masters in neuroscience uk

Neuroscientists combine skills in science and research to explore the brain, spinal cord and nervous system. We have researched the top masters in neuroscience uk options. Hence, this article on masters in neuroscience requirements. Below, in this article, you will find masters in neuroscience online. Read on to discover them.

As a neuroscientist, you’ll work to understand and develop treatments for a range of neurological issues. These include the brain’s function in mental health challenges such as depression or schizophrenia, the impact of trauma on the brain such as stroke and head injury, or the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as epilepsy, motor neurone disease or Alzheimer’s disease.

Most neuroscientists are involved in research, working in a range of settings such as universities, pharmaceutical companies or government agencies.

Neuroscientists differ from neurologists and neurosurgeons, who are medically qualified doctors. They’re also different from neuropsychologists, who are clinical psychologists with further training in neuropsychology.

masters in neuroscience requirements

masters in neuroscience uk

Neuroscience is a fast-moving, multidisciplinary subject that has advanced rapidly over recent years. It has developed a collaborative approach that combines aspects from a range of disciplines including computer science, chemistry, medicine, engineering, linguistics and mathematics.

Consequently, there are neuroscientists working in:

  • academia (research and teaching)
  • clinical sciences
  • biotechnology and contract research
  • pharmaceutical/drug development
  • neuropsychology
  • neuroimaging or brain-imaging
  • regulatory affairs, policy and research administration
  • science communication and public engagement.

Within these areas, there is a range of neuroscientist specialisms. For example, you could focus on cognitive neuroscience, working to understand how the brain creates and controls thought, memory, language and behaviour. Alternatively, you may look into the effect of drugs on behaviour or treat disorders of the brain and nervous system as a clinical neuroscientist.

For more information on the different areas of neuroscience, see BrainFacts.

Responsibilities

Your responsibilities will depend on your area of specialism, but in general, you’ll need to:

  • design and carry out experiments to understand more about the brain and nervous system
  • study and test samples of brain tissue
  • use techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) to watch the brain ‘at work’
  • research and develop new treatments for neurological disorders
  • hold meetings with scientific colleagues to discuss your findings and ideas for potential research projects
  • research and develop the techniques and equipment used by medical staff in clinical trials
  • work with doctors and other health specialists to trial new drugs with patients
  • use theoretical, statistical and computer-based models to analyse data
  • use computer programming within your research
  • carry out regular literature reviews of neuroscience research
  • share your research in peer-reviewed journals
  • attend and present at national or international conferences.

Salary

  • Research assistants in neuroscience can earn between £25,000 and £35,000.
  • Starting salaries for postdoctoral researchers are between £32,000 and £45,000.
  • Experienced and senior neuroscientists earn salaries of £50,000 to £60,000 or more.

Income figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

Working hours tend to be standard office hours, from 9am to 5pm. You may need to be flexible to suit the availability of participants in research projects, or when attending conferences. Paid overtime is rare, but you may be offered time off to compensate for extra hours you have worked.

Many research projects run for a specified period, often one to three years. This means that contracts are usually fixed term to suit the project. Roles within industry, such as in the pharmaceutical sector, are more likely to be permanent.

What to expect

  • Much of the work is lab based, but you’ll also spend time completing administrative tasks in an office setting.
  • The route to becoming a neuroscientist can feel very long, and even after a PhD you may have to take several temporary research contracts to gain enough experience to move into a permanent position.
  • Although neuroscience is a growing field, jobs are not available in high numbers. This means you’ll usually need to be flexible and willing to relocate in order to find work. 
  • Neuroscience is an exciting field, with many discoveries yet to be made. It’s possible that your research could have a direct impact on people’s lives, such as contributing to a cure for Parkinson’s disease.
  • Neuroscience is a global industry, and you can find work around the world. There are also opportunities to travel to conferences and form research collaborations in many different countries.

UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology

Be part of the next generation of neuroscience expertsVisit

Qualifications

Most neuroscientists complete a science-based undergraduate degree followed by a PhD. Some will also complete a Masters degree.

There are several neuroscience undergraduate degrees to choose from, as well as combined degrees such as neuroscience with psychology. For a list of neuroscience undergraduate and postgraduate courses, see British Neuroscience Association (BNA) – Neuroscience courses in the UK.

As neuroscience combines many scientific disciplines, there are a range of physical and life sciences degrees that can form a starting point to your career. These include:

  • biochemistry
  • biology
  • biomedical sciences
  • pharmacology
  • psychology.

It’s also possible to enter neuroscience with a degree in computer science, chemistry, engineering or physics.

Although you may be able to start working as a research assistant in neuroscience without a PhD or a Masters, these roles are competitive, and so you’re likely to be at an advantage if you have a postgraduate qualification.

Another advantage of postgraduate study is that it will further develop the research skills that are so essential for working as a neuroscientist.

After completing a PhD you’ll usually move into a postdoctoral research position, in order to get more laboratory experience. It’s also possible, however, to move straight into an industry position.

Some organisations offer free MOOCs and online courses relating to neurosciences, which provide a good starting point for developing your skills and understanding in the area. For a list of courses, see the BNA website.

Skills

You’ll need to have:

  • a keen interest in how all aspects of the nervous system work and what goes wrong in disease states, for example in neuropsychiatric diseases
  • strong research skills in design, implementation and analysis, including lab work
  • the ability to think critically
  • strong communication skills to interact with research subjects and their families, or with clients in industry
  • scientific writing skills to contribute to journals, magazines or manuals
  • a willingness to develop your computer and programming skills and to embrace statistical methods and mathematical analysis to work with data
  • patience, as research progresses slowly
  • the ability to work independently, as well as within project teams and across disciplines
  • excellent organisational and time-management skills
  • the motivation to read scientific research to keep your knowledge up to date and inform your own work.

Work experience

Neuroscience can be a challenging area to find work experience in and it’s important to focus on improving your research skills. Some universities offer opportunities for you to help academics or postgraduate students with their research during term time or over the summer. The British Neuroscience Association (BNA) provides a list of organisations that offer funding for 6-8 week undergraduate summer research placements. You need to approach labs or researchers to ask about participating in research before applying for funding.

You may also be able to participate in research experiments that other students are conducting as part of their programmes. Many universities will pay you a small amount of money to encourage participation, but the real benefit is that you experience many different forms of research, which will increase your effectiveness at designing your own experiments.

Many large pharmaceutical companies offer summer internships, which will give you valuable experience and enable you to develop your research skills.

Many voluntary opportunities are available with charities that support people who are struggling with neurological issues such as Parkinson’s, dementia or brain injuries. This type of experience provides an insight into the lived experience of neurological disorders or degeneration and the types of people who may be involved in your research. Most charities advertise volunteering opportunities on their websites. If you prefer paid work, there are care-based roles, which are often part time and flexible, within the NHS or private residential settings.

Find out more about the different kinds of work experience and internships that are available.

Employers

Neuroscientists are employed across the public and private sector, often working in laboratory-based environments within:

  • universities
  • government departments
  • contract research organisations
  • the NHS
  • the pharmaceutical industry
  • food industries.

Research goes through cycles, with different types of employers often focusing on a similar problem, such as dementia. This means that it’s possible to move from one type of employer to another, as the experience and skills you develop are transferable. Even where research topics vary, many neuroscientists transition from one sector to another. 

Neuroscientists may also be employed within medical or scientific publishing, and science journalism.

Look for job vacancies at:

Professional development

The kind of training and opportunities for professional development available will depend to a certain extent on the sector you work in, for example academia or industry. Wherever you work, however, you’ll need to keep your skills and knowledge up to date throughout your career.

In academia, for example, the focus of training may be on critical aspects of your work, such as getting your work published in academic journals and writing bids to win funding for your research. In industry you may spend time learning about the legal aspects of clinical trials or the drug development process.

In either area, you’ll attend conferences and collaborate with other neuroscientists around the world to help understand what your peers are researching. You may also present your own research.

You will also undertake specialist training in emerging experimental methodologies, techniques and technologies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound or statistical modelling software.

Membership of the BNA provides access to a range or resources, training and events, as well as opportunities to network with other neuroscientists.

Career prospects

A range of factors is driving growth in the number of neuroscientists around the world. For example, as people continue to live longer, more funding is being made available to tackle problems with age-related neurological decline such as dementia. Also, as artificial intelligence continues to evolve, there is increasing demand for neuroscientists to create smarter interfaces between humans and machines. The rapid evolution of brain imaging techniques means that neuroscientists are in a unique position to share insights into human behaviour.

These developments mean that there are good opportunities to progress your career in a wide range of industries, including government policy, education and business. It can take time to get established, however, and develop your career in your chosen area. Flexibility in terms of relocation to find work is helpful.

Career progression depends on the sector you work in. Neuroscientists working in universities, for example, may pursue an academic pathway or teach alongside their research. Academic careers are highly competitive, and you’ll often have to undertake a number of short, fixed-term contracts before securing a permanent role.

