Keele University

What you'll study

This programme combines molecular, cellular and systems-level approaches to understanding the nervous system, together with cognitive and behavioural perspectives. Teaching blends lectures, seminars, laboratory practicals and small-group tutorials, and emphasises research skills and statistical analysis.

• Year 1/Introductory modules: foundational biology and chemistry for neuroscientists; introduction to neural structure and function; basic neuroscience laboratory skills; statistics and experimental design; introduction to cognitive neuroscience and psychology.
• Year 2/core modules: cellular and molecular neuroscience; neuropharmacology; sensory and motor systems; synaptic physiology and development; research methods and intermediate statistics; laboratory-based projects and data analysis.
• Final year/specialist modules: advanced topics in systems and cognitive neuroscience, neurodegenerative diseases, computational neuroscience and neural modelling, neuroimaging methods and advanced neuropharmacology; a substantial independent research project or dissertation based in one of Keele’s research groups.
• Practical experience: extensive hands-on laboratory practicals across years, coursework focused on experimental design and analysis, and opportunities to undertake a laboratory-based final-year project supervised by academic staff. Optional modules and project topics often reflect active research themes in the School.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong science background. Typical offers ask for good passes in three A-levels or equivalent qualifications, normally including at least one of biology, chemistry, physics or mathematics. Applicants without a direct science background may be considered if they show evidence of relevant study or experience; there are also alternative entry routes and foundation-year options for eligible students.

GCSE-level passes in English and mathematics (or equivalent) are usually required. International qualifications (such as the IB, international school credentials or overseas equivalents) are accepted when they demonstrate comparable achievement. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet Keele’s English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from Keele’s Neuroscience programme progress into a wide range of pathways. Many go on to postgraduate study (MSc, MRes, PhD) in neuroscience, neuroimaging, cognitive science or related disciplines; others move into healthcare-related roles, clinical research, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, or regulatory and clinical trials positions.

Other common destinations include science communication, teaching (with additional teacher training), laboratory support and technical posts, data analysis and bioinformatics, neurorehabilitation support roles, and roles in medical devices and diagnostics. The research-led, practical training provided on the degree equips graduates with transferable laboratory, analytical and problem‑solving skills valued across STEM careers.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based student experience with accessible research-active staff and relatively small cohort sizes, which supports close supervision of laboratory work and final-year projects. The School’s teaching integrates biological and psychological perspectives, reflecting Keele’s strength in interdisciplinary life-science education.

Students benefit from dedicated laboratory facilities, opportunities to engage with ongoing research projects, and a supportive approach to student development including academic tutorials and careers guidance. Keele also provides options for placement experiences, collaborative links with local health services and industry contacts, and active student societies related to neuroscience and psychology that help build professional networks and practical experience outside formal teaching.