MPhil Integrative Neurobiology and Behaviour: The University of Manchester

Course description

The MPhil is a one-year research degree where students get the opportunity to study a specific research project. The MPhil degree can act as a stand-alone degree for applicants who would like to gain experience in a specific area, or can be linked to a PhD programme. Rather than register on a direct entry 3 or 4 year PhD, some postgraduates may first register on a one-year MPhil programme. Subsequently students may then wish to transfer on to a full PhD programme with a further 2 or 3 years of study.

A network of electrically active neurones is found in almost all multicellular animals. The function of this nervous system is to control physiology and behaviour by receiving and integrating sensory information and conveying executive commands to muscles and glands. Diversity in the fundamental properties of individual neurones and glia, and in the nature of their connectivity, provides the nervous system with unparalleled scope for complexity. This intricacy is central to its function and provides the substrate for advanced cognitive functions in higher vertebrates and man. Modern neurobiology research is characterised by the application of new technology to traditional behavioural, anatomical and cellular analyses, and the integration of contemporary molecular and post-genomic techniques. The Neurobiology group uses this multidisciplinary strategy to explore the development and normal activity of the nervous system, as well as the origins and mechanisms of degeneration and dysfunction.

Career opportunities

The majority of their MPhil students choose to study for a subsequent 2 or 3 years to gain a PhD qualification. Other students use the skills they have acquired to move into related areas such as education, information technology, consultancy and management, helped by the comprehensive skills training they gain during their programme of study.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview:

The standard entry requirement for MPhil study is a First or Upper Second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent, in a relevant subject. In certain circumstances, a Lower Second class honours degree supplemented by appropriate relevant experience, may be acceptable.

English language:

For MPhil applicants whose first language is not English an IELTS score of 6.5, TOEFL 577 (paper based), TOEFL 233 (computer based) or TOEFL 90 (internet based) is required as a minimum.