Ranking
8th
In the QS World Rankings
Course overview
Start your journey into the fascinating realms of cognitive and computational neuroscience. You’ll gain profound insights into groundbreaking theories and get hands-on experience with cutting-edge neuroimaging and data science techniques.
You'll gain hands-on experience with advanced neuroimaging tools (MRI, MEG, EEG, brain stimulation, fNIRS) at the Centre for Human Brain Health. Develop crucial skills in problem-solving and data analysis. This includes collaboration with top researchers from the School of Psychology, and Computer Science to hone your expertise in cognitive neuroimaging and data science. Choose from two pathways: Cognitive Neuroscience and Computational Neuroscience.
Course Structure
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis. While the exact content may change, in the first term you will typically complete the compulsory modules while in the second you will be able to choose from a range of optional modules. This is based on a full time Masters course. For part-time students we will devise a study plan in the first weeks tailoring your studies to your non-academic commitments.
Course highlights
- Develop real-world skills attractive to employers
- Dedicated Centre for Human Brain Health (CHBH)
- Choose from two pathways
- Access BlueBEAR, the Unviersity supercomputer
Course delivery
Our diverse teaching methods ensure a well-rounded educational experience, with assessments preparing you for the real-world challenges and choice of optional modules allowing your to tailor your own journey.
- Lectures and seminars - delivered by experts in the field
- Journal clubs - discuss important topics with your peers
- Workshops - support your development in specific topics and skillsets
Module information
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
The course comprises of a series of taught core and optional modules. The core modules are designed to promote development of skills in experimental design, analysis, and scientific writing. Please note that the exact content and assessment in the modules may vary.
- Taught modules (20 credits each)– these include lectures, seminars, journal clubs and workshops.
- Research-based modules (20 credits each)– working on your own and/or in groups, you’ll enjoy regular supervision and directed research work.
- Dissertation - (60 credits)
- Assessments - these will include essays and reports, along with peer assessments, plus oral and poster presentations.
For students on the Cognitive Neuroimaging pathway the following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Cognitive Neuroscience Methods and Applications | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Data Science for Brain and Behaviour | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM MSc Research Project | 60 | |
| LM Proposing Research in Psychology | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Research Methods & Skills in Psychology | 20 | Semester 1 |
Students on the Cognitive Neuroscience pathway must choose 40 credits of optional modules:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Application of Electrophysiological Approaches in Cognitive Neuroscience | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Foundations of Data Science | 10 | Semester 2 |
| LM Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Cognitive Neuroscience | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Translational Cognitive Neuroscience | 20 | Semester 1 |
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours degree
in a relevant subject (eg, Psychology, Neuroscience, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering or Mathematics).
Regarding the Cognitive Neuroscience pathway, applicants should have gained at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) in the research dissertation (i.e. experience of planning and conducting research and analysing data). Applicants who do not meet our requirement for a 2:1 in their final-year research project, but who have gained significant research experience in a cognitive neuroscience research lab(s) will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
With respect to the Computational Neuroscience pathway, you must have a strong interest in learning in an interdisciplinary environment and must have substantial quantitative skills. Programming skills in Python, Matlab, Java, and/or C are desirable.
A personal statement template is available to help you ensure your personal statement meets our requirements. Failure to include the requested information in the personal statement will result in delays to processing the decision on your application.
Fees and scholarships
- £10,900
Full-time
- £5,450
Part-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only; for those studying courses over two or more years, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Postgraduate Masters Loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Birmingham Masters Scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
- 29 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Career opportunities
You will not only be equipped to excel in research roles within both the private and public sectors but also have a competitive edge with your problem-solving and advanced analytical skills. These abilities are in high demand for roles that involve data-driven research, strategic decision-making, and strategic planning. Furthermore, this MSc serves as a robust foundation for those aspiring to pursue a PhD or other advanced degrees, setting the stage for a journey in academia or specialised industry roles.
You will have the opportunity to interact with a range of researchers with different types of expertise who will help you develop your specific interests and skills. This degree will help you further your career, whether the next step is an academic PhD position or a professional job in the workplace.
Careers Network
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham has developed into a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.