Programme Specification for the 2023/4 academic year
MSc Neuroscience
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | MSc Neuroscience | Programme code | PTS1EMSEMS15 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Academic year | 2023/4 | |
| Campus(es) | St Luke's (Exeter) |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 7 (Masters) |
2. Description of the Programme
Neuroscience is transforming our understanding of the brain. Taught by specialist academics, this research-led programme will give you comprehensive knowledge of translational Neuroscience, and allow you to apply this in a research project with one of our world-leading neuroscience research teams.
Taught through the lens of the contemporary research landscape, you will learn through a combination of online lectures, weekly in-person small group teaching, and workshops focused on applying your knowledge to the critical appraisal of research studies. You will develop your knowledge in areas including molecular and cellular neuroscience, neurodegenerative diseases, neuroendocrinology, and behavioural and systems neuroscience
The latest teaching techniques will be used to ensure an engaging and stimulating programme. The course will follow a blended (face-to-face and online) format, this allows you to benefit from the flexibility of online fact-based lectures and focused in-person teaching in small groups to develop critical thinking and research skills.
You will also undertake an extended research project to enable you to develop hands-on practical training in research techniques. This programme aims to equip you with the knowledge and transferable skills for employment or further study.
Upon graduation , you will be well placed to undertake PhD study or pursue careers within biomedical research, the NHS, teaching, Civil Service, the charity sector or medicine/veterinary medicine. The flexible nature of the course allows full-time study over 1 year or part-time over two or three years.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
The programme has been designed to gain comprehensive knowledge in translational neuroscience and to learn how to apply this knowledge practically in an extended research project with one of our world-leading neuroscience research teams. The course will cover areas including molecular and cellular neuroscience, neurodegenerative diseases, neuroendocrinology, and behavioural and systems neuroscience.
The programme consists of 5 core taught modules (the first taught module is 30 credits while the others are all 15 credits at Masters level), along with an extended research project (90 credits at Masters level). A blended approach to learning will be achieved through online lectures, bespoke small-group tutorials, laboratory visits and practical exercises. The course has been designed flexibly to allow full-time study over 1 year or part-time over two or three years. All learning will be supported by online resources and moderated activities on the University of Exeter’s electronic learning environment (ELE). Expert tutors and guest lecturers will represent an appropriately diverse range of expertise from clinical and research backgrounds resulting in stimulating and current content taught to maximise student engagement.
4. Programme Structure
The MSc Neuroscience is a one-year (studied full-time) or two to three years (if studied part-time) programme of study at National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 7) (as confirmed against the FHEQ). The programme is divided into modules of study, which are assigned a number of credits. The credit rating of a module is proportional to the total workload, with 15 credits being nominally equivalent to 150 hours of work, 30 and 90 credits being nominally equivalent to 300 and 900 hours of work respectively.
The Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) in Neuroscience is also offered, consisting of 60 credits of taught modules.
These awards are offered in the following five configurations:
- PGCert: 1 year part-time – 1 x 30 credit compulsory taught module and 2 x 15 taught modules of students choice
- MSc: 1 year full time: 1 x 30 credit taught module, 4 x 15 credit modules plus 90 credit Neuroscience Research Dissertation
- MSc: 2 years part-time: Year 1: 1 x 30 credit taught module and 4 x 15 credit modules; Year 2: 90 Neuroscience Research Dissertation .
- MSc 3 years part-time: Year 1: 1 x 30 credit taught module and 2 X 15 credit taught modules; Year 2: 2 x 15 credit taught modules + taught element of Neuroscience Research Dissertation ( 30 credits); Year 3: Neuroscience Research Dissertation lab/practical element ( 60 credits).
Interim / Exit Awards
Note: Guidance on Interim and Exit awards (and the difference between them) can be viewed here: http://as.exeter.ac.uk/academic-policy-standards/tqa-manual/pma/introduction/#exit-interim
Interim:
- PGCert Neuroscience
Exit:
- PGCert Neuroscience
- PGDip Neuroscience
5. Programme Modules
Stage 1
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEUM001 | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | 30 | No |
| NEUM002 | Seminars in Neuroscience | 15 | No |
| NEUM003 | Behavioural and Systems Neuroscience | 15 | No |
| NEUM004 | Neurodegenerative disease - bench to bedside | 15 | No |
| NEUM005 | Neuroendocrinology | 15 | No |
| NEUM006 | Neuroscience Research Dissertation | 90 | Yes |
Optional Modules
MSc Neuroscience (full time, 2-year part-time, 3-year part-time)
90 credits of compulsory modules, 90 credits of Laboratory-Based Neuroscience Research Project
|
Code |
Title |
Credits |
Compulsory |
Non-Condonable |
|
NEUM001 a b |
Molecular & Cellular Neuroscience |
30 |
Yes |
|
|
NEUM002 ac |
Seminars in Neuroscience |
15 |
Yes |
|
|
NEUM003 ab |
Behavioural and Systems Neuroscience |
15 |
Yes |
|
|
NEUM004 ac |
Neurodegenerative disease – bench to bedside |
15 |
Yes |
|
|
NEUM005 ab |
Neuroendocrinology |
15 |
Yes |
|
|
NEUM006 d |
Neuroscience Research Dissertation |
90 |
Yes |
Yes |
a Part-time MSc students on a two-year route would typically take these modules in their first year.
b Part-time MSc students on a three-year route would typically take these modules in their first year.
c Part-time MSc students on a three-year route would typically take these modules in their second year
d Part-time MSc students on a two-year route will be doing their Neuroscience Research Dissertation module NEUM006 in their second year, and if on the three-year route take NEUM006 split over the second (30 credits) and third year (60 credits).
