This is a sample pathway for a degree in Neuroscience. Topics include membrane biology, developmental neuroscience, higher cortical function, synaptic plasticity, sensory neuroscience, as well as core modules in biomolecular and biomedical science.

First Year

Biology • Chemistry • Mathematics • Optional Science modules • Elective module

Second Year

Neuroscience • + 2 other Science subjects • Elective modules

Third Year

Neuroscience • Elective modules

Fourth Year

Neuroscience (includes a research project in topics such as neurodegenerative diseases, cognition and synaptic plasticity).

Timetables & Assessment

Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full-time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials, depending on the subjects. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.

As a Neuroscience graduate, you will have the opportunity to obtain employment in:

• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies
• Medical research, including drug development and clinical trials
• Hospital and university laboratories
• Neuroscience research institutes
• Government agencies

Neuroscience graduates also pursue graduate studies at MSc or PhD level. PhD programmes in Ireland and abroad cover areas as diverse as biotechnology, cell biology, and biomedical and health science. Many graduates also pursue graduate medicine and graduate pharmacy courses.

International Study Opportunities

A limited number of Fourth Year projects are available in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of Copenhagen, Denmark; the Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum; and in the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt.

Professional Work Experience

A limited number of opportunities exist in second and third year to gain additional laboratory experience during the summer. Funded schemes are organised by public and private bodies, e.g. the Irish Health Research Board and The Wellcome Trust (UK). In addition, occasional opportunities arise within individual research groups.

"UCD Science allowed me to tailor my degree to encompass all the aspects of science I need in order to succeed while keeping me intrigued and excited along the way. In third year, I was lucky to partake in the Erasmus Programme at the University of Nottingham, which gave me a different insight into the scope of neuroscience and the opportunities it presents. UCD offering multiple opportunities to travel and learn really highlights their dedication to offering the best possible education and to encouraging us to develop as a person! In addition, I had the absolute privilege of doing a 6-month thesis project in The Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, which allowed me to work as a real scientist in a lab, something I see myself doing in the future."

Jodie Bermingham, Graduate