Program Overview
This 4-year Medical Neuroscience MSci program at the University of Sussex explores the structure and function of the human brain and nervous system, emphasizing modern techniques and equipping students for careers in research and related fields. The integrated Masters year involves an individual research project, building advanced technical and analytical skills. The program benefits from connections with Brighton & Sussex Medical School, offering a unique undergraduate experience in Medical Neuroscience.
Program Outline
Medical Neuroscience MSci: University of Sussex
Degree Overview:
This 4-year full-time MSci program focuses on the structure and function of the human brain and nervous system. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to understand and treat neurological disorders. The program emphasizes modern experimental techniques, computing, programming, data analysis, and communication skills. The program is unique in the UK, being the only undergraduate course in Medical Neuroscience. It benefits from close connections with Brighton & Sussex Medical School, located on campus. The integrated Masters year provides a strong theoretical and practical foundation for a career in research or related fields. Students spend a semester working on an individual research project within one of the Neuroscience research teams, developing advanced technical, analytical, and scientific communication skills.
Outline:
Year 1:
- Core Modules:
- Cells, Organisms and Systems
- Physiology and Disease
- Skills, Ethics and Society
- Biochemistry and Metabolism
- Cell and Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience and Behaviour
- Research Methods for Neuroscience
Year 2:
- Core Modules:
- Human Genetics and Genomics
- Principles of Medical Neuroscience
- Research and Professional Skills I: Neuroscience
- Cell Regulation and Pharmacology
- Developmental Biology
- Neural Circuits
- Research and Professional Skills II: Neuroscience
Year 3:
- Core Modules:
- Synaptic Communication
- Third Year Bioscience Research Project
- Neurobiology of Brain Disorders
- Options:
- Biological Psychology of Mental Health
- Cell Signalling and Therapeutics
- Intelligence in Animals and Machines
- Programming for Life Sciences
- Structure and Function in the Human Brain
- Drugs, Brain and Behaviour
- Genomics and Bioinformatics
- Innovation in Bioscience and Medicine
- Molecular Neuropharmacology
- Sensory Function and Computation
Year 4:
- Core Modules:
- Life Sciences MSci research project
- Options:
- Advanced Methods in Molecular Research
- Advanced Techniques in Neuroscience
- Imaging in Brain Diseases
- Skills for Research Bioscientists
Teaching:
- The program utilizes a combination of seminar sessions and hands-on laboratory work.
- Students are trained in modern experimental techniques.
- The program is taught by experts in various fields, including medicine, neuroanatomy, genes, and development.
- Research underpins the teaching.
Careers:
- The program prepares students for careers in:
- The pharmaceutical or biotechnology industries
- Academic research
- Science writing or publishing
- Science engagement
Other:
- The program is offered as a 3-year BSc as well.
- Students can apply for optional study abroad or placement opportunities.
- The program is highly regarded, with 94% of research in Biological Sciences assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021).
- The program is taught within a supportive community of students and scientists in the School of Life Sciences.
- Sussex was the first university in the UK to offer a degree in neurobiology.
