Overview
Course Overview
The M.Sc. in Neuroscience studies the functioning of the nervous system at all levels, from the molecules that make up individual nerve cells, to the complexities of animal and human behaviour. A major focus is on the molecular, biochemical and cellular basis of neurotransmission and synaptic function. The course also covers the physiology, pathophysiology, drug development and pharmacological treatment of psychiatric, neurodegenerative and neurological disorders.
The course provides students with a broad based appreciation of the neurosciences, and in-depth instruction in certain specialised areas of neuroscience from both a theoretical and practical standpoint. From a practical perspective the course involves in-depth instruction in novel methodologies used in neuroscience / biomedical research, including the fundamentals of molecular, biochemical, and cellular biology. In addition to neuroscience specific knowledge and skills, this M.Sc. programme also trains the student to become proficient in a range of transferable skills such as experimental design, data handling, research methods and written / oral communication skills. The course provides students with a well-balanced and integrated theoretical and practical knowledge of neuroscience, and to highlight the progress and intellectual challenges in this exciting and fast-developing discipline.
Is This Course For Me?
Since its foundation, the M.Sc. in Neuroscience has taught more than 400 students, who have come from academic backgrounds including neuroscience, physiology, pharmacology, chemistry, medicine and others. The course is ideal for students wishing to extend their specialised knowledge, and for those wishing to convert from their original degree discipline.
Career Opportunities
The course will equip participants with the skills necessary to progress into a career in biomedical, pharmaceutical or neurological research. Graduates have pursued medical and health-related degrees, direct entry into research labs, as well as PhD research across the world.
Course Structure
Term dates: The course runs for a full year, normally starting in September and running to July in the following year.
Instruction for the course consists of approximately 200 contact hours over two academic terms to include lectures, laboratory practical sessions, journal club workshops and student-based seminars. Modules are assessed by a mixture of in course assessment and written examinations.
Course Content
This one year programme aims to provide a multidisciplinary training in the neurosciences, in topics ranging from molecular, cellular and pharmaceutical neuroscience.
Specialist modules include: Form and Function of the Nervous System; Biochemical Basis of Neuropharmacology; Neuropharmacology; Drug Development; Experimental Neuroscience; Literature review; Neural Engineering; Data Science in Neuroimaging; Research Skills in Epilepsy; Molecular Protocols in Neuroscience; Clinical Research and Development Skills; Statistical Skills; and a Research Project.
The third term consists of a Research Project on some novel aspect of Neuroscience.
For further information on modules/subjects, click here.
Study Neuroscience (M.Sc.) at Trinity
This one-year Masters course provides multidisciplinary neurosciences training, in topics ranging from molecular to behavioural neuroscience. The course is ideal for students who want to extend their specialised knowledge and for those wishing to convert from their original degree discipline.
Course Details
Awards
NFQ Level 9Number of Places
25 PlacesNext Intake
September 2027
Course Director
Professor Kumlesh K. Dev
Closing Date
30 June 2027

Admission Requirements
Candidates must hold a third level qualification, ideally in Biological Sciences, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Physiology, Biochemistry, Medicine or a related discipline. Applicants should have achieved at least an upper second-class (2.1) Honour's bachelor degree or its equivalent.
English Language Requirements
All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements. For more details of qualifications that meet Band B, see the English Language Requirements page here.
Course Fees
For a full list of postgraduate fees, click here.
Apply
To apply to this course, click on the relevant Apply Link below. Please note that places on the course may fill before the application deadline, so early application is encouraged. Eligible applicants may be added to a waitlist if all places are currently filled.
Register Your Interest
Register your interest in studying at Ireland’s leading university, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin.
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I love how some modules use a unique approach that goes beyond the standard lectures, including workshops and conferences led by professionals in the field. I think it is very valuable and enriching for the students and helps them gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a scientific career in Neuroscience.
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