or Cognitive Neuroscience as your track of choice and explore fundamental principles and techniques. You get to work in multidisciplinary teams together with students from various bachelor backgrounds such as Biomedical Sciences, Neuro- and Cognitive Psychology, Linguistics, or Artificial Intelligence. An ideal preparation for future research positions in public and private research institutes! After the 10-week introductory course Fundamentals of Neuroscience and Cognition, you will determine an individualised study path with the assistance of the track coordinator, consisting of quality internships, electives and a writing assignment.
