Course summary
The MSc Neuroscience for Drug Discovery program provides students with a comprehensive grasp of neuroscience principles and their direct application in the fields of pharmacology and drug discovery. This innovative program integrates fundamental neuroscience with translational medical research, encouraging students to bridge the gap between fundamental research and the development of novel therapeutic interventions. What is Neuroscience for Drug Discovery? Neuroscience for Drug Discovery is a specialised field within the field of neuroscience and pharmacology that focuses on using insights from neuroscience research to discover and develop novel pharmaceutical interventions for the treatment of neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s and auto-immune diseases. It represents an interdisciplinary approach that combines the knowledge of how the nervous system functions with treatment targets and drug development strategies. Once potential drug targets are identified, researchers work on identifying compounds or drugs that can modulate these key elements and restore normal function or alleviate symptoms. This includes repurposing of existing approved drugs for use in new disease areas or new patient populations. As a postgraduate student and active researcher in this field, you will join an exciting body of scientists aiming to enhance our understanding of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. Course outline During your year at Aston, you will study specialist modules that combine theory and practice through small group tutorials, lectures, and hands-on laboratory sessions in bespoke, highly-equipped teaching and research laboratories. You’ll complete a core curriculum of four taught modules which will provide you with a detailed understanding and critical analysis of the contemporary research and analysis methods used in neuroscience and drug discovery: Core modules
- Advanced Neuroscience
- Essential Laboratory Skills
- Neuroscience Research Laboratory Competencies
- Professional Development for Neuroscience
- Advanced and Applied Synaptic Plasticity
- Advanced Molecular Pharmacology
- Abnormal Neuronal Networks
- Hacking the Brain
- Physiology and Pathophysiology of Movements
- Computational Neuroscience
- Feeding the Brain
- Modelling Repair and Regeneration in the Injured Central Nervous System (CNS)
Assessment method
This course utilises a range of assessment methods as appropriate to the topic, including: Coursework - such as essays Examinations Practical work Oral and written presentations Dissertation research project.
How to apply
International applicants
Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students. Students from over 120 different countries choose to study with us every year. Aston is not only a great place to study, based in the centre of Birmingham it’s also a great place to live. As a university, we welcomed the creation of a new immigration route which will enable international students to remain in the UK for two years after they have completed their studies to find work.
Entry requirements
Lower Second-class Honours degree (2:2 or equivalent) from a recognised university in a suitable science or medical science subject (e.g. Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Physiology, Biochemistry, Medicine). IELTS 6.0 minimum across all sub-bands with a 6.5 minimum overall.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £9750 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9750 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9750 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9750 | Year 1 |
| International | £20700 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Sponsorship information
20% Aston Alumni Scholarship. See the course page for more.
Provider information
Aston University, Birmingham
Aston Triangle
Birmingham
B4 7ET