Neuroscience with Professional Training Year (MNeuro)

Program Overview

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The Neuroscience with Professional Training Year (MNeuro) program at the University of Cardiff is a five-year integrated master's degree that equips students with a deep understanding of neuroscience and advanced research skills. Through a combination of coursework, research projects, and a professional training year, graduates gain a competitive edge for careers in academia, industry, and scientific research. The program fosters critical thinking, analytical abilities, and independent learning, preparing students to make significant contributions to the field of neuroscience.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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This program:

• Aims to equip aspiring researchers and those seeking a career in science with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed.
• Is a five-year integrated master's degree that explores the forefront of knowledge in neuroscience.
• Provides training in advanced research techniques and enables students to delve deeper into their chosen field.

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Program Objectives:

• Equip graduates with a deep understanding of neuroscience.
• Foster research skills and abilities in advanced research techniques.
• Provide graduates with a competitive edge for research and scientific careers.
• Develop graduates' critical thinking, analytical, problem-solving, and independent learning skills.

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Program Description:

The MNeuro program is designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive learning experience, offering students the opportunity to:

• Study the fundamentals of neuroscience, encompassing the nervous system, nerve cells, and brain function.
• Explore the latest advancements in the field, including topics such as brain-computer interface, neuropharmacology and neurodegenerative diseases.
• Conduct research under the guidance of expert faculty, gaining hands-on experience in a professional research setting.
• Develop a deep understanding of the research process, from experimental design and data analysis to scientific writing and presentation.
• Benefit from small class sizes and a supportive learning environment.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Covers a broad range of topics in neuroscience, including:
• Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
• Systems Neuroscience
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Computational Neuroscience
• Behavioral Neuroscience

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Program Structure:

• Includes lectures, tutorials, presentations, and practical classes.

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Year 2:

• Increased specialization in neuroscience, building upon knowledge and practical skills gained in Year 1.
• Includes lectures, laboratory practicals, self-study, group work and projects.
• Focuses on data analysis, scientific communication, advanced laboratory and field techniques.
• Includes two required modules: "Fundamental Neuroscience" and "Brain and Behaviour".
• Students select an additional 40-credit module from a choice of ten.

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Year 3:

• Professional Training Year (PTY)
• Students spend 9-12 months in an academic, clinical, or industrial research setting gaining real-world experience.
• Undertake all aspects of research, including design, data acquisition, analysis, presentation, and report writing.
• Placement support provided by PTY Coordinators and tutors.
• Placements can be in the UK or internationally.
• Successful placement completion contributes to the final degree assessment.

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Year 4:

• Specialization in a chosen research theme.
• Includes research-driven teaching, project work, advanced research techniques, bioinformatics training, literature searching, data analysis, and group-based critical appraisal of work.
• Focuses on applying core knowledge to problem-solving, critical analysis, and independent work.
• Includes three 30-credit subject modules and a 30-credit Advanced Research Techniques module.

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Year 5:

• Extended research project conducted in a research laboratory.
• Training in advanced research techniques and the "Frontiers in Bioscience" module.
• Opportunity to publish research findings or contribute to existing publications.
• Development of skills as a practical research scientist.
• Includes a supervisor's evaluation, written report, and a presentation.

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Course Schedule:

• Varies depending on the year and chosen modules.
• Typically includes lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, laboratory classes, and project work.

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Individual Modules:

While specific modules may change, here are examples of modules offered in the program:

• Fundamental Neuroscience
• Brain and Behavior
• Sensory Processing and Perception
• Neuronal Development and Plasticity
• Neuropharmacology
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Research Project
• Advanced Research Techniques
• Bioinformatics
• Frontiers in Neuroscience

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Varied and reflect the program's focus on research and scientific communication.
• Include written work, practical reports, group projects, presentations, essays, exams, and research project reports.
• Employ a mix of formative and summative assessments.

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Assessment Criteria:

• Knowledge and understanding of neuroscience concepts and principles.
• Ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations and problems.
• Critical thinking, analytical, and research skills.
• Effective communication and scientific writing.
• Time management, organization, and independent learning ability.
• Practical research skills.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Lectures, seminars, tutorials, laboratory classes, workshops, group work, independent study, and individual research project supervision.
• Emphasis on student-centered learning, active participation, and inquiry-based approaches.

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Faculty:

• Experienced researchers and experts in neuroscience.
• Passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise with students.

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Teaching and Learning Philosophy:

• Fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
• Encouraging independent learning, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.

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Careers:

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Career Prospects:

• Graduates are highly competitive for research and science-related careers in academia, industry, government, and non-profit organizations.
• Career paths may include:
• Research Scientist
• Neuroscientist
• Neuropharmacologist
• Lecturer
• Science Writer
• Science Communicator
• Policy Analyst
• Patent Attorney
• Medical and scientific research
• Opportunities exist in a wide range of sectors, including:
• Medical and scientific research
• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies
• Healthcare organizations
• Government agencies
• Educational institutions
• Science communication and journalism
• Graduates can also pursue further studies in areas such as medicine, dentistry, or veterinary science.

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Other:

• The University of Cardiff is a leading research institution with a vibrant research environment.
• Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including research laboratories, libraries, and computing resources.

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We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees in the second and subsequent years of a course as permitted by law or Welsh Government policy. Where applicable we will notify you of any change in tuition fee by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which the fee will increase. Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Learn more about the undergraduate fees for students from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Costs for sandwich years During a sandwich year (e.g. year in industry, placement year or year abroad) a lower fee will apply. Additional costs All field courses which take place abroad incur an additional cost – primarily to cover student travel and accommodation. We also offer some excellent Wales-based field courses which do not incur additional costs. Course specific equipment The University will provide IT facilities (in a communal space), laboratories equipped with specialist equipment, and all specialist software required for the course. Students are advised to bring a laptop computer or equivalent.