Postgraduate taught programme

MSc

Human Neuroscience

With an immersive approach to human neuroscience, this MSc provides the knowledge, experience and the key practical neuroimaging/neurostimulation skills to prepare you for a career in neuroscience research.
MSc Human Neuroscience
About Details Careers, industry and research Postgraduate student life Fees and funding Apply Register for open evening

About

Gain intensive, hands-on training in human neuroscience through electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Working in the Brain Research Imaging Centre (BRIC) and specialist laboratories, you’ll connect the theory behind these methods with practical experience in research design, data collection and analysis. Through lectures, workshops, problem-based learning and collaborative research, you’ll develop the skills to investigate how the human brain supports cognition and behaviour. Complete a substantial neuroscience research project that integrates multiple methods, preparing you for doctoral study and research-related careers in academia, healthcare and industry.
BRIC MRI
 
 
 
 

Train in specialist neuroscience facilities 

Develop practical skills at the Brain Research Imaging Centre (BRIC), the most advanced multi-modal brain research facility in the South West, where complementary methods allow researchers to investigate human brain structure, function and the effects of brain stimulation. Connect your classroom learning with experience in an active research environment.

Build practical research skills 

Gain experience in collecting, processing and analysing neuroscience data through laboratory rotations. Learn how to use specialist methods safely, recognise their limitations and select appropriate approaches to investigate research questions.

Learn with active researchers 

Explore contemporary questions in human neuroscience with researchers who use these methods in their own work. Develop your ability to evaluate evidence, design studies and communicate findings through discussion, practical training and supervised research.

Details

Programme overview

Study full-time over one year or part-time over two years
Build an integrated understanding of human neuroscience, from the principles underlying brain function to the methods used to investigate it. Study the foundations and applications of EEG, MRI and brain stimulation alongside advanced research design, data handling and analysis. Through laboratory rotations, develop practical skills in safe working, data collection and technique-specific analysis. Explore how neuroscience informs our understanding of cognition and neurological conditions, and examine contemporary issues including neuroethics. Finally, work with fellow students and an academic supervisor to develop and conduct an original neuroscience study, submitting your own individual research paper.
Brain Stim

Core modules

PSYC724
Advanced Practice in Neuroimaging and Neurostimulation 20 credits

This research rotation module will provide an immersive experience for students, enabling them to obtain first-hand experience of state-of-the-art neuroimaging and neurostimulation techniques through engagement with active research labs. Rotations will cover technical aspects of safety and data acquisition and enable students to engage with proper data collection, signal processing, and analyses based on technique-specific methods.

100% Coursework

PSYC725
Neuroscience Project 60 credits

In this module, students select, develop, and carry out an original group research project on a topic associated with their specialist area of interest using a neuroimaging or neurostimulation technique. The module comprises an independent piece of research work conducted by the students within a group and written up as an independent research paper

100% Coursework

PSYC726
Foundations and Applications of Neuroimaging and Neurostimulation 20 credits

This module provides an overview of key concepts in neuroscience that form the basis of neuroimaging and neurostimulation techniques. This module will also cover the key principles of major neuroimaging and neurostimulation techniques including electroencephalography (EEG), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and (functional) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI/fMRI) illustrating their use in human neuroscience research with concrete examples and applications.

100% Coursework

PSYC750
Personal and Professional Development 0 credits

This module will enhance students awareness of the transferable skills they possess, focus thinking about future employment, spur reflection on recent learning, and promote the effective use of feedback to enhance academic performance.

PSYC760
Advanced Research Design and Data Fluency for Psychology 20 credits

This module explores approaches to formulating psychological research questions, the design of studies to effectively investigate such questions, and how to work fluently with common types of psychological data.

100% Coursework

PSYC763
Advanced Skills and Techniques for Psychological Research Part 1 20 credits

The module introduces students to a range of approaches to data collection including interviewing, surveys, computer programming, systematic reviewing and EEG. It also provides students with a grounding in core research skills such as writing, literature reviewing and conducting service evaluation.

100% Coursework

PSYC764
Advanced Skills and Techniques for Psychological Research Part 2 20 credits

The module introduces students to a range of approaches to data analytic and data handling methodologies including qualitative approaches such as thematic analysis and content analysis and methods of analysing and data handling approaches to quantitative data such as JAMOVI/JASP and excel. The module will also cover specific elements of analysis such as clinical significance, psychometrics and research dissemination through academic posters.

100% Coursework

PSYC765
Neuropsychology and Neuroscience: From lab to community 20 credits

To show how different cognitive science and neuroscience techniques can be used to advance understanding cognition and how this relates to neurological conditions. Students are introduced to a range of neuropsychological conditions including Acquired Brain Injuries, Parkinson’s and dementia and approaches to intervention from lab through to hospital and community settings.

100% Coursework

HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3

Explore your options

Discover our range of postgraduate options to suit your interests and career goals.
Please note: this programme does not confer graduate basis for recognition by the British Psychological Society; applicants seeking this recognition should apply to our MSc Psychology.