If you’re working in industry, you’ll typically progress into a senior scientist role or become the lead for a specific research area, sometimes known as a research development manager. This may involve managing other neuroscientists and having overall responsibility for a piece of research.

masters in neuroscience online

NEUROSCIENCE COURSES IN THE UK

ContentsUndergraduate coursesPostgraduate opportunitiesDoctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs)

Undergraduate courses

Neuroscience undergraduate and integrated master’s courses

UniversityLocationUCAS Code/ Course TitleQualificationDuration/Study ModeLink
Aston UniversityBirminghamB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of BirminghamBirminghamB140 Human NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of BristolBristolB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of BristolBristolB141 NeuroscienceMSci4yrs/FTWebsite
Cardiff UniversityCardiffB142 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Cardiff UniversityCardiffB143 Neuroscience including Professional Training YearBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
Cardiff UniversityCardiff37JL NeuroscienceMNeurosc4yrs/FTWebsite
Cardiff UniversityCardiff4K5G Neuroscience with Professional Training YearMNeurosc5yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of Central LancashirePrestonB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of Central LancashirePrestonN456 Neuroscience (Foundation Entry)BSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of DundeeDundeeB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of EdinburghEdinburghB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of ExeterExeterB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of ExeterExeterB141 Neuroscience with professional placementBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of GlasgowGlasgowB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleB141 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleB141 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleB141 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleB143 Neuroscience with Science Foundation YearBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleB143 Neuroscience with Foundation YearBSc (Hons)3.5yrs/FTWebsite
(KCL) King’s College LondonLondonB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of LeedsLeedsB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of LeedsLeedsB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of LeedsLeedsB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
University of LeedsLeedsB149 NeuroscienceMBiol (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of LeedsLeedsB149 NeuroscienceMBiol (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of LeedsLeedsB149 NeuroscienceMBiol (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
University of ManchesterManchesterB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of ManchesterManchester3L47 NeuroscienceMSci4yrs/FTWebsite
University of ManchesterManchesterB143 Neuroscience with industrial/professional experienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Middlesex UniversityBarnetB14A NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Middlesex UniversityBarnetB14F Neuroscience with Foundation YearBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
Middlesex UniversityBarnetB14F Neuroscience with Foundation YearBSc (Hons)6yrs/PTWebsite
University of NottinghamNottinghamB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of NottinghamNottinghamB141 NeuroscienceMsci (Hon)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of PlymouthPlymouthC849 Human NeuroscienceMPsych4yrs/FTWebsite
University of PlymouthPlymouthC849 Human NeuroscienceMPsych5yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Queen Mary UniversityLondonB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Queen Mary UniversityLondonB14Y Neuroscience with a Year AbroadBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
University of St AndrewsSt AndrewsB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of SouthamptonSouthamptonB141 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of SouthamptonSouthamptonB140 NeuroscienceMSci4yrs/FTWebsite
University of SussexBrightonB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of SussexBrightonB101 NeuroscienceMSci (Hon)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of SussexBrightonB142 Medical NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of SussexBrightonB143 Medical NeuroscienceMSci (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
UCL (University College London)LondonB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
UCL (University College London)LondonB141 NeuroscienceMSci (Hon)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of WarwickWarwickB140 NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of WarwickWarwickB141 Neuroscience with placement yearBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of WarwickWarwickB142 NeuroscienceMBio4yrs/FTWebsite
University of WarwickWarwickB143 Neuroscience with industrial placementMBio4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website

