Biological Sciences (Neuroscience)

The nervous system extends throughout the body both in Man and in other organisms to control many complex functions. Alterations in the structure and function of the nervous system, from the molecular to the systems level, can result in disease, thereby highlighting the importance of understanding the nervous system and being able to target it to treat disease.

Course description
Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system. It is a multidisciplinary science requiring an understanding of the ions, molecules, cells and systems that underpin a vast number of essential functions including learning, memory, sensation, motor control and human behaviour. A knowledge of the roles and relationships of the various parts of the nervous system provides an understanding of how interventions can target disease or be used, for example, recreationally or to provide sporting advantage. Important questions still remain in neuroscience research and there will be opportunities to learn from and work alongside leading neuroscientists investigating some key issues.

The course is delivered in modules, allowing you some flexibility to focus on areas that align with your developing interests.

Over the programme, in addition to subject-specific knowledge, you will gain important transferable skills that will make you an attractive prospect for future employers.

This course is identical to the first three years of the MBiolSci in Biological Sciences (Neuroscience).

This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting (in part) the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

What's the difference?
At the University of Leicester, we offer seven Biological Science subjects and four Medical Bioscience subjects, all as BSc (three years) and most as MBiolSci (four years), plus a Foundation Year option, giving you an impressive range of different courses to choose from.

Biological Science covers major aspects of biology and molecular science across a wide range of organisms from bacteria and fungi to humans and plants. All 14 courses share a common first year so you can change to a different degree before the end of Year 1.
Medical Science allows you to select specialist modules that focus more closely on the application of biological principles to medicine. All eight courses share a common first year so you can change to a different degree before the end of Year 1.
It is possible to switch between a Biological Science course and a Medical Bioscience course during the first half of your first year, but after that the two fields diverge.