Neuroscience

Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system, and is one of the fastest growing areas in biomedical sciences. You will learn about discoveries that have transformed our understanding of the brain and helped in the development of new treatments for disorders affecting millions of people. Bristol is home to many internationally recognised research groups studying various aspects of neuroscience, including memory and learning, sensory processing and motor control. Our degree offers the opportunity to work in the pharmaceutical or biotech industries.

Neuroscience courses

Why study Neuroscience at Bristol?

We use dynamic and innovative teaching methods alongside more traditional lectures and small-group tutorials. Our varied practicals are run in state-of-the-art dissection facilities and well-equipped modern laboratories, and include sessions with hi-fidelity Human Patient Simulators. A newly developed online computer environment, eBiolabs, is used to enhance your practical experience.

In years one and two, you will have the opportunity to study another subject besides neuroscience, which can include a non-science subject. Popular choices are biochemistry, human anatomy, pharmacology, psychology or a modern language. Assessment in years one and two is through a combination of coursework, including online tests, and exams.

The Neuroscience degrees are run by the School of Physiology and Pharmacology, which houses worldleading research groups in neuroscience. Research active staff are involved in teaching from year one.

What kind of student would this course suit?

Neuroscience would suit a student who has a keen interest in how all aspects of the nervous system work and what goes wrong in disease states, for example in neuropsychiatric diseases. You would have, or want to develop, the ability to investigate aspects of Neuroscience from the literature and have an interest in developing skills in experimentation and the analysis of data

How is this course taught and assessed?

For each of the first two years you will normally have nine lectures a week, supplemented by up to nine hours of practical work, depending on the units chosen. Regular tutorials are arranged in order to provide guidance in communication skills and problem solving. In the final year, formal lectures are replaced by seminars and a total of 30 days are spent on a research project. You will be assessed via coursework, including regular on-line assessments and written assignments, as well as end of unit exams.

What are my career prospects?

Neuroscience provides ideal training for a wide variety of rewarding careers. Our graduates have a high level of success in securing employment or places on further training courses. More than 30 per cent of graduates register for higher degrees (MSc, PhD) or graduate-entry Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science. Others enter laboratory-based careers in universities, government establishments, the NHS, or the pharmaceutical and food industries. A Neuroscience degree is also an excellent basis for careers in other areas, such as teaching, commerce, administration and management.

What do you particularly like about studying at Bristol?

From a neuroscience point of view Bristol is one of the world leading centres for research. Having lecturers that are leaders in their field is amazing, and everyone is so friendly and willing to help that you will never be stuck on anything.

Alex Godwin
BSc Neuroscience