Back to top

UniversityLocationUCAS Code/ Course TitleQualificationDuration/Study ModeLink
University of AberdeenAberdeenB170 Neuroscience with PsychologyBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of AberdeenAberdeenB1C8 Neuroscience with Psychology with Industrial PlacementMsci (Hon)5yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Aston UniversityBirminghamH190 Foundation Programme in Science: Biosciences and PharmacyBSc (Hons)4-5yrs/FTWebsite
Bangor UniversityBangorC801 Psychology with NeuropsychologyBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of BoltonBoltonC820 Psychology and Cognitive NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of BoltonBoltonC820 Psychology and Cognitive NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/PTWebsite
University of BristolBristolCB81 Psychology and NeuroscienceMSci4yrs/FTWebsite
University of Central LancashirePrestonC860 NeuropsychologyBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Durham UniversityDurhamCL86 Psychology and AnthropologyBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of EssexEssexC808 Psychology with Cognitive NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of EssexEssexC806 Psychology with Cognitive Neuroscience (Including Year Abroad)BSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
University of EssexEssexC999 Psychology with Cognitive Neuroscience (Four-year integrated Masters)MSci4yrs/FTWebsite
University of EssexEssexC813 Psychology with Cognitive Neuroscience (including Foundation Year)BSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of EssexEssexC809 Psychology with Cognitive Neuroscience (including placement year)BSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of EssexEssexCA98 Psychology with Cognitive Neuroscience (Integrated Masters) including placement yearMSci5yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of EssexEssexCA99 Psychology with Cognitive Neuroscience (Integrated Masters) including year abroadMSci5yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
University of EssexEssexB099 Biomedical Science (Four-year integrated Masters)MSci4yrs/FTWebsite
University of EssexEssexBA99 Biomedical Science (Four-year integrated Masters) including placement yearMSci5yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of EssexEssexBB99 Biomedical Science (Four-year integrated Masters) including year abroadMSci5yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
University of EssexEssexC998 Psychology with Advances Research Methods (Four-year integrated Masters)MSci4yrs/FTWebsite
University of EssexEssexH172 Neural Engineering with Psychology (including Foundation Year)BEng4yrs/FTWebsite
GoldsmithsLondonC991 Psychology with Cognitive NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleBC17 Biochemistry and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleBC17 Biochemistry and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleBC17 Biochemistry and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleBF11 Chemistry and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleBF11 Chemistry and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleBF11 Chemistry and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleBG14 Computer Science and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleBG14 Computer Science and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleBG14 Computer Science and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleGB41 Data Science and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleGB41 Data Science and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleGB41 Data Science and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleFB41 Forensic Science and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleFB41 Forensic Science and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleFB41 Forensic Science and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleBFC1 Medicinal Chemistry and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleBFC1 Medicinal Chemistry and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleBFC1 Medicinal Chemistry and NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleBC18 Neuroscience and PsychologyBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleBC18 Neuroscience and PsychologyBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
Keele UniversityKeeleBC18 Neuroscience and PsychologyBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
(KCL) King’s College LondonLondonC845 Neuroscience and PsychologyBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
(KCL) King’s College LondonLondonC846 Neuroscience and Psychology with year abroadBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
(KCL) King’s College LondonLondonC847 Neuroscience and Psychology with a professional placement yearBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of LeedsLeedsB100 Biomedical SciencesBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of LeedsLeedsB100 Biomedical SciencesBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of LeedsLeedsB100 Biomedical SciencesBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
University of LeedsLeedsB109 Biomedical SciencesMBiol (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of LeedsLeedsB109 Biomedical SciencesMBiol (Hons)5yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of LeedsLeedsB109 Biomedical SciencesMBiol (Hons)5yrs/FT (Sandwich abroad)Website
University of LeicesterLeicesterB140 Biological Sciences (Neuroscience)BSc (Hons)3-4yrs/FT (Optional Sandwich)Website
University of LeicesterLeicesterC8BC Psychology with Cognitive NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3-4yrs/FTWebsite
University of LeicesterLeicesterB143 Biological Sciences (Neuroscience)MBiolSci4-5yrs/FT (Optional Sandwich)Website
University of ManchesterManchesterBC18 Cognitive Neuroscience and PsychologyBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of ManchesterManchesterBCC8 Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology with Industrial/Professional ExperienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website
University of ManchesterManchesterB147 Neuroscience with EntrepreneurshipBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of ManchesterManchesterBC20 Cognitive Neuroscience and PsychologyMSci4yrs/FTWebsite
University of ManchesterManchesterB144 Neuroscience with a Modern LanguageBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
Middlesex UniversityBarnetC832 Psychology with NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Middlesex UniversityBarnetC0FY Psychology with Neuroscience with Foundation YearBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of NottinghamNottinghamC850 Psychology and Cognitive NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of ReadingReadingC8B1 Psychology with NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
Royal Holloway UniversityEghamC807 Psychology, Clinical & Cognitive NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of SouthamptonSouthamptonC800 PsychologyBSc (Hons)4yrs/FTWebsite
University of SussexBrightonCB81 Psychology with NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of WestminsterLondonB140 Cognitive and Clinical NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)3yrs/FTWebsite
University of WestminsterLondonB140 Cognitive and Clinical NeuroscienceBSc (Hons)4yrs/FT (Sandwich)Website

