BSc Neuroscience - 2025 entry

Stage 1 

120 credits of compulsory modules

The aim for the first year is to set the nervous system - the real focus of Neuroscience - in a broader biological context. We believe that this provides a genuinely secure foundation for future work. 

The centrepiece of this whole-human approach is the Integrated Human Physiology module, which explores topics such as respiration, metabolism and digestion, and the immune system. The relationship of these systems to the nervous system is emphasized throughout. Other compulsory modules, which have all been revised to introduce additional material of particular interest to those studying neuroscience, include: Medical Cell Biology, Chemistry of Life, and Introduction to Genetics. 

In terms of specific Neuroscience content, the Introduction to Neuroscience module introduces key knowledge related to the form and function of nervous systems. It has a particular focus on how signals pass within and between nerve cells, but also considers how nervous systems develop, and the most important anatomical features of their mature form. The Methods in Neuroscience module provides you with the practical and theoretical grounding needed to begin to appreciate contemporary neuroscience research in context. 

You will also be enrolled in the zero credit “Academic Support and Development” module (NEU1095) as a compulsory requirement. During this module you will receive regular academic support from a tutor and begin to develop a personal development portfolio. 

Stage 2

90 credits of compulsory modules and 30 credits of optional modules

During the second year compulsory modules are dedicated to Neuroscience. Building on the solid foundation built in the first year, the Advance Methods in Neuroscience module enables you to take the next steps in developing your skills and knowledge to understand contemporary neuroscience research. The Neuropharmacology module explores the role of receptors by examining how drug-induced changes in signalling lead to changes in physiology and behaviour – with both beneficial and detrimental consequences for human health. A key part of this is exploring why some substances that were historically used as therapeutics are now used recreationally. Alongside this, the Neural Circuits module considers how the electro-chemical interconnections between cells, which are both extensive and intensive, hold a key to understanding the operation of nervous systems. This module examines in detail our current understanding of neural circuits, placing in a clear contemporary context many of the cell-types and basic principles which you encounter in the first year. Thus, you study how circuits become connected, can be studied, and may dysfunction in disease. 

Importantly, this stage of study also offers opportunities to complete additional optional Neuroscience or Medical Sciences modules according to your individual interests. 

Students will also be enrolled in the zero credit “Academic Support and Development” module (NEU2095) as a compulsory requirement. During this module students will receive regular academic support from a tutor and continue to develop their personal development portfolio. 

Stage 3 

75 credits of compulsory modules and 45 credits of optional modules

The centre-piece of the final year is the Frontiers in Neuroscience module, which focuses on the neurobiology of nervous system disorders. Each of the disorders is presented by an expert in the field, giving you a chance to engage with the very latest research; speakers show first-hand how research has answered important questions about the operation of the nervous system, and ushered in new questions.

Alongside this, you can choose three additional Neuroscience or Medical Sciences modules – providing an excellent chance to explore the aspects of Neuroscience or related areas which interest you most. The content of the modules differs, but they are all centre on interactive and group teaching.

Examples available modules include:

Cognitive Neuroscience: Cognitive Neuroscience seeks to explain our mental lives by integrating observations made at a cellular level within overarching theoretical frameworks.  This module builds on the knowledge gained in the Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience module (NEU2003). You will explore the Cognitive Neuroscience of perception, attention and working memory, focussing on the visual system.  Common techniques used in this endeavour will be discussed including functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), electroencephalography (EEG), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), eye-tracking, psychophysics (binocular rivalry, dual-task paradigms), and psychophysiology (skin conductance). After building a firm foundation in cognitive neuroscience you will go on to consider visual disorders including neglect and hallucinations. 

Neuroendocrinology: The module examines how the brain and endocrine system coordinate to regulate physiology and behaviour. You will learn how the brain regulates hormone secretion and how, in turn, the action of these hormones in the brain regulates biological processes essential for life such as eating, drinking, reproduction and growth. You will also learn about how hormones influence related aspects of behaviour including stress, aggression, and parental nurturing.

Alongside all of this, you will complete their own independent research project. This immersive experience, which accounts for roughly one third of their time in the final year, is an important opportunity for you to make their own original contribution to our neuroscientific understanding of biological phenomena. Should they discover something, as many have before them, then we will help them to present their work at conferences and through publication.

You will also be enrolled in the zero credit “Academic Support and Development” module (NEU3095) as a compulsory requirement. During this module you will receive regular academic support from a tutor and continue to develop your personal development portfolio.

In making your module choices, please note you will need a minimum of 90 credits at stage 3 (level 6), which can comprise the following modules: