About this course Understanding the brain's development, structure, and function is one of science’s greatest challenges. Your four-year integrated Neuroscience master's degree covers the breadth of this field, encompassing molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscience, neuroimmunology, neurodegeneration, and neuropharmacology through our extensive range of modules. After expert training and guidance in subjects as diverse as cell biology, genetics, and biochemistry, you'll graduate equipped with the fundamental sciences to tackle this truly interdisciplinary subject matter. Key features of the course: - Build on the foundation of biomedical sciences in year one, with increasing neuroscience specialisation through successive years. - Conduct an extensive individual research project in your final year, supported by a unique ‘Advanced Neuroscience’ module where leading researchers give masterclasses, preparing you for your neuroscience career - Study in our multi-million pound Life Sciences building, surrounded by researchers who shape the programme with their world-chaning research - Develop laboratory and research skills under the guidance of staff who are actively researching in the Neuroscience, operating at the cutting-edge of modern advanncements that are actively shaping the world around us - Pursue opportunities beyond the curriculum on a semester abroad or in a Year in Employment, such as in a role within the pharmaceutical industry, to enrich your degree and help you stand out to future employers. - Join a University where 96% of Biological Sciences graduates were in employment or further study 15 months after graduating (Graduate Outcomes 2022/23, published 2025). Student support From day one, you'll join a welcoming and supportive Biological Sciences community home to researchers who are paving the way for advancements in science and eager to share their findings with their peers and our student community. You'll be supported by your personal academic tutor and guided throughout your degree to ensure you graduate primed and ready for your future career in industry, in research, or in further study. Further information Biological Sciences programmes at Southampton are accredited by the Royal Biological Society, meaning you'll graduate from a course commended across the sector.
A Level: AAB | AAB to include Biology or Chemistry and one further science subject. A level science subjects considered include Biology, Human Biology, Physics, Maths, Statistics, Psychology, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology. Science practical components must be passed. General Studies, Critical Thinking and Use of Mathematics are excluded for entry. | Scottish Higher | We normally consider applicants who offer at least 1 Advanced Higher. Applicants presenting with only Highers will be considered on a case by case basis. Where Highers are taken over two years it might be expected that higher grades are achieved, particularly in any specific subjects required. For example, S5 – S6 (2 years): AABBB (A in specific subject) or S6 (1 year): ABBBB (A in specific subject). Unless a more advanced level (Higher or Advanced Higher) is specified in the stated entry requirements, all applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at Standard Grade, Grade 3 or National 5, Grade C, the equivalent of GCSE Grade C/ Grade 4" | Access to HE Diploma: 39 UCAS points | Access to HE Diploma: 6 UCAS points | Access to HE Diploma | 60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3 of which 39 credits must be at Distinction and 6 at Merit. A core science Access to HE Diploma must be studied. | Scottish Advanced Higher | Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information. | Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016): DD | We accept the BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in suitable science subjects and in conjunction with one A-level in Biology or Chemistry. If you are studying this qualification a typical offer would be DD + A at A-Level to include Biology or Chemistry and one further science subject. Science practical components must be passed | Extended Project: A | BBB in 3 A-levels to include Biology or Chemistry and one further science subject plus grade A in the EPQ. Science practical components must be passed. | International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme: 34 UCAS points | Pass with overall score of 34 points, with 17 points required at higher level to include 6 points in Biology or Chemistry and 6 points in one further science subject. Science subjects considered include Biology, Human Biology, Physics, Maths (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation at HL6), Psychology, Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP): The University of Southampton accepts the IBCP for entry to their degree programmes, recognising the value of combining academic skills with practical skills, providing a solid preparation for university level work. Offers will be made on the individual components of the IBCP. Applicants not taking the full IBCP but presenting with a combination of a Level 3 vocational qualification and IB Certificates may still be considered. Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information. | WJEC Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales: B | AA from two A levels including Biology or Chemistry and one further a science subject and B from the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales. | Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016): DDD | We accept the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in suitable science subjects | Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017): H1H2H2H2H2H2 | H1, H2, H2, H2, H2, H2 to include Biology or Chemistry and one further science subject. Science subjects considered include Biology, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology. | Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma (first teaching from September 2016): D | D + AA at A-Level to include Biology or Chemistry and one further science subject. Science practical components must be passed where applicable. | Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (first teaching from September 2016): D | D + AA at A-Level to include Biology or Chemistry and one further science subject. Science practical components must be passed where applicable. | Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate - Principal: D3D3M2 | D3, D3, M2 to include Biology or Chemistry and one further science subject. Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A Level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of grade B.
Band C: 6.5 with 6.0 in each component
Throughout this course, you'll delve into the full spectrum of neuroscience, combining a core curriculum with flexible pathways that empower you to shape your degree around your personal interests and career aspirations. Year 1: Exploration of key biological sciences alongside the development of critical thinking and practical laboratory competencies, laying a strong foundation for neuroscience. Year 2: A deeper dive into neuroscience concepts, taught by leading researchers, with opportunities to build advanced analytical and research skills. Year 3: Specialised modules reflecting our cutting-edge research across molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscience. You’ll refine your interests through selected topics and undertake a substantial independent research project. Year 4: For those undertaking the MSci in Neuroscience. Further specialisation in modules such as Advanced Neuroscience where you will gain insight and hands-on experience into the latest methodologies used to understand the nervous system in health and disease. An independent research project is also carried out under the direct supervision of one of our research staff. You’ll also benefit from opportunities to enhance your learning through study abroad programmes and industry placements during the 2nd year if you choose to, boosting your academic experience and future employability. Course modules may be updated to reflect the latest innovations and discoveries in the field. For full list of all modules available, please visit the course page.
Please see our website for further details and updates regarding tuition fees. We anticipate that international tuition fee levels for 2027 entry will be confirmed in August 2026. — UG 2027 Entry - Home Confirmed, International TBC
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