Neuroscience postgraduate courses

Master’s courses in Neuroscience

UniversityLocationUCAS Code/ Course TitleQualificationDuration/Study ModeLink
University of Central LancashirePrestonNeuroscience (Taught)MRes1yr/FTWebsite
University of EdinburghEdinburghNeuroscience (Integrative Neuroscience) (Research)MSc (Res)1yr/FTWebsite
University of EdinburghEdinburghNeuroscience (Biomedical Sciences) (Research)MSc (Res)1yr/FT/PTWebsite
(KCL) King’s College LondonLondonNeuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of LeedsLeedsNeuroscience (Taught)MRes1yr/FTWebsite
University of ManchesterManchesterNeuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of ManchesterManchesterNeuroscience (Research)MPhil1yr/FT/PTWebsite
Newcastle UniversityNewcastleNeuroscience (Taught)MRes1yr/FTWebsite
University of OxfordOxfordNeuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of SheffieldSheffieldNeuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of SouthamptonSouthamptonNeuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of St AndrewsSt AndrewsNeuroscience (Taught)MRes1yr/FTWebsite
University of SussexBrightonNeuroscience (Taught)MRes1yr/FTWebsite
University of SussexBrightonNeuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite

Back to top

Master’s courses in Translational Neuroscience

UniversityLocationUCAS Code/ Course TitleQualificationDuration/Study ModeLink
University of CambridgeCambridgeBasic and Translational Neuroscience (Research)MPhil1yr/FTWebsite
Queen Mary UniversityLondonNeuroscience and Translational MedicineMSc1yr/FTWebsite
Queen Mary UniversityLondonNeuroscience and Translational MedicinePgCert1yr/PTWebsite
Queen Mary UniversityLondonNeuroscience and Translational MedicinePgDip1yr/FTWebsite
University of SheffieldSheffieldTranslational Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite

Back to top

UniversityLocationUCAS Code/ Course TitleQualificationDuration/Study ModeLink
Anglia Ruskin UniversityCambridgeCognitive and Clinical Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
Aston UniveristyBirminghamCognitive and Affective Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
Birkbeck UniversityLondonEducational Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
Birkbeck UniversityLondonEducational Neuroscience (Taught)MA1yr/FT/PTWebsite
Birkbeck UniversityLondonCognitive Neuroscience and Neuropsychology (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
Birkbeck UniversityLondonCognitive Neuroscience and Neuropsychology (Taught)MA1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of BirminghamBirminghamBrain Imaging and Cognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of BoltonBoltonSocial Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1.5yr/FT/PTWebsite
Bournemouth UniversityPooleCognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of BristolBristolMolecular Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of BristolBristolEducation (Neuroscience and Education) (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of BristolBristolPhysiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience (Research)MRes1yr/FT/PTWebsite
Brunel UniversityLondonCognitive and Clinical Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
City University of LondonLondonClinical, Social and Cognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of DundeeDundeeApplied Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
Durham UniversityDurhamCognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
(UEA) University of East AngliaNorwichCognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of EssexEssexCognitive Neuroscience and Neuropsychology (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
Goldsmiths UniversityLondonCognitive and Clinical Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
Goldsmiths UniversityLondonComputational Cognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
Keele UniversityKeeleCognition and Cognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
(KCL) King’s College LondonLondonApplied Neuroscience (Taught)MSc2yr/Distance LearningWebsite
(KCL) King’s College LondonLondonApplied Neuroscience (Taught)PgDip1.5yr/Distance LearningWebsite
(KCL) King’s College LondonLondonClinical Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of LeicesterLeicesterResearch Methods in Neuroscience (Taught)MRes1yr/FT/PTWebsite
London South Bank UniversityLondonNursing (Neuroscience Care) (Taught)MSc3yr/PTWebsite
University of ManchesterManchesterCognitive Neuroscience (Research)MPhil1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of ManchesterManchesterNeuroimaging for Clinical and Cognitive NeuroscienceMSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of NottinghamNottinghamComputational Neuroscience, Cognition and AIMSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of NottinghamNottinghamNeuroscience and Neuropathology (Research)MRes1yr/FTWebsite
University of OxfordOxfordClinical and Therapeutic Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of PlymouthPlymouthHuman Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of ReadingReadingCognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of ReadingReadingCellular and Molecular Neuroscience (by Research) (Taught)MRes1yr/FTWebsite
University of RoehamptonLondonClinical Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of RoehamptonLondonApplied Cognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of SheffieldSheffieldNeuroscience and Neurodegeneration (Taught)MSc3yr/PTWebsite
University of SheffieldSheffieldSystems Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of SheffieldSheffieldCognitive Neuroscience and Human Neuroimaging (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of SheffieldSheffieldCognitive and Computational Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
Sheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldClinical Cognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of StrathclydeGlasgowNeuroscience and Mental Health (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of SussexBrightonCognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
Swansea UniversitySwanseaCognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FT/PTWebsite
University of YorkYorkCognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite
University of YorkYorkDevelopmental Cognitive Neuroscience (Taught)MSc1yr/FTWebsite

