Neuroscience
Learn the science behind how the brain and the nervous system work, focusing on the scientific understanding of the nervous system from genes to behaviour.
Explore topics such as the neural control of movement, neuropharmacology and disorders of the nervous system, such as motorneuron disease (ALS) and dementia.
At St Andrews, you will gain an understanding of neuroscience from the level of single proteins to higher brain functions such as memory formation and cognitive processing. You will also have access to state-of-the-art facilities to learn crucial lab skills and gain hands-on experience running your own experiments.
Undergraduate
Postgraduate taught
Postgraduate research
The School of Psychology and Neuroscience offers PhD and MSc (by research) programmes. Research in psychology and neuroscience typically fall into one of four key themes:
- cellular and developmental neuroscience
- origins of mind
- perception, cognition and action
- social and group processes.
To apply, you should first identify and contact a potential supervisor you would like to work with in your intended research area. Find out how to contact a research supervisor.
“I have been able to take a breadth of classes, in other Schools too, allowing me to learn a wide range of different skills. The class size is small, so we are personally guided through the course while also being challenged to think independently.”
- County Down, Northern Ireland
Awards
First in the UK for Neuroscience
Guardian University Guide 2024
91% of research activity rated 3* or 4*
Most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021)
School of Psychology and Neuroscience
The School of Psychology and Neuroscience at St Andrews bridges the two disciplines through internationally recognised research and teaching. The School promotes a research-based culture of teaching across a wide breadth of psychology and neuroscience topics.
School of Biology
With purpose-built facilities, the School of Biology at St Andrews is recognised as a world leader. Many modules and courses related to neuroscience are offered by this School.
Studying in St Andrews
The University offers a variety of flexible entry options in order to allow all students, regardless of background or personal circumstances, to apply.
Scholarships and funding options are available at every level of study.
St Andrews has variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Visit St Andrews
If you’re interested in studying at St Andrews, join us at a visiting day or talk and tour to explore the town, find out about our courses and meet current students. You can also join us for one of our upcoming online events.
