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Brain Sciences MRes

This MRes is an innovative research-led programme which brings together expertise from across the Faculty of Brain Sciences and offers you the opportunity to work and train with leading researchers at one of the most highly regarded centres of excellence in brain science in the world.

Key information

Programme starts

September 2021

Modes and duration

Full time: 1 year

The MRes Brain Sciences progamme runs for one calender year.

Application dates

All applicants
Open: 9 November 2020
Close: 30 July 2021
Notification
Applications may close earlier if all places on the programme are filled.

Tuition fees (2021/22)

UK:
£15,500 (FT)
Overseas:
£29,800 (FT)


Note on fees: The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees.

Location: London, Bloomsbury

Entry requirements

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor of Science degree from a UK university in an appropriate scientific discipline (e.g. neuroscience, cognitive science, biological and biomedical science, medicine, anatomy, physiology, psychology, computer science) or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Preference will be given to applicants who have both core knowledge of direct relevance to the MRes programme and relevant expertise and skills in empirical research.

English language requirements

If your education has not been conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.

The English language level for this programme is: Good

Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level. International Preparation Courses

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

International students

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website.

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below.

Select your country:

About this degree

Students will gain an understanding of the human brain and its disorders from the molecular to systems level that will reflect the interdisciplinary breadth of cutting-edge research in brain sciences conducted at UCL. Students will gain theoretical and practical knowledge of core personal and professional skills that underpin excellence in research.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The course consists of taught modules worth 60 credits. 45 credits are from compolsory modules and in addition students are required to take one optional module worth15 credits. Students are also required to complete a Research Project worth120 Credits.

Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded a MRes in Brain Sciences.

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change.

Compulsory modules

MRes Brain Sciences students take the following compulsory modules

  • Research Methods and Statistics
  • Research in Practice Or Biosciences Research Skills
  • Contemporary Topics in Brain Science Research
  • MRes Brain Sciences Research Project

Optional modules

Students must choose ONE 15-credit optional module

  • Introduction to the Brain and Imaging the Brain
  • Structure & Function of the Brain
  • Introduction to Cognitive Science
  • Principles of Cognition
  • Molecular Pharmacology
  • Developmental Neurobiology
  • Receptors and Synaptic Signalling
  • Current Research in Dementia
  • Neuroscience of Mental Health

Dissertation/research project

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation in the form of a journal article and an oral examination.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, independent study, journal clubs, independent and collaborative problem-based tasks, computational work and a supervised empirical research project. Assessment is through online tasks, unseen written examinations, essays, oral presentations, research-based tasks and a primary research article.

Additional costs

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support & Wellbeing team.

Funding

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.

Careers

This programme will prepare students for research careers in academia, industry or business, nationally or internationally. 

Employability

The programme provides a broad understanding of brain sciences. The aim is to give students the best chance of obtaining a place on a relevant PhD programme. In addition the programme includes taught elements that will enhance employability. Transferable skills include statistical training, communication skills and training in research ethics and governance.

Why study this degree at UCL?

This comprehensive programme will provide core knowledge and skills, and ensure that prospective PhD candidates are thoroughly acquainted with the background as well as with the expanding scope of the field.

The unique curriculum will develop knowledge and insight into the broad and interdisciplinary scope of brain science through practical experience and exposure to contemporary topics in brain sciences research delivered through a series of innovative masterclasses led by internationally renowned researchers at UCL.

With an empirical research project encompassing two-thirds of the programme, quantitative and qualitative tools for research will be developed including core skills in the implementation, management and dissemination of research.

Department: Brain Sciences

Application and next steps

Applications

Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

This programme requires two references. Further information regarding references can be found in our How to apply section.

Who can apply?

This programme is ideal for highly motivated students who are interested in understanding the interdisciplinary scope of brain function and dysfunction from the molecular to the systems level, and are seeking a programme that will facilitate integrative, creative and critical thinking in new advances and applied research.

Application deadlines

All applicants
30 July 2021

For more information see our Applications page.

Apply now

What are we looking for?

When we assess your application we would like to learn:

  • why you want to study Brain Sciences at graduate level
  • why you want to study Brain Sciences at UCL
  • what particularly attracts you to this programme
  • how your academic and professional background meets the demands of this programme
  • where you would like to go professionally with your degree

Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme will deliver.

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students.

Page last modified on 28 August 2021