MSc Cognitive Neuroscience

at Bournemouth University

Core units
 

• Brain Structure &  Function: This unit provides an overview of basic human functional neuroanatomy. You will learn about the principles underlying the anatomical organisation and functional segregation of the human brain, as well as the necessary neuroanatomical background to develop relevant research questions in cognitive neuroscience. 

• Experimental Design in Cognitive Neuroscience: The theoretical component of the unit covers a range of approaches to experimental design in cognitive neuroscience and critical evaluation of current practices in designing experiments. The practical component of the unit illustrates principles of experimental design by using relevant examples from the published studies focusing on a technique-specific design, limitation, and advantages, ways to control unwanted variables, common pitfalls, and neuroethics. The unit aims to prepare students for undertaking an independent research project in cognitive neuroscience 

• Critical Issues in Cognitive Neuroscience: The unit provides a comprehensive overview of the critical issues in cognitive neuroscience, the scientific study of the underlying biological processes of cognition. Current research issues (e.g., modularity vs. brain connectivity) will be discussed and supplemented with recent peer-reviewed journal articles. 

• Advanced Research Methods: The unit covers a range of research methods and a tool used for conducting advanced level research, and describes the intricacies of experimental design in such contexts. The unit aims to prepare students for undertaking independent research using advanced research techniques.  

• Advanced Statistics: You will learn and apply a range of statistical techniques intended for analysing data from psychological research. These are advanced techniques which are not covered at undergraduate level, but they build on statistical knowledge that you should have acquired in your undergraduate course.  

• Key Transferable Skills - Presentation & Scientific Writing: In this unit, you'll gain key skills for interpreting, presenting and writing research. Topics will include writing research and grant proposals, presentation skills and the development of advanced writing skills. 

• Research Project: You will work closely with a member of staff engaging in discussions in order to choose an appropriate research project based around a particular topic that interests you, or expanding an element from the course that you want to pursue further, perhaps linked to your future career aspirations.  

The normal requirements for embarking upon this degree are:
 

• A Bachelors Honours degree with 2:1, or equivalent in a required subject
• Required subjects are: Psychology, Biomedical Science, Biological Science, Physical Science (such as Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, Sport Science) or a related discipline
• Applicants with a 2:2 may be considered following academic assessment.

​If you lack the formal academic qualifications needed to enter a postgraduate or post-experience degree, there are several alternative routes to follow - some based on experience.

​Additional costs

We are committed to offering you value for money and ensuring there are no hidden costs while you are studying with us, therefore we have listed below any additional costs you may incur that are not covered by your tuition fee:
 

• Laptops, tablets and mobile devices and any software used on personal devices. Access to a personal computer is strongly recommended for your study. If you are experiencing financial difficulty.
• Textbooks, general stationery and other supplies. Our award-winning library is stocked with a large range of textbooks and online resources, free of charge. The Students’ Union shops stock a wide range of stationery supplies on both campuses.
• Accommodation and living costs. 
• Travel costs to and from the University campus. An annual bus pass can be purchased alongside your rent if you are living in halls of residence/Unilet accommodation or may be purchased separately.
• Travel costs to and from your placement (both in the UK and overseas) if this is part of your course of study. 
• Travel costs for optional field trips, outdoor wear and footwear for mandatory and optional field trips (if applicable).
• Clothing or equipment costs required for your placement if this is part of your course of study.
• SportBU membership.

While all aspects of the programme, including required field trips, are included in the fee, additional, optional or extra curricula activities may be available for which a student contribution is required.

As a Cognitive Neuropsychology graduate, you will be prepared to undertake roles such as:
 

• Cognitive Neuroscientist
• Academic Researcher
• Lecturer
• Data Analyst
• PhD Student