Neuroscience

About this course
Understanding the brain's development, structure, and function is one of science’s greatest challenges.

Your four-year integrated Neuroscience master's degree covers the breadth of this field, encompassing molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscience, neuroimmunology, neurodegeneration, and neuropharmacology through our extensive range of modules.

After expert training and guidance in subjects as diverse as cell biology, genetics, and biochemistry, you'll graduate equipped with the fundamental sciences to tackle this truly interdisciplinary subject matter.

Key features of the course:

• Build on the foundation of biomedical sciences in year one, with increasing neuroscience specialisation through successive years.

• Conduct an extensive individual research project in your final year, supported by a unique ‘Advanced Neuroscience’ module where leading researchers give masterclasses, preparing you for your neuroscience career

• Study in our multi-million pound Life Sciences building, surrounded by researchers who shape the programme with their world-chaning research

• Develop laboratory and research skills under the guidance of staff who are actively researching in the Neuroscience, operating at the cutting-edge of modern advanncements that are actively shaping the world around us

• Pursue opportunities beyond the curriculum on a semester abroad or in a Year in Employment, such as in a role within the pharmaceutical industry, to enrich your degree and help you stand out to future employers.

• Join a University where 96% of Biological Sciences graduates were in employment or further study 15 months after graduating (Graduate Outcomes 2022/23, published 2025).

Student support
From day one, you'll join a welcoming and supportive Biological Sciences community home to researchers who are paving the way for advancements in science and eager to share their findings with their peers and our student community. You'll be supported by your personal academic tutor and guided throughout your degree to ensure you graduate primed and ready for your future career in industry, in research, or in further study.

Further information
Biological Sciences programmes at Southampton are accredited by the Royal Biological Society, meaning you'll graduate from a course commended across the sector.

Throughout this course, you'll delve into the full spectrum of neuroscience, combining a core curriculum with flexible pathways that empower you to shape your degree around your personal interests and career aspirations.
Year 1: Exploration of key biological sciences alongside the development of critical thinking and practical laboratory competencies, laying a strong foundation for neuroscience.
Year 2: A deeper dive into neuroscience concepts, taught by leading researchers, with opportunities to build advanced analytical and research skills.
Year 3: Specialised modules reflecting our cutting-edge research across molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscience. You’ll refine your interests through selected topics and undertake a substantial independent research project.
Year 4: For those undertaking the MSci in Neuroscience. Further specialisation in modules such as Advanced Neuroscience where you will gain insight and hands-on experience into the latest methodologies used to understand the nervous system in health and disease. An independent research project is also carried out under the direct supervision of one of our research staff.
You’ll also benefit from opportunities to enhance your learning through study abroad programmes and industry placements during the 2nd year if you choose to, boosting your academic experience and future employability. Course modules may be updated to reflect the latest innovations and discoveries in the field.

For full list of all modules available, please visit the course page.

You'll learn, and be assessed, through a range of methods designed to equip you with the skills you need for success after graduating.

The learning activities include lectures, classes and tutorials, coursework, individual and group projects, and independent learning.

The assessment methods include coursework, laboratory reports and essays, individual and group projects, oral presentations, written and practical exams.