MSc Cognitive Neuroscience at Durham University

Programme overview

Explore how the brain enables us to think, perceive, and act, and how these processes develop and change across the lifespan and in mental and neurological conditions. The MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience provides you with the theory, tools, and hands-on laboratory experience to study how the brain produces cognition, emotion, and behaviour, and how these processes are affected by development and mental or neurological disorders. You will explore current topics and experimental and analytical approaches in Cognitive Neuroscience through lectures, tutorials, workshops, laboratory practicals, and a hands-on dissertation project.

What you will study

This MSc provides you with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical training in Cognitive Neuroscience, contemporary research methods and techniques, programming, statistical analysis, project management, and independent research. Compulsory modules include Critical Research Practice, Statistics for Psychology and the Behavioural Sciences, Advanced Statistics for Psychology and the Behavioural Sciences, Current Issues in Cognitive Neuroscience, Techniques in Cognitive Neuroscience, Dissertation.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Entry requirements: We typically require a 2:1 Bachelor (Honours) degree in a neuroscience-related discipline , including—but not limited to—Neuroscience, Medicine, Psychology, Biology, Computer Science, Engineering, and other related fields. Applicants must demonstrate competence in quantitative analysis and research methods, including core principles of research ethics, experimental design, and data analysis. This requirement can be met through a range of backgrounds, including but not limited to: completion of statistics, data analysis, or research methods modules quantitative or analytical training in disciplines such as mathematics, physics, engineering, or computer science independent research experience (e.g., dissertation, project work, or research-based employment) involving data collection, analysis, or modelling.

Domestic applicants: GBP 15,500 a year (2027/28). Home/Island full-time tuition fee per year for September 2027 entry Source

International applicants: GBP 34,000 a year (2027/28). International/EU full-time tuition fee per year for September 2027 entry Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 1 year full-time

Apply through the official page: https://web.prod.sits.admin.durham.ac.uk/urd/sits.urd/run/siw_ipp_lgn.login_enc?2ffs-x8W1ugsSwDuR1HzLLt1OnQPLjX6VUOjtP-8vIXiZWWJy_PXzk23CwSxTvl2r2cr3FG7cpk=

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