Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This programme covers the molecular, cellular and systems-level basis of neuropharmacology together with the practical laboratory and analytical skills required in contemporary neuroscience research. Teaching combines lectures, seminars and hands-on laboratory classes, and culminates in an independent research project or dissertation hosted within NTU laboratories or with an external partner.

• Core principles of neuropharmacology — receptor pharmacology, synaptic transmission, neurotransmitter systems and the pharmacodynamics/pharmacokinetics relevant to the central nervous system.
• Neurodegeneration and repair — mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
• Drug discovery and translational neuroscience — target identification, lead optimisation, in vitro and in vivo preclinical models, and the pathway from bench to clinical trial.
• Experimental techniques in neuroscience — practical training in cellular imaging, immunohistochemistry, basic electrophysiology, cell culture, molecular biology methods and behavioural assays where appropriate.
• Data analysis and statistics — quantitative approaches, experimental design, statistical testing and interpretation of complex datasets, including introduction to relevant software tools.
• Research project / dissertation — an extended laboratory-based or literature-led research project that develops independent research skills and produces a substantive dissertation.
• Professional and transferable skills — scientific writing, presentation, research ethics, project management and career development sessions.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants hold a UK undergraduate degree at 2:1 level (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject such as pharmacology, neuroscience, biomedical science, biochemistry or a related discipline. Applicants with a lower second-class degree plus relevant laboratory experience, or those who demonstrate strong professional experience in a related area, may also be considered.

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through an approved English language qualification. Specific evidence requirements are confirmed by the university admissions team and should be checked before application.

Applicants may be asked to provide an academic transcript, a personal statement outlining research interests and goals, and references. Satisfactory background checks or health screening may be required for placements or laboratory work involving animals or clinical partners.

Career prospects

Graduates of this MSc typically move into roles that use their specialist knowledge and laboratory skills across academia, industry and the public sector. Common career destinations include:

• PhD study and academic research in neuroscience or pharmacology
• Research roles in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, including drug discovery and preclinical development
• Positions in contract research organisations (CROs) and preclinical testing laboratories
• Regulatory affairs, clinical trials coordination and medical affairs roles with life-science employers
• Science policy, science communication and technical roles in diagnostics and neurotechnology firms
• Laboratory management, quality assurance and technical support roles in research institutes and hospitals

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers practical, research-informed teaching with access to modern teaching laboratories and specialised equipment for neuroscience and pharmacology work. The programme benefits from research-active academic staff whose interests span cellular neuroscience, neurodegeneration, and translational approaches to therapy development.

Students on the MSc can undertake an extended research project, often in collaboration with industrial partners, local hospitals or research centres, providing valuable real-world experience and networking opportunities. NTU also provides careers support, workshops and employer engagement activities to help students prepare for the next step in their careers.

The course is designed to develop both technical competence and transferable skills — including data analysis, scientific communication and project management — that are valued by employers in research, industry and beyond.