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The BSc in Neuroscience at the University of Exeter is a three-year research-focused degree that explores the molecular, cellular, and behavioural aspects of the nervous system through lectures, labs, and small-group teaching. It’s perfect for inquisitive students who want hands-on research experience and the option of a professional placement to prepare for careers in healthcare, research, or biotech.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
You’ll take Methods in Neuroscience, Introduction to Neuroscience, Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience, Medical Cell Biology, Chemistry of Life, and Introduction to Genetics. In addition to academic foundations, you’ll develop practical lab skills and critical thinking within small-group sessions and research-inspired teaching .
Year 2
Your modules include Advanced Methods in Neuroscience, Neural Circuits, and Neuropharmacology, plus your choice of at least two optional modules (from Brain and Behaviour, Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuroanatomy, and others). This year deepens your experimental techniques and understanding of brain systems, drug interactions, and cognitive functions .
Year 3
You’ll complete Neuroscience Research Project and Frontiers in Neuroscience, along with three optional modules such as Neuroendocrinology, Pain, the Brain and Analgesia, or Neuroimmunology. This final year enhances your independent research skills and allows you to engage with real-world neuroscience challenges under academic supervision .
Focus areas:
“Molecular, cellular, cognitive and behavioural neuroscience; neuropharmacology; neural circuitry; research methods and independent project work.”
Learning outcomes:
“Develop practical laboratory expertise; master advanced experimental and analytical techniques; conduct independent, research-led projects; critically evaluate contemporary neuroscience findings.”
Professional alignment (accreditation):
The program delivers research-engaged teaching and offers an optional professional placement year—designed to align with industry expectations and prepare you for careers in healthcare, research, biotech, or further academic study .
Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Exeter is ranked 14th in the UK overall, with a 95% employment rate for biomedical-related graduates. Student satisfaction in Neuroscience is 76%, and average graduate salary reaches around £27,000 within 15 months
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 Biological Sciences Foundation Combines core disciplines like genetics, physiology, and biochemistry to build a strong scientific foundation tailored specifically toward neuroscience.Neuroscience-Specific Modules Study neural development, neurotransmission, sensory systems, neuroendocrinology, and neurodegenerative disorders through dedicated neuroscience modules from Year 2 onward.Research-Intensive Teaching Courses are taught by active researchers working on Alzheimer’s, autism, and brain aging, ensuring your learning reflects the latest findings.Hands-On Laboratory Training Gain practical skills in electrophysiology, molecular techniques, dissection, and neuropharmacology through weekly hands-on lab sessions in cutting-edge facilities.Professional Experience Year (Optional) Add a placement year with a research lab, biotech firm, or healthcare provider to gain hands-on industry experience and boost employability.Neuropharmacology Exposure Study how drugs affect brain function and behavior, laying the foundation for careers in psychopharmacology, clinical trials, and therapeutics.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 Exeter
