Dementia: from Neuroscience to Clinical Practice MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University College London

Program Overview

The MSc Dementia: From Neuroscience to Clinical Practice at UCL bridges basic neuroscience with clinical care, equipping students to understand and treat neurodegenerative diseases. It suits both bench scientists and clinicians (e.g., psychologists, neurologists) who want to translate research into patient-centred dementia work. 

Curriculum Structure:
Students begin with Higher Functions of the Brain and Practical Neuroscience of Dementia, building foundational knowledge in brain systems and lab techniques. They also take Clinical Neuroscience of Dementia and Current Research in Dementia to understand diagnosis, pathology, and the latest research. In Research Methods & Introduction to Statistics, students learn to design and analyse dementia studies. The course culminates in a Research Project (MSc Dementia), where students conduct an original piece of dementia research under supervision. 

Focus areas: “Neurodegeneration; dementia pathology; clinical neuroscience; research methods; biomarker and patient-based research”
Learning outcomes: “Connect neuroscience and clinical dementia practice, design and conduct dementia research, and critically evaluate neurodegenerative disease mechanisms.”
Professional alignment: Prepares students for roles in dementia research, clinical neuropsychology or neurology, or further PhD training in neurodegeneration.
Reputation: UCL’s Queen Square Institute of Neurology is a global leader in neuroscience research.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This programme focuses on applying behavioural science theories to real-world challenges through practical projects and hands-on research. Students develop intervention design and evaluation skills using UCL's specialist labs and research centres. This applied approach is delivered through:

  • UCL's Behavioural Research Labs: Access to the Bridget Dolan Laboratory and other experimental facilities for designing and testing behavioural interventions.

  • Industry and Policy Projects: Opportunities to work on live briefs with external partners through the UCL Centre for Behaviour Change.

  • Substantial Research Project: A major dissertation where students design, implement, and evaluate a full behaviour change intervention.

  • Practical Workshops: Hands-on training in qualitative and quantitative research methods, including data analysis software like R and SPSS.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Dementia: from Neuroscience to Clinical Practice at UCL acquire cutting-edge knowledge and research skills linking neuroscience and clinical practice to address dementia. Typical job roles include Clinical Researcher, Neuroscientist, Dementia Care Specialist, and Healthcare Consultant.

Key points:

  • UCL offers tailored employability support including NHS-linked internships, mentorship from leading dementia experts, and alumni networking events.

  • 100% of graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months; salaries typically range from £30,000 to £40,000 depending on experience and sector.

  • The program has strong partnerships with UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, NHS, and dementia research centers, offering practical training and research opportunities.

  • Graduates benefit from long-term academic and clinical recognition tied to UCL’s leadership in neurodegeneration research.

  • Graduation outcomes include progression to PhD research, clinical roles, and leadership positions in dementia care research.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue PhD or postdoctoral research in dementia, clinical neuroscience, or health sciences.​​

Program Key Stats

£42,700 (Annual cost)
£ 90
Sept Intake : 31st Mar


30 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

3.3
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
7.0
96
2:1

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Dementia Advisor
  • Clinical Studies Officer
  • Research Assistant
  • PhD Researcher
  • Care Home Manager
  • Dementia Services Manager
  • Clinical Trial Coordinator
  • Policy Officer
  • Dementia Trainer or Educator

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