Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology with Industrial Experience: The University of Manchester

Course description

This joint honours programme investigates the behaviour of humans and other animals in terms of brain mechanisms and evolutionary principles. The programme incorporates the study of biological systems at all levels as well as human behaviour in personal and social contexts.

The third year of this four year programme is the placement year, during which students complete a research project in an institution in the UK or abroad. The University assists students in finding placements and currently has established links with approximately three hundred institutions, ranging from botanical gardens to the pharmaceuticals industry.

Career opportunities

Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology graduates from the University of Manchester go into a variety of careers. About half stay in the life sciences and related disciplines, choosing either to study further research or taught courses such as a Masters or PhD, which could lead onto a career in bioscience, or medicine/dentistry degrees. A significant number go on to complete a science teaching qualification, such as a secondary science PGCE. Graduates from 'with industrial/professional experience' programmes are extremely desirable to employers who require significant relevant work experience.

Those that choose a career outside of the life sciences are highly sought after by large multinationals. Graduate programmes in accountancy, finance, law, marketing and publishing are particularly popular choices for graduates from the Faculty who do not wish to stay in science.

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.
• 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: 35-33 points overall including 5 or 6 points in Biology and Chemistry at Higher level.