University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules with a substantial research project. Core teaching typically covers theoretical foundations of cognitive neuroscience, experimental design and advanced quantitative methods. Practical training familiarises students with common empirical techniques such as functional neuroimaging (fMRI), electroencephalography (EEG)/event-related potentials, and behavioural paradigms used to probe perception, attention, memory and decision-making.

• Core topics: cognitive neuroscience theories; cognitive neuropsychology; contemporary models of perception, attention, memory and language.
• Methods and analysis: experimental design, statistical modelling for neuroscience, programming for data analysis (e.g. scripting in Python/Matlab environments), preprocessing and analysis of neuroimaging and electrophysiological data.
• Research skills: scientific reasoning, reproducible research practices, critical appraisal of empirical literature, and ethical conduct of human neuroscience research.
• Optional modules: depending on availability, students may choose specialist topics such as developmental cognitive neuroscience, clinical neuroscience, computational modelling, or advanced statistics.
• Dissertation: an independent research project supervised by academic staff, involving experimental work or secondary analysis of neuroimaging/electrophysiological datasets and culminating in a written thesis and often a presentation or poster.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good UK honours degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in psychology, neuroscience, biological sciences, computer science, engineering or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a lower-class honours degree may be considered if they have relevant research experience or postgraduate study. Demonstrable numerical and programming skills are desirable because of the quantitative components of the course.

Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the University's recognised English language requirements. International applicants should consult the School of Psychology admissions guidance for details on acceptable qualifications and documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates from this MSc go on to a range of roles in academia, healthcare and industry. Typical destinations include research assistantships and PhD study in cognitive neuroscience or related fields, roles in neuroimaging or clinical research units, positions in data science and analytics, and neurotechnology or biomedical companies. The programme also provides a strong foundation for careers in scientific communication, policy roles related to brain and mental health, and further training in clinical psychology or allied health professions when combined with appropriate experience.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham hosts an active cognitive neuroscience community within a research-led School of Psychology, offering students access to experienced academic supervisors and interdisciplinary collaborations across allied departments. The programme emphasises practical, hands-on training with opportunities to work on live research projects and to develop transferrable technical skills in experimental methods and data analysis. Nottingham's connections with regional NHS services and industry partners create pathways for applied research experience and professional networking, while campus facilities and postgraduate support services help students develop their academic and career plans.