Social Neuroscience MSc

This course gives you the opportunity to develop an advanced knowledge of how the brain responds to, and makes sense of the social world, as well as confidence in the use of neuroscientific research skills (for instance, electrophysiology and eye-tracker experiments). Humans’ social nature is based on neural, hormonal, and molecular structures and networks that we have started to understand only relatively recently. This includes studying the processes behind the sensation and perception of social stimuli, and the behaviours associated with social interactions. This highly progressive Master’s programme is designed to give you excellent learning opportunities in Social Neuroscience – supported by our department’s enthusiastic, supportive teaching staff and a technology-enriched learning environment. As you progress, you’ll have the opportunity to enhance your research skills, to help you conceptualise, design and implement a substantial piece of independent research. This, in turn, offers you a unique opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development of new ideas and approaches in Social Neuroscience. Successfully completing this course will open up a wide range of opportunities for employment, or further study at doctorate level.

Course Highlights: We’ll support you as you develop an in-depth and advanced knowledge of Social Neuroscience, both in terms of theory and evidence; You’ll have ongoing opportunities to develop highly sought-after skills in critical evaluation and reflection in relation to Social Neuroscience theories and research techniques; Focused research training is designed to support and guide you in conceptualising, designing and implementing independent research in Social Neuroscience. Key Features: Enthusiastic, dedicated and supportive teaching makes this an engaging and exciting postgraduate opportunity. The course curriculum explores issues from a balanced range of perspectives, and is supported by a research-informed knowledge base. This is an exciting programme of study with a strong emphasis on research and critical enquiry. Learning and teaching is student-centred and involves small group sessions and one-to-one tutorials. This is supported and enhanced by the University’s virtual learning environment.

Career Opportunities: Graduates of this course will have a thorough grounding in the neural mechanisms underpinning human social perception, cognition and behaviour. On successful completion you’ll possess a range of highly transferable skills, such as oral and written communication, and the management and analysis of complex data sets. This MSc is designed to prepare you for a potential career in research, and is also relevant to those with an interest in clinical psychology or in work in the biomedical sector. Students will also achieve PGDip and PGCert.

Students should have an Upper Second Class (2.1) Honours degree (or higher) in Psychology, which is accredited by the British Psychology Society for Graduate Basis for Registration (GBR) of the British Psychological Society (BPS). If they have a Lower Second Class (2:2) Honours degree in Psychology or a related subject (e.g. Neuroscience), then they may be accepted on to the programme following a successful interview. We may also ask they to provide a portfolio of their work, as part of the application process. Relevant work experience can also provide an advantage.