ASTON UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
Neuroscience for Drug Discovery
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 1 yearDuration
- September 2026Next Start Date
- UK 2:2 honours degree or international equivalentEntry Requirement
- Guaranteed InternshipsWith every Master's Degree
- 10th in UKFor research in Allied Health Professionals (REF 2021)
- Research-level laboratoriesSpecialist Facilities
The Neuroscience for Drug Discovery MSc at Aston University is a specialized program designed to provide an in-depth understanding of neuroscience and its direct application to pharmacology and drug development. This interdisciplinary course focuses on translating fundamental neuroscience research into novel pharmaceutical interventions for neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson's disease. You will gain insights and skills crucial for driving real-world impact in healthcare and drug development. This program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience through small group tutorials, lectures, and hands-on laboratory sessions. You will explore contemporary research methods and analytical techniques used in neuroscience and drug discovery, preparing you for a career in academic research, pharmaceutical, medical, clinical, or broader scientific professions. The course emphasizes professional development, communication skills, and ethical considerations in research.
Curriculum
The program consists of a core curriculum of four taught modules, complemented by research practicals and a significant research dissertation project. The modules provide a detailed understanding and critical analysis of contemporary research and analysis methods in neuroscience and drug discovery. Practical sessions utilize advanced technologies such as real-time brain cell recording, receptor pharmacology, molecular neuroscience techniques, and EEG/EMG. The research dissertation allows you to develop, implement, and communicate an original piece of research under the guidance of a mentor.
- Year 1
- Professional Development for Neuroscientists
- Other core modules in neuroscience and drug discovery
- Research Dissertation Project
Careers
Graduates from the Neuroscience for Drug Discovery MSc are well-prepared for a diverse range of careers in scientific and medical fields. The research-led teaching ensures you gain the skills and knowledge valued by employers in various sectors.
- Academic Researcher
- Pharmaceutical Scientist
- Medical Researcher
- Clinical Scientist
- General Scientific Professions
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Neuroscience for Drug Discovery MSc programme?
- You will need a UK 2:2 honours degree or an international equivalent in a relevant science subject to be considered for entry. Critical thinking, ambition, and drive are also expected.
- How long does the Neuroscience for Drug Discovery MSc programme take?
- The programme is a full-time, one-year Master's degree.
- What are the tuition fees for this programme?
- Please refer to your offer letter for the most accurate and up-to-date tuition fee information, as fees may vary and are subject to change.
- What career paths can I pursue after graduating from this MSc programme?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Academic Researcher, Pharmaceutical Scientist, Medical Researcher, Clinical Scientist, or general scientific professions.
- When is the next start date and what are the application deadlines?
- The next start date is September 2026. Early application is advised as courses may close once filled; specific deadlines are TBC but outlined in the 'how to apply' section.
- What does the curriculum involve?
- The programme includes four taught modules covering contemporary research methods, research practicals with advanced technologies, and a significant research dissertation project.
Entry requirements
UK Honours DegreeA 2:2 honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant science subject.
You will be expected to demonstrate critical thinking, ambition, and drive to excel.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information on international tuition fees is not provided on the program or supporting pages.
Tuition (home)Information on home tuition fees is not provided on the program or supporting pages.
LivingNo specific living cost estimates are provided on the university's pages.
Please refer to your offer letter for the most accurate and up-to-date tuition fee information. Fees may vary and are subject to change.
How to apply
1. Submit your applicationApply as early as possible for the September 2026 intake via the university's applicant portal. International students requiring a visa should be aware that late applications might necessitate a super priority visa, subject to confirmation from the Visa Team.
2. Receive and accept your offerIf successful, you will receive an offer letter detailing the deadline to accept your offer and pay any required deposit. The time frame for acceptance varies based on your application date. If you need an extension, contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk.
3. Meet offer conditions and prepare for visaThe final deadline to meet all offer conditions will be the same date as the CAS Shield submission deadlines, which may vary by course, country, and visa type. Ensure all required documents are submitted by this date.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Neuroscience for Drug Discovery MSc programme?
+
You will need a UK 2:2 honours degree or an international equivalent in a relevant science subject to be considered for entry. Critical thinking, ambition, and drive are also expected.
How long does the Neuroscience for Drug Discovery MSc programme take?
+
The programme is a full-time, one-year Master's degree.
What are the tuition fees for this programme?
+
Please refer to your offer letter for the most accurate and up-to-date tuition fee information, as fees may vary and are subject to change.
What career paths can I pursue after graduating from this MSc programme?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Academic Researcher, Pharmaceutical Scientist, Medical Researcher, Clinical Scientist, or general scientific professions.
When is the next start date and what are the application deadlines?
+
The next start date is September 2026. Early application is advised as courses may close once filled; specific deadlines are TBC but outlined in the 'how to apply' section.
What does the curriculum involve?
+
The programme includes four taught modules covering contemporary research methods, research practicals with advanced technologies, and a significant research dissertation project.