Neuroscience with Psychology

Neuroscience with Psychology is the study of nerve cells and how they work together in the brain. The degree aims to instil a broad base of knowledge regarding the functioning of the nervous system. This is done via a bottom-up approach through an understanding of the nervous system at a molecular and cellular level, but also via a top-down approach through behavioural neuropsychology.

Why Aberdeen?

• The University has a strong research base in Neuroscience where the behaviour of nerve cells is studied primarily at the molecular and cellular level
• Neuroscientists at Aberdeen discovered that the brain produces its own morphine-like substances (enkephalins) and made the first chemical and neuropharmacological characterisation of these substances
• The degree programme combines this expertise with courses in human and animal neuropsychology
• The degree scheme includes a ten-week, full-time research project in the Honours year that gives a good insight into the realities of top quality research
• The degree was graded as 'Excellent' in the Teaching Quality Assessment Exercise

Programmes

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

 

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

First Year

Students take first year courses in Chemistry, Medical Sciences and Psychology, plus additional courses selected from the science programme and other areas. 

Second Year

Second year courses are taken in Physiology and Psychology combined with courses delivering key skills applicable to Neuroscience.

Third Year

A series of courses - Molecules, Membranes and Cells, Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology, and Integrative Neuroscience - provide a systematic study of nerve cell communication at ascending levels of integration. These are accompanied by parallel courses in Biopsychology, Memory and Cognition and Animal Behaviour. A key skill developed at this level is the use of computer-based technology for the analysis and presentation of scientific data.

Fourth Year (Honours)

In the first half-session, selected areas which were dealt with in a broad context in third year are now considered in depth. These include Advanced Molecules, Membranes & Cells, Neuroanatomy and Developmental Neuroscience. The second half-session is occupied fully with a laboratory-based research project or a library research project, selected by students from a list which reflects local expertise.

Teaching and Assessment

In the early years, teaching involves attendance at lectures, practicals and tutorials. In the later years a rather greater proportion of students’ time is taken up in private study involving writing essays and reports and also in laboratory or library work relating to specific projects. The final year incorporates the preparation and presentation of a research-based thesis.

Careers

Neuroscience as a distinct discipline has only emerged within recent years and there is a strong demand for graduates with a broader background in Neuroscience than has been available in traditional single subject degree schemes. Most of our students have previously gone into academic laboratory research as postgraduate students or research assistants.

Alternatively, some students use the communication and analytical skills embedded in the course to apply for jobs that are not specifically science related.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Neuroscience with Psychology.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB*
A Levels - BBB*
IB - 30 points, 5 at HL*
ILC - BBBB*
*Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/Science subjects.

Advanced Entry - Advanced Highers ABB, A Levels ABB or IB 34 points (6 at HL), including Biology, Chemistry and Psychology.

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide