Neuroscience is the study of the functioning of the nervous system, both in health and disease, and is one of the most exciting and dynamic areas of modern biomedical research. The topic ranges from understanding the molecular, biochemical and cellular events that underpin communication between nerve cells, through to the execution of complex behaviours such as playing a piano. Higher cognitive functions, such as learning, memory and emotions ultimately depend upon cellular and neuronal networks that neuroscience endeavours to reveal and explain. The discipline grows in importance to society as the aged proportion of the population increases, bringing new challenges in the treatment and management of neurological disorders. Discovering how drugs influence our mood and behaviour is also essential in developing new treatments for conditions such as anxiety and depression and in the better management of drug addiction. Modern neuroscience is not an isolated discipline. It integrates the inputs of, for example, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, psychology and psychiatry to address the normal and abnormal functioning of the nervous system. Our course emphasises such inputs, and offers a balance between molecular and cellular aspects of the subject and systems and clinical neuroscience.

Graduates in Neuroscience pursue a variety of careers that utilise their specialist knowledge, or more generally draw upon the analytical and organisational skills developed in their training. Furthermore, a degree in Neuroscience, in common with many other Life Science degrees, can provide a qualification for graduate entry to Medicine or Dentistry. Specific career paths for Neuroscience graduates include: academic research in universities, institutes and the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Opportunities also exist in medical/scientific information, the media, and publishing.