BSc Neuroscience: The University of Manchester

Course description

Neuroscience describes how the nervous system generates behaviour, perception, movement, thought and memory. Studies of the brain and nervous system integrate a broad spectrum of biological disciplines and contribute to our understanding of neural development and diseases of these systems.

The main aim of neuroscience is to understand how the nervous system works to generate behaviour, perception, movement, thought and memory. These studies of the brain and nervous system call on a wide range of knowledge and experimental techniques. New molecular approaches are advancing their understanding of membrane receptor structure and giving remarkable progress towards understanding neural development. There have also been major advances in their understanding of the biology of higher brain function and the pathogenesis of a variety of neural disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

Final-year topics take students to the forefront of current knowledge of many aspects of Neuroscience research. Popular units currently include: Generation and Control of Movement, Advanced Neuropharmacology, Neuromuscular Plasticity in Health and Disease, Computational Models of the Nervous System, Bioinformatics, Neurophysiology.

Career opportunities

Neuroscience graduates from the University of Manchester go into a variety of careers. Around half continue their interest in neuroscience or a related discipline, by choosing further study, either at Masters or PhD level. A small number of students pursue further study in alternative disciplines, such as medicine, dentistry and physiotherapy. Competition for such places is intense and success will depend on a number of things, including the achievement of a very good initial degree. A few students go on to complete a teaching qualification, either a primary or secondary PGCE. Although less than in the past there are still good opportunities for neuroscience graduates to enter the pharmaceutical industry, either in research and development, or in associated areas such as sales, marketing and regulatory affairs. Finally a few students choose not to use the discipline at all and choose careers outside of the life sciences. These can include accountancy, finance, law, marketing and publishing.

Entry requirements

• English language: Either GCSE grade C, IELTS 6.5 (with not less than 6.5 in any component) or an equivalent qualification.
• A level: Grades AAB-BBB. This should include:
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Maths and
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Geography, Psychology, Environmental Studies or PE.

  General Studies is welcomed, but is not normally included as part of the offer.

• AS level: 2 AS levels are acceptable in place of the third non-science A-level.
• Unit grade information: The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit grade information which, like all other available information, will inform the consideration of applications.
• GCSE: Minimum grade C in English Language and Mathematics.
• Key Skills qualification: The University warmly welcomes applications from students studying the Key Skills qualification. However, as the opportunities to take these modules are not open to all applicants, currently this is not an essential requirement of the University.
• International Baccalaureate: 35-32 points overall including 5 or 6 points in two sciences at Higher level, normally Biology and Chemistry.