Back to top

In addition to master’s in neuroscience, there are a number of related courses including: 

  • Clinical Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Educational Neuroscience
  • Molecular Neuroscience
  • Sensory Neuroscience
  • Behavioural Neuroscience
  • Experimental Neuroscience
  • Social Neuroscience
  • Translational Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuropsychology
  • Basic and Translational Neuroscience 
  • Brain Imaging and Cognitive Neuroscience 
  • Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience 
  • Clinical Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Clinical, Social and Cognitive Neuroscience 
  • Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience 
  • Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Neuroscience and Human Neuroimaging
  • Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging
  • Computational Cognitive Neuroscience 
  • Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Robotics
  • Computational Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics
  • Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience 
  • Developmental Neuroscience and Psychopathology
  • Neuroimaging for Clinical and Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Neuroscience Research Training 
  • Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology 
  • Systems / Behavioural Neuroscience 
  • Translational Pathology (Neuroscience) 
  • Dementia (Causes, Treatments and Research in Neuroscience)
  • Language Sciences (with specialisation in Linguistics with Neuroscience)
  • Language Sciences (with specialisation in Neuroscience and Communication) 
  • Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Applied Neuropsychology
  • Clinical Neuropsychology 
  • Applied Paediatric Neuropsychology 
  • Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology 
  • Clinical Paediatric Neuropsychology 
  • Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology
  • Foundations of Clinical Neuropsychology 
  • Human Cognitive Neuropsychology 
  • Principles of Applied Neuropsychology 
  • Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences 

Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs)

DTPs provide competition-funded PhD projects over 3.5-4 years to support early career research students. If you know of programmes which offer neuroscience-related projects which are not listed here, please let us know at office@bna.org.uk.
 

CourseInstitution(s)Course length (years)Projects offered / research themesDeadline
EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Medical Imaging
(KCL) King’s College London; Imperial College London1 + 3 (MRes + PhD)Medical imaging including AI-enabled imaging; smart imaging probes; emerging imaging & affordable imaging.Applications open in November 2021 for 2022 intake.
Sainsbury Wellcome Centre PhD programme
University College London (Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour)1 + 3 (MRes + PhD)Systems, theoretical & experimental neuroscience.Applications open in September 2021 for 2022 intake.
Oxford BBSRC Interdisciplinary Bioscience DTP
University of Oxford; Pirbright Institute, Oxford Brookes University; Diamond Light Source; ISIS Neutron and Muon Source; STFC Central Laser Facility; Research Complex at Harwell1 + 3 (MRes + PhD)Integrative animal & plant biology; mechanistic molecular and cellular biology; bioscience for food, industry & health; including crop science; animal health & welfare; synthetic biology; industrial biotechnology & the development of innovative approaches for drug discovery and pharmaceutical production.Applications open in September 2021 for 2022 intake.
Manchester MRC DTP
University of Manchester3.5Early detection & diagnosis; understanding mechanisms of disease; therapeutic interventions; precision medicine; harnessing health data; materials & medicine.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Manchester BBSRC DTP
University of Manchester1 + 3 (MRes + PhD)Multidisciplinary challenges for students with backgrounds including bioscience, biomedical, mathematical & physical sciences.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
MRC GW4 BioMed DTP
University of Bath; University of Bristol; Cardiff University; University of Exeter3.5Infection, immuny & repair; neuroscience & mental health; population health.Applications open in October 2021 for 2022 intake.
Kings MRC DTP studentships in biomedical science
(KCL) King’s College London; Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust; King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust3.5 (PhD) or 1+3 (Mres + PhD)Molecules, cells & the basis for disease; neurosciences, psychiatry & mental health; physiological medicine; imaging & biomedical engineering.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Cambridge MRC DTP
University of Cambridge (Bambraham Institute)3.5Population & systems medicine; infections & immunity; molecular & cellular; neurosciences & mental health.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
South West Biosciences DTP
University of Bath; University of Bristol; Cardiff University; University of Exeter; Rothamsted Research; The Marine Biological Association; Plymouth Marine Laboratory; SETSquared Bristol; Swansea University; University of the West of England1 + 3 (MRes + PhD)Biomolecular & biophysical studies; agriculture & the environment; animal behaviour & in vivo studies.Applications open in October 2021 for 2022 intake.
EastBio BBSRC DTP
University of Aberdeen; University of Dundee; University of Edinburgh; University of St Andrews; University of Stirling; Scotish Universities Life Sciences Alliance; the James Hutton Institute; Cool Farm Alliance; Moredun Research Institute4Basic bioscience underpinning health (ageing); bioenergy & industrial biotechnology; food security and world-class bioscience.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Imperial MRC DTP
Imperial College London3.5 or 4.5Informatics for health; experimental medicine; infection & antimicrobial resistanceApplications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Edinburgh Wellcome PhD in Translational Neuroscience
University of Edinburgh1 + 3Translation neuroscience using experimental technology (e.g. cellular, regenerative, computational, genetic, animal models) & analytical tools to bridge the knowledge gap between the design, execution and interpretation of cellular/animal experiments & the challenges of experimental medicine.Applications open in October 2021 for 2022 intake.
Cambridge BBSRC DTP
University of Cambridge4Understanding the rules of life; transformative technologies; bioscience for sustainable agriculture & food; bioscience for renewable sources & clean growth; bioscience for an integrated understanding of health.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Nottingham BBSRC DTP
University of Nottingham4Agriculture & food security; bioscience for health; biotechnologyApplications open in November 2021 for 2022 intake.
PhD in Molecular, Genetic, and Lifecourse Epidemiology
University of Bristol1 + 3We are training a new generation of scientists who can harness the benefits of an epidemiological approach in exciting and productive ways.Applications open in autumn of 2021 for 2022 intake.
MRC-Sackler PhD fellowships
King’s College London (MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders)1 + 3 (MRes + PhD)Epilepsy; autism spectrum disorder; schizophrenia; common genetic mechanisms in neurodevelopmental disorders; understanding functional variation in neurodevelopmental disorders.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Newcastle/Liverpool/Durham (NLD) BBSRC DTP
Newcastle University; University of Liverpool; Durham University1 + 3Agriculture & food security; bioscience for health; world-class underpinning bioscience; industrial biotechnology & bioenergy.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
MRC PhD DTP in Quantitative and Interdisciplinary approaches to biomedical science (QIBIOMED)
University of Dundee1 + 3 (MRes + PhD)Development, stem cells & neurobiology; infection & disease; responses to cellular stress; big data & translation.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Sussex Neuroscience 4-Year PhD Programme
University of Sussex4Cellular & molecular neuroscience; cognitive & behavioural neuroscience; circuits, systems & computational neuroscience; translational & clinical neuroscience.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Oxford MRC DTP
Oxford University4Infection & immunology; neuroscience (incorporating psychology & psychiatry); cancer; population health, genomics & genes.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
BBSRC London Interdisciplinary Doctoral training PhD (LIDo)
Birkbeck University; (KCL) King’s College London; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine; University of Greenwich; Queen Mary University; Royal Holloway University; Royal Vetinary College; University College London4Food security; industrial biotechnology & bioenergy; world-class bioscience; molecules, cells & organisms.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership (MIBTP)
University of Birmingham; University of Leicester; University of Warwick; Harper Adams University; Aston University4Sustainable Agriculture & Food; Understanding the Rules of Life; Renewable Resources & Clean Growth; Integrated Understanding of HealthApplications open in October 2021 for 2022 intake.
UCL-Birkbeck MRC DTP
Birkbeck University, University College London1 + 3Fundamental mechanisms of disease; experimental & personalised medicine; neuroscience & mental health; populations, people & data across the life course.Applications closed for 2021. Check website for when 2022 intake applications open.
Warwick MRC DTP
Warwick University1 + 3 (MSc + PhD)Molecular, cellular & tissue dynamics; microbiology & infection; applied biomedical technologies; artificial intelligence & data science.Applications open in autumn of 2021 for 2022 intake.

Best Countries To Study Abroad

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is paris-city-lights.jpg

Studying abroad is a great way to develop additional social, academic and language skills, whilst adding an unparalleled depth to your university experience. Study overseas can enhance your university years, and will also ultimately give you a competitive advantage when it comes to finding employment, as recruiters seek out those who have proactively pursued different ways to broaden their experience. If you are considering completing all or some of your university studies overseas, check out this summary of the best countries to study abroad.

