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The Neuroscience BSc Hons at the University of Dundee is a four-year honours programme exploring both healthy and diseased nervous systems, from molecular mechanisms to clinical applications. It’s perfect for research-minded students who want to build strong lab skills and gain real-world experience, including the option of a year in industry.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 (Level 1)
• Core Skills in the Life Sciences 1A & 1B
• The Building Blocks of Life
• Optional science modules like Numeracy, Chemistry and Physics
You’ll build essential lab safety and technical skills, explore molecular and cellular biology, and develop practical scientific competence.
Year 2 (Level 2)
• Cellular Communication, Statistics and Experimental Design
• Human Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomolecular Mechanisms
• Optional modules such as Organic Chemistry or Introductory Programming
This year deepens biological understanding, introduces neurophysiology and pharmacology, and strengthens experimental and analytical abilities.
Year 3 (Level 3)
• Research Skills 3A, Neurophysiology, Endocrine & Gastrointestinal Systems
• Cardiovascular, Respiratory Systems and Renal Systems
• Pharmacology & Neuropharmacology
• Optional modules like Bioinformatics Methods or Cell Signalling
You’ll study nervous-system-specific physiology and pharmacology, while conducting guided laboratory work and research training.
Year 4 (Level 4)
• Research Skills: Biomedical Sciences, Research Project: Biomedical Sciences
• Applied Neuroanatomy & Neurodegenerative Disorders, Translational Psychiatry & Neurology
• Optional choices such as Mapping Memories in the Brain, Conscious Brain, Pain & Anaesthesia
In your final year, you’ll carry out independent research under supervision, explore advanced topics in neurodegenerative disease, psychiatry, and pain science.
Focus areas:
“Molecular and cellular neuroscience; neurophysiology; neuropharmacology; systems neuroscience; applied lab and research skills; independent project work.”
Learning outcomes:
“Master lab techniques across biomedical and neuroscience disciplines; design and carry out independent research; analyse data critically; understand nervous system function in health and disease.”
Professional alignment (accreditation):
• Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology
• Optional year in industry available to gain professional and commercial lab experience
Reputation (employability rankings):
• Joint 2nd in Scotland for graduate prospects in Guardian/Times guides
• Top in the UK for research quality in Biological/Biomedical Sciences
• 87% student satisfaction; 95%+ graduate employment or further study within 15 months, with average salary ~£24,000
Conduct independent research projects on neuroscience topics in final year.
Practical lab sessions using advanced neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and molecular tools.
Hands-on training in brain dissection, neural tissue analysis, and live animal experiments.
Option to undertake a year-long placement in the pharmaceutical or biomedical industry.
Opportunities to work on interdisciplinary projects combining neuroscience with psychology or pharmacology.
Access to the Life Sciences Building – a state-of-the-art facility for lab-based learning.
Study-abroad semester available in Year 2 with global partner institutions.
Continuous group projects and team-based assignments to build collaboration skills.
Research-led teaching from academics involved in active neuroscience investigations.
Participation in neuroscience journal clubs and research seminars.
Entry into postgraduate degrees: MSc, MRes, or PhD in neuroscience and related fields.
Careers in pharmaceutical and biotech industries as research scientists or analysts.
Pathway to clinical roles with further training (e.g., Clinical Neuropsychologist, Genetic Counsellor).
Opportunities in science communication, medical writing, and healthcare education.
Roles in cognitive neuroscience, neuroinformatics, and AI-based brain research.
Careers in regulatory affairs and drug development coordination.
Graduate roles in NHS and private healthcare as neuroscience technicians or analysts.
Eligibility for teaching and academic positions with appropriate qualifications.
Foundation for entry to graduate-entry medicine or physiotherapy.
Transferable skills suitable for data science, project management, or policy advising roles.
Integrated Honours Curriculum The program includes a structured honours year with research-led teaching, giving students a deeper understanding of advanced neuroscience topics through rigorous coursework and practical applications.BSc with Industrial Placement Option Offers a professional placement year in academic or pharmaceutical labs, enhancing employability and practical research skills through real-world scientific exposure.Cutting-edge Research Facilities Access world-class neuroscience labs with advanced imaging, electrophysiology, and molecular biology tools used in ongoing research across neurobiology and disease modelling.Neuroscience Pathway Specialisation From second year, students follow a neuroscience-focused track covering cellular neurobiology, brain development, synaptic transmission, neurodegeneration, and behaviourWorld-Leading Research Faculty Teaching is informed by active researchers working on Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, and synaptic plasticity, ensuring content remains current and impactful.Located in Life Sciences Hub University of Dundee’s School of Life Sciences is internationally recognised, offering collaborations with Ninewells Hospital and global biotech leaders.Neuroscience 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 Dundee
