MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience

Make use of state-of-the-art facilities at the Aston Brain Centre and at the Psychology laboratories

Unique in its emphasis on specialist training in the area Cognitive Neuroscience, coupled with transferable research skills for career and professional development
Opportunity to work with internationally renowned academics

Students should hold at least a second class Honours Degree in Psychology or a related field, from a British university or a qualification of equivalent value.

International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate a satisfactory command of English language. They should meet our minimum English language requirement by taking one of the following tests:

IELTS. Minimum requirement - 6.5 overall, 6.0 in each area.
TOEFL IBT. Minimum requirement - 100 overall, (21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking).
Pearson Academic. Minimum requirement - 61 overall, 59 in each area.

We do not accept a Password test.

Duration of programme: Full-time: 12 months, part-time: Up to 2 years
Start date: October
Distance learning available: No
Intake: Approximately 15 per year.

Fees for 2013 entry:
UK/EU students: £4,200
International students: £12,500

Application & contact:
Apply for this course online

Deadline to apply for 2013 entry: Friday 2nd August

LHS Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0) 121 204 4161
Fax: +44 (0) 121 204 4187
Email: lhspgt@aston.ac.uk

This degree programme is unique through its dual emphasis on specialist training in the area Cognitive Neuroscience, as well as on generic, transferable research skills for career and professional development.

Download course flyer

Students will acquire comprehensive research experience from working with researchers of international caliber. The programme is especially recommended to graduates who want to:

specialise in the area of Cognitive Neuroscience
continue to do a PhD, or get a feel for research before embarking on a PhD
enhance their CV by a research-related Masters qualification

The MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience is focussed on a specialist taught module about the theoretical, practical and clinical aspects of Cognitive Neuroscience, including:

Neuroanatomy
Neuropsychological Assessment
Cognitive Neuropsychiatry
Neuroimaging techniques involving EEG/ERP, MEG and MRI/fMRI
Imaging genomics

Additional modules provide detailed study and practical experience in research design and analysis, and help the student develop transferable, professional skills. These include:

Advanced Methods in Psychological Research
Advanced Research Design and Analysis
Advanced Statistics
Research Rotation
Communication Skills in Research and Teaching
Professional Development

The course also includes a dissertation project. This is an original piece of research carried out under the supervision of experienced researchers of international standing normally associated with the Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience or the Neuroimaging research group.

The course is delivered mainly through lectures, which are often followed up by laboratory-based practical sessions.

The course is assessed by a combination of coursework, examinations, practical work, oral and written presentations, and the dissertation project.

Personal development

In addition to writing skills, students will learn how to deliver information concisely in the form of scientific posters and talks as well essential interview and CV writing skills.

Teaching staff

Find out more about our Psychology teaching staff.

Course director

Dr Nathan Ridout

This course is designed to provide a postgraduate-level education and training for graduates seeking employment in Cognitive Neuroscience or related areas. The course is also an excellent foundation for studies a PhD level.

The course makes use of state-of-the-art specialist equipment provided at the Aston Brain Centre as well as at the Psychology laboratories. There is also a dedicated computer suite and seminar room for masters students.