PGCert (full time, 2-year part-time)
60 credits of compulsory modules
|
Code |
Title |
Credits |
Compulsory |
Non-Condonable |
|
NEUM001 a |
Molecular & Cellular Neuroscience |
30 |
Yes |
|
|
NEUM002 b |
Seminars in Neuroscience |
15 |
Yes |
|
|
NEUM003 b |
Behavioural and Systems Neuroscience |
15 |
Yes |
|
|
NEUM004 b |
Neurodegenerative disease – bench to bedside |
15 |
Yes |
|
|
NEUM005 b |
Neuroendocrinology |
15 |
Yes |
|
a Part-time PGCert students on a two-year route would typically take these modules in their first year.
b Part-time PGCert students on a two-year route would typically take 2 out of the 4 modules in their second year.
6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. Demonstrate a depth and breadth of awareness of knowledge that is at the forefront of translational neuroscience | The course will be delivered in a blended fashion including: online lectures, on-campus seminars, workshops, master classes, on-campus small group tutorials, resource gathering and in-depth reading, preparation and writing of assignments. | 1. Critical appraisal of relevant literature –ILOs 1+5 2. Short answer test – ILOs 1-4 3. Analysis and interpretation of data – ILOs 2-4 4. Critical paper review -ILOs 1-5 5. Oral presentation – ILOs 1-5 6. Neuroscience Research Dissertation (supervised project) – ILOs 1-5 (MSc only) |
Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. . Apply analytical skills to investigate and test new hypotheses; | The course will be delivered in a blended fashion including: online lectures, on-campus seminars, workshops, master classes, on-campus small group tutorials, resource gathering and in-depth reading, preparation and writing of assignments | 1. Critical appraisal of relevant literature –ILOs 2-6 2. Short answer test – ILOs 1-4 3. Analysis and interpretation of data – ILOs 1-4 4. Critical paper review -ILOs 2-5 5. Oral presentation – ILOs 2-5 6. Neuroscience Research Dissertation (supervised project) – ILOs 1-5 (MSc only) |
Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. Critically appraise and analyse the scientific literature on relevant subject and the ability to judge and interpret findings; | The course will be delivered in a blended fashion including: online lectures, on-campus seminars, workshops, master classes, on-campus small group tutorials, resource gathering and in-depth reading, preparation and writing of assignments. | 1. Critical appraisal of relevant literature –ILOs 1+5 2. Short answer test – ILOs 1-4 3. Analysis and interpretation of data – ILOs 2-4 4. Critical paper review -ILOs 1-5 5. Oral presentation – ILOs 1-5 6. Neuroscience Research Dissertation (supervised project) – ILOs 1-5 (MSc only) |
7. Programme Regulations
Classification
8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
Personal and Academic tutoring:
Your Academic Personal Tutor will have oversight of your overall progress. They provide guidance on developing your personal skills and enhancing your employability. They can also signpost you to other expert support if you have specific needs or concerns. You and your tutor will talk at key points in your study, and meetings will be scheduled for this. You may also have group tutorials. You can talk to your tutor if you are worried about an assessment deadline, are having problems with attendance, or have personal matters you think are affecting your studies. Your tutor will either be able to help you themselves or will signpost you in the direction of the most appropriate person for the situation.
Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students & staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision.
Learning Resources
- The University Library collection comprises over a million volumes and 3000 current periodical subscriptions.
- Exeter’s Electronic Learning Environment (ELE) will host all your course content.
- The Master's level learning induction course (click here) is designed to prepare you for postgraduate study and covers some essential information (e.g. plagiarism, using ELE, library resources) as well as some topics that will help you to learn effectively and achieve better results in your course (e.g. note-taking, writing, and learning from feedback).
IT Services
- Open access computer rooms, some of which are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Helpdesks are maintained on the Streatham and St Luke's campuses.
- The HLS PGT FAQs page (click here) contains answers to lots of frequently asked questions, including about IT support. The Digital Hub (click here) provides a range of video tutorials and guides on using digital tools, as well as group and one-to-one tutorials. Exeter students can also receive help 24 hours a day on their assignments via Studiosity (click here), where you can “connect live” with a subject specialist, or request “writing feedback” on drafts of your assignments.
9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning
10. Admissions Criteria
11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
12. Indicators of Quality and Standards
Certain programmes are subject to accreditation and/or review by professional and statutory regulatory bodies (PSRBs) but this is not applicable to this programme.
13. Methods for Evaluating and Improving Quality and Standards
14. Awarding Institution
University of Exeter
15. Lead College / Teaching Institution
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences
16. Partner College / Institution
Partner College(s)
Not applicable to this programme
Partner Institution
Not applicable to this programme.
17. Programme Accredited / Validated by
0
18. Final Award
MSc Neuroscience
19. UCAS Code
Not applicable to this programme.
20. NQF Level of Final Award
7 (Masters)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 180 |
ECTS credits | 90 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
23. Dates
| Origin Date | Date of last revision |
|---|
