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The BSc Hons Neuroscience at the University of St Andrews explores the interface between psychology and neurobiology, examining how the brain and nervous system work in both health and disease. You’ll study molecular, cellular, physiological, pharmacological, cognitive, behavioural, and clinical aspects—all while gaining hands-on lab experience and research training.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 & 2 (Sub-Honours)
Biology 1 and Biology 2 introduce molecular/cellular biology, organismal diversity, and ecology.
Fundamentals of Psychology 1 and 2 cover theoretical foundations, cognition, perception, and modern psychology.
You’ll also study an additional subject alongside biology and psychology. Through these modules, you’ll build essential lab skills, statistical analysis, and critical thinking.
Year 3 (Honours)
Required modules include Neuroscience, Neuropharmacology, and specialised options such as Behavioural Neuroscience, Synaptic Transmission, Neuroethology, and Research Methods in Cognitive Neuroscience.
You’ll deepen your understanding of neurobiological systems and pharmacology, while honing experimental design and data handling abilities.
Year 4 (Honours)
You’ll conduct an extensive Neuroscience Research Project, involving laboratory or fieldwork under academic supervision.
Choose from advanced honours modules that align with your interests across clinical, developmental, molecular, cellular, and cognitive neuroscience.
This final year is designed to integrate your learning through independent, research-led study.
Focus areas:
“molecular, cellular and physiological processes; cellular and applied neurobiology; pharmacology and neurochemistry; cognitive and behavioural neuroscience; clinical psychology”
Learning outcomes:
“develop practical laboratory skills; gain theoretical and experimental understanding of brain mechanisms; design and conduct independent neuroscience research; critically interpret scientific data”
Professional alignment (accreditation):
Delivered jointly by the Schools of Psychology & Neuroscience and Biology; aligns with research-led educational standards and QAA benchmarking. Graduates are prepared for research, clinical, or academic careers.
Reputation (employability rankings):
Rated first in Scotland for Neuroscience & for Psychology and Neuroscience (Guardian University Guide 2022)
The University of St Andrews was ranked first in the UK for student academic experience (National Student Survey 2021)
Research activity: 91% of REF‑rated work scored 3* or 4*, with national leadership in teaching and student satisfaction
Participate in supervised laboratory research projects with expert faculty in neuroscience and biomedical sciences.
Engage in group-based practical investigations using real-world neuroscience data.
Opportunity to undertake summer research internships within the university or at partner institutions.
Access to state-of-the-art facilities including brain imaging, electrophysiology, and molecular biology labs.
Contribute to final-year honours dissertations based on original research.
Involvement in science communication, public engagement, and outreach initiatives.
Interdisciplinary collaboration on projects related to mental health, neurodegeneration, and cognitive function.
Option to apply for research assistant roles with university research centres.
Exposure to case-based learning and problem-solving in clinical neuroscience contexts.
Networking opportunities through guest lectures, academic conferences, and neuroscience societies.
Postgraduate study in Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Medicine, Psychology, or Biomedical Sciences.
Research positions in academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or biotech firms.
Careers in clinical neuroscience, neuropsychology, or neurological rehabilitation.
Entry into graduate medicine or physician associate programmes.
Opportunities in science communication, medical writing, or public health.
Roles in data analysis, neuroinformatics, and brain-computer interface development.
Employment in mental health services, diagnostics, or healthcare consultancy.
Further training in education, law (e.g., medical law), or business management.
Eligibility for competitive scholarships and research funding for MSc or PhD programmes.
Career support through university alumni networks and career services.
Top UK ranking in neuroscience Ranked #1 for neuroscience in The Guardian 2024 guide; 91% of research was rated 3*‑4* in REF 2021 Over 150 student societies & 50 sports clubs A vibrant student life with societies spanning culture, academic interests, athletics—excellent for personal growthEmphasis on research preparedness. Graduates are well‑equipped for postgraduate study, lab roles, clinical psychology, biotech, data science.Engagement with Institute of Behavioural & Neural Sciences Students study alongside leading researchers focused on neural development, degeneration, and motor controlJoint School teaching The program is delivered collaboratively by the Schools of Psychology & Neuroscience and Biology, ensuring comprehensive coverageEarly combination with another major In Year 1, students take a third subject (outside neuroscience), promoting breadth and cross-disciplinary thinking Diverse honours-level module options Advanced topics include clinical neuropsychology, behavioural neuroscience, neuromodulation, synaptic transmission, neuroethology, neurological disordersNeuroscience ResearcherClinical Neuropsychologist (with further study)Biomedical ScientistPharmaceutical ScientistClinical Trials CoordinatorNeuroimaging SpecialistData Analyst / BioinformaticianScience CommunicatorMedical WriterHealthcare Scientist Cognitive NeuroscientistDrug Development SpecialistMedical Sales RepresentativeGenetic Counsellor (with further training)Occupational Therapist (with further training)Speech and Language Therapist (with further training)Physiotherapist (with further training)Neurotechnology Developer
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University of St Andrews
