Enter OTP
The MSc Neuroscience of Mental Health at University of York explores how brain function, neurobiology and neuroimaging relate to mental health and psychiatric disorders, aiming to link brain mechanisms with diagnosis and treatment. It suits graduates in psychology, neuroscience or related fields who want to pursue research or clinical-research careers in mental-health neuroscience.
Curriculum Structure
In the taught year, students study An Introduction to Mental Health, covering major disorders such as depression, anxiety, psychosis and their assessment and treatment. They also complete Principles of Cognitive Neuroscience and Data Analysis in Neuroimaging, where they learn brain-behaviour relationships, neuroimaging techniques (fMRI, EEG/MEG) and data-analysis methods. Optional modules — for example The Cognitive Neuroscience of Anxiety and Trauma or The Neurobiology of Depression — allow them to explore specific brain-disorder links in depth. The course culminates in an MSc Project (dissertation), where students design and carry out original empirical neuro-behavioural research under supervision.
Focus areas (string):
“Brain mechanisms of mental illness, neuroimaging methods, cognitive neuroscience, psychiatric disorders, empirical neuro-mental-health research”
Learning outcomes (in a string):
“Explain brain-behaviour links in mental illness; use neuroimaging and statistical tools to analyse data; design and conduct rigorous empirical research on mental health; critically evaluate neuroscientific evidence; prepare for roles in research or clinical neuroscience.”
Professional alignment:
Geared toward research-based careers and further doctoral or clinical-research training in mental health or neuroscience — not a direct clinical-practitioner qualification.
Reputation (employability rankings):
York’s Department of Psychology is ranked among the top in the UK for research (8th overall, 2nd for research-output quality in REF 2021), giving strong academic and employability standing to programme graduates.
Students gain practical research skills through hands-on projects in York's dedicated psychology labs, focusing on educational applications and child development research. This applied learning is central to the programme, with key experiential components including:
Research Project: Conducting an empirical dissertation using the department's specialised facilities.
Laboratories: Access to York's baby and child development labs for observational research.
Software: Training in statistical packages like R for data analysis.
Professional Development: Curriculum designed to provide British Psychological Society (BPS) Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership.
Specialist Facilities: Use of the York Neuroimaging Centre for educational neuroscience research where relevant to projects.
Graduates of the MSc Neuroscience of Mental Health at University of York gain advanced understanding of brain mechanisms underlying mental illnesses, preparing them for roles such as research scientist, assistant psychologist, neuropsychology technician, and mental health data analyst:
The university’s Careers and Employability Service provides CV workshops, interview coaching, and access to placements in NHS trusts and research centers.
Graduates have strong employment and further study prospects, with typical salaries ranging from £28,000 to £40,000 depending on role and sector.
The program collaborates closely with York Neuroimaging Centre and clinical neuroscience teams, offering hands-on experience and research opportunities.
Students develop expertise in neuroimaging techniques, experimental design, and clinical assessment, contributing to long-term professional value.
Graduation outcomes include research excellence and practical skills applicable in clinical and academic settings.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue PhD research or clinical doctoral training (DClinPsy) to advance careers in neuroscience, clinical psychology, or mental health research.
2:2 or equivalent in an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, or a related subject with relevant experience in the mental health field.India- A score of 50% is considered comparable to a UK lower second class (2:2) degreeUSA- a score of 2.7 out of 4.0 is considered comparable to a UK 2:2IELTS- 6.5, minimum 6.0 in each componentTOEFL- 87, minimum of 21 in each componentEducational Psychologist (with further training)Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)Learning MentorEducational ResearcherSchool CounsellorEducation Policy AdvisorYouth WorkerChild Development SpecialistAcademic Support OfficerFamily Support WorkerEducation Consultant
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
University of York
 in Europe1779357712.webp)