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Human Neuroscience programme specification_7664

Careers, industry and research

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Develop practical experience in neuroimaging and neurostimulation alongside skills in research design, data analysis, critical evaluation and scientific communication. These capabilities provide a foundation for doctoral study and research-related roles across academia, industry, government and healthcare. Laboratory rotations and the research project give you concrete experience to discuss in applications and interviews. Graduates have progressed to PhDs in psychology and neuroscience-related disciplines and to roles in academia, industry and allied health professions.
BRIC - screen showing brain scan in front of an MRI machine

The human neuroscience programme at BRIC provided me with a strong foundation across all aspects of the field – from the theoretical underpinnings to hands-on experience with methods such as EEG, fMRI, and TMS. The programme also opened doors to research assistant positions at BRIC after I graduated, where I worked alongside active researchers before going on to pursue a PhD in cognitive neuroscience. The skills and confidence I built on the course were what made all of that possible.

bethan.jpg

Bethan, final year PhD student
 

The Human Neuroscience course provided me with a broad range of hands-on neuroimaging research experience that has opened so many doors for me within research and academia. Being able to conduct research in a state-of-the-art facility such as BRIC is a real privilege and an amazing thing to add to your CV! The staff teaching on the course are experts in their field and offer engaging lectures and workshops that are sensitive to the individual support students require when entering a new, and sometimes daunting, field. I really cannot recommend the course enough.

madie.jpg

Madie, first year Teaching and Research Associate
 

Working at BRIC has been a great opportunity to explore psychological research. I help prepare brain stimulation studies, assist researchers during supervised sessions, and support participants. This hands-on experience has taught me how neuroscience experiments are set up and conducted, how to work with research equipment, and how to interact with participants.

Liya, BRIC Placement Student

Hands-on training in human neuroscience

Practical training connects your learning with research at the Brain Research Imaging Centre (BRIC) and the School of Psychology. Through supervised laboratory rotations, gain experience of neuroimaging and neurostimulation methods, including EEG, MRI, TMS, and TUS). Develop skills in safe working, data acquisition, signal processing and analysis, while learning how researchers choose methods to address specific questions. Your neuroscience project brings these skills together in a substantive study carried out with your academic supervisors and fellow students.
Find out more about BRIC
Staff using brain imaging equipment on young female patient in the Brain Research & Imaging Centre (BRIC)
 
 
 
 

Research-informed teaching

Learn from researchers who use neuroimaging and neurostimulation to investigate the human brain. Teaching connects established findings with current research, helping you evaluate competing explanations and understand methodological limitations. Through laboratory rotations and your supervised project, you’ll see how research questions become studies and how findings are analysed and interpreted.

Meet the teaching team

Dr Giorgio Ganis Associate Professor (Reader) in Cognitive Neuroscience


Associate Professor (Reader) in Cognitive Neuroscience

Programme Lead
Dr Nadège Bault Lecturer in Psychology (Behavioural or Cognitive Neuroscience)


Lecturer in Psychology (Behavioural or Cognitive Neuroscience)

Dr Julien Besle Lecturer in Psychology


Lecturer in Psychology

Show all

Postgraduate student life

Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification – it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options – including part-time and January start dates – you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
 
 
 
Joyita - student blogs web page

The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.

Joyita
Postgraduate student

 
 
 

Your Plymouth community

At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer – get involved, stay connected and make the most of your time here.

Enrich your studies with a society

Postgraduate study is about more than academic achievement. Joining a society is a great way to connect with other students, build friendships, develop new interests, and create a healthy balance alongside your studies.
Whether you're looking to meet people with similar interests, try something new, expand your professional network, or simply take a break from academic commitments, there's a society for everyone.
Group of postgraduate students on the Hoe on a sunny day

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 
 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£11,000 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£610 per 10 credits
 
 
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 
 2027-2028 academic year.
Full-time study
£11,350 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
To be confirmed
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about Fees and costs of studying. 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in
 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,700 per year
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in
 2027-2028 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,300 per year
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying. 
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 

Fund your studies

As a postgraduate student at Plymouth, there may be funding options available to you, including postgraduate master's loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds, that can help towards costs.

Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)

You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.

Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates

If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
  • 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Careers Hub

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Entry requirements

Most students will hold an honours degree, usually a 2:1, although we would also consider applicants who can demonstrate their ability to thrive on this programme due to professional experience.
This programme provides a privileged route for students seeking to advance their knowledge of psychology. While well suited to students with a background in the field, we welcome applications from students from other backgrounds, such as education, humanities, social sciences, biology, pure science, and engineering.
Please note that this programme does not confer graduate basis for recognition by the British Psychological Society; applicants seeking this recognition should apply to our MSc Psychology.

Extended entry requirements

  • a suitable English language qualification.
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.

Ready to apply?

Apply online

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
7664
Duration

1 year

Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
 

Search entry requirements for your country

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Extended entry requirements

  • a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element). English language requirements
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or through an agent in your country.

Apply online

Need support with your application?

  • Personal statement guidance
  • Student visa support
  • Travel and arrival information
  • and more

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
7664
Duration

1 year

Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
 
 
 

Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening

Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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