France

CoupleWalkingHoldingHandsInPark-850x400

Romantic Paris consistently tops lists of the best cities for students. Although the vibrant night life, thriving cultural scene, and the prospect of long walks along the left bank of the Seine are surely partly the reason, the almost non-existent tuition fees also help. Whilst much undergraduate teaching is carried out in French, graduate education is often available in English. Or take the opportunity to brush up your French and attend a course given in the ‘language of love’.

United States

xf78kwfbb9ze3qrxo9to

The choice of Universities in the US is quite mind-boggling. From internationally renowned ivy league institutions to hubs of innovation and cutting edge thought, whatever you study here you will have opportunities to add to your life experience. Over 750000 international students attend university in the US every year, and despite the high costs of fees, students love living in both Boston and San Fransisco enough for both cities to rank among top student cities. But if you sign up to study and decide that you would like a change of scenery, switching between universities in the US is not unusual.

Germany

BMW-M4-Coupe-Side-Crystal-City-Car-2014-Black-White-4K-Wallpapers-design-by-Tony-Kokhan-www.el-tony.com_

As one of the economic powerhouses of Europe, Germany has more going for it than just Oktoberfest. It is also one of the best known European destinations for free (or almost free) university tuition fees, which might explain why outside of anglophone nations (the UK, US and Australia) it is the country with the highest number of international students. Head to Munich to attend an internationally rated university without breaking the bank, or Berlin to join the thriving tech hub and immerse yourself in the German take on hipster culture.

Canada

View from the Niblet

Toronto ranked recently as the most desirable city for students, among an impressive three Canadian cities in total to make the top 15. With cities this attractive it is no wonder that 6.5% of students in post secondary education in Canada come from abroad. With a vibrant culture, stunning natural environment and massive regional variations, Canada offers lots to explore for visiting students, in addition to several internationally ranked universities.

Taiwan

theancestors

Taipei was recently ranked as the most affordable city for students around the globe. Tuition fees are low, and the high quality of education can make this a great choice. Learn more about the local history and politics, as well as experiencing life in a new culture, where old and new come together in a vibrant symphony.

Argentina

Futbol soccer fan face paint from Argentina photo by Monte Isom

Argentinian students enjoy free university tuition, and although international students must pay a nominal enrolment fee, the costs are still low outside of the private institutions. The University of Belgrano gets a special mention, as a modern and well equipped facility just outside of downtown Buenos Aires, with great global connections. Take the time in Argentina to perfect your Spanish and maybe even learn to tango.

Australia

2012021453106921

Australia is one of the world’s most popular places for international students – and with sandy beaches, year round sunshine and a relaxed outdoors lifestyle, it is no surprise. Australian universities welcome international students and are well prepared to support newcomers. Considering its relatively small population, Australia has an unusually high number of institutions making the top hundred for university academic rankings, making it the perfect destination for sun, sand and academic success.

South Korea

south-korea-new-president-630x329

Who didn’t love Gangnam style? Get to the heart of K-Pop by studying in Seoul. And if you’re not a catchy-pop-tune kind of person, then you will be delighted to hear that the capital – as well as being a seriously fast paced fun place – is home to 14 internationally rated universities. Get outside your comfort zone and learn about an amazing culture whilst improving both your academic record and your CV.

United Kingdom

london

The UK has a wide variety of high quality universities, and although fees vary across institutions and can be fairly high, it is worth seeking out scholarship opportunities. Students often work to support their studies, and flexible opportunities to fit around university schedules are not unusual. With a melting pot of cultures, a mix of location from cutting edge urban to sleepy rural idyll, students in the UK never need to be bored.

Denmark

cykler_kasper_thyge

If you are from the EU/EEA or Switzerland then you may be eligible for free university tuition in Denmark. And if you are intending to pursue a PhD, there are even opportunities to study whilst earning a salary as this higher level study comes fully funded. The costs of living are undeniably high, but Denmark provides a fascinating base to explore Europe and experience nordic culture at its best.

Wherever you go, studying overseas is about more than the academic qualifications you may gain.  Showing the curiosity, organisational skills and ambition to arrange a period of study overseas is a great selling point. Whether you are heading off for your entire university program, for a semester or two, or even to study during the summer holidays, you are gathering armfuls of skills and experiences that will stand you head and shoulders above competitors when it comes to looking for graduate jobs. Take the opportunity to combine study and travel, and immerse yourself in a new culture to broaden your horizons. You won’t regret it.

Leave a Reply