Neuropharmacology at Aston University, Birmingham - UCAS

Course options

Course summary

Our Neuropharmacology MRes course is a specialised research-oriented postgraduate programme which has been tailored for those committed to neuropharmacological research, who seek to explore the effects of drugs on the nervous system, and wish to contribute to the development of novel therapies for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. What is Neuropharmacology? Neuropharmacology is a specialised branch of pharmacology that focuses on the study of how drugs and substances interact with the nervous system to influence its function and behaviour. It plays a vital role in advancing our understanding of the nervous system, identifying new therapeutic targets, and developing drugs that can improve the lives of individuals affected by neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws from pharmacology, neuroscience, chemistry, psychology, and medicine, in order to address complex questions related to drug interactions with the nervous system. Course outline Aston University is known for its academic excellence and commitment to research with a strong reputation in science. Our Neuropharmacology MRes programme offers you the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects and collaborate with passionate, research-active faculty members in the field of Neuropharmacology. 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 three taught modules which will provide you with a detailed understanding and critical analysis of the contemporary research and analysis methods used in Neuroscience: Core modules

  • Advanced Neuroscience
  • Neuroscience Research Laboratory Competencies
  • Professional Development for Neuroscience
In addition, you will have the opportunity to complete research practicals using some of the advanced technologies of Neuroscience, including real-time recording of brain cells using research-grade in vitro set-ups, receptor pharmacology experiments, molecular neuroscience techniques and EEG and EMG. These sessions are supported by training in core research skills such as formulating a scientific research question, scoping and implementing research designs, and advanced programming and data analysis. There is also an emphasis on professional development and research-related communication skills in this programme, with our Professional Development for Neuroscience module, where you will develop your abilities in areas such as oral and written presentation, personal promotion and employability, intellectual property, scientific writing, systematic review and meta-analysis, and research ethics. Research dissertation project The dissertation research project is a substantial part of the Neuropharmacology MRes programme, which will enable you to conduct original and in-depth research in the field of neuropharmacology in a research laboratory. This provides you with the opportunity to develop, implement and communicate an original piece of research, and is completed with the support of a research active supervisor.

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

Upper Second-class Honours degree (2:1 or equivalent) from a recognised university in a suitable science or medical science subject (e.g. Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Physiology, Biochemistry, Medicine). Applicants will be invited to select a suitable research project as part of the application process and attend a brief online interview to discuss their research plans with their prospective supervisor. 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.

Neuropharmacology at Aston University, Birmingham - UCAS