1. Aston University
  2. Program
  3. Masters
  4. MSc Neuroscience for Drug Discovery

MSc Neuroscience for Drug Discovery

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Aston University

Program Overview

The MSc Neuroscience for Drug Discovery at Aston University offers a specialised blend of neuroscience and pharmacology, equipping students to translate brain-science research into novel therapeutic interventions. It is ideal for graduates in neuroscience, pharmacology or related biomedical disciplines seeking careers in drug discovery, biotech or academic research. 

Curriculum Structure:
In the taught phase, students engage with core modules such as Advanced Neuroscience, Essential Laboratory Skills, and Neuroscience Research Laboratory Competencies, building strong foundations in anatomy, molecular neuroscience and experimental planning.  Subsequently, they choose optional modules like Computational Neuroscience, Abnormal Neuronal Networks or Modelling Repair & Regeneration in the Injured CNS, focusing on advanced topics in brain modelling, pathology and neural repair.  The programme culminates in the Neuroscience Research Project (60 credits), where students design and execute an independent empirical study in a neuroscience or drug-discovery context. 

Focus areas:
"neuroscience methods, drug discovery, molecular & cellular pharmacology, computational neuroscience, neuro-repair models"

Learning outcomes:
"Graduates will demonstrate advanced understanding of nervous-system structure and function, apply laboratory and computational techniques in neuroscience, conduct independent research and translate findings toward therapeutic development."

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This programme is not a direct practitioner accreditation route but prepares students for research roles, biotech industry careers and doctoral study in neuroscience, pharmacology and drug-discovery domains.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Aston University is ranked among the UK’s top institutions for research power in allied health sciences (REF 2021) and is recognised for strong industry ties, making its graduates competitive for careers in pharmaceutical R&D, biotech and academic neuro-research. 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical laboratory and research skills through hands-on projects in neuroscience and pharmacology. They utilise the Aston Pharmacy School's specialist facilities and have industry engagement opportunities. The programme's experiential components include:

  • Laboratory Training: Hands-on experience with pharmacological research techniques

  • Research Project: A dissertation in neuroscience/drug discovery

  • Facilities: Access to pharmacology and neuroscience research laboratories

  • Industry Links: Engagement with pharmaceutical and biotech companies

  • Technical Skills: Development of drug discovery and neuropharmacology methods

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSc Neuroscience for Drug Discovery at Aston University prepares graduates with interdisciplinary expertise in neuroscience and pharmacology, equipping them to contribute to the development of novel pharmaceutical treatments for neurological conditions. Graduates are well-positioned for roles in research, drug development, and biomedical industries, supported by strong university resources and relevant industry connections.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

  • Aston University’s career services provide specialized support including scientific career workshops, personalized CV and interview coaching, and access to placements in pharmaceutical and biomedical research firms.

  • While specific employment stats for this course are limited, typical salaries in neuroscience and drug discovery fields range from £30,000 to £40,000, with strong growth prospects.

  • The program benefits from partnerships with local research institutes and pharmaceutical companies, offering practical research opportunities and networking.

  • This MSc holds significant professional value for careers in medical research and drug development, enhancing long-term employability.

  • Graduates typically secure roles such as Neuropharmacology Researcher, Drug Development Scientist, Biomedical Scientist, and Clinical Research Associate.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can advance to PhD research in neuroscience or pharmacology, or pursue specialized professional roles in pharmaceutical sciences and biomedical research sectors.

Program Key Stats

£24,800 (Annual cost)
Sept Intake : 30th Jul


50 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

3
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
6.0
93
2:2

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Practitioner psychologist in any specialist area
  • e
  • g
  • Health Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Occupational Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology etc

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