Neuroscience with Industrial/Professional Experience: 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 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. Neuroscience students have recently had placements with organisations including the University of Nevada, Roche Products Ltd and AstraZeneca.

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. Graduates from 'with industrial/professional experience' programmes are extremely desirable to employers who require significant relevant work experience. 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.
• 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.
• International Baccalaureate: 35-32 points overall including 5 or 6 points in two sciences at Higher level, normally Biology and Chemistry.