Neuroscience is a vibrant and emerging discipline that seeks to understand the development, structure and function of the nervous system, as well as giving insights into possible therapies for neural diseases and disorders. The field of neuroscience draws its impetus from recent advances in molecular and cell biology, neuroimaging, systems neuroscience and bioinformatics, as well as incorporating a wide variety of conventional disciplines including anatomy, neurology, psychology and psychiatry.
One of the key strengths of the Neuroscience BSc at King's is its focus on research. Our neuroscience research centres are at the forefront of the field and their work informs the delivery and shape of our course.
Our undergraduate course will provide you with an integrated knowledge base in neuroscience, and a wide set of skills, including analytical and critical thinking, and the ability to understand and communicate complex ideas through different media.
This course forms part of the suite of ‘Common Year one’ courses within the School of Bioscience Education. These comprise Anatomy, Developmental & Human Biology; Biochemistry; Biomedical Science; Medical Physiology; Molecular Genetics; Neuroscience; Pharmacology; Pharmacology & Molecular Genetics. Once you have successfully completed year one, you can choose to switch to any other course within this suite.
In your second year, you will specialise in neuroscience, taking an integrated range of courses from molecular and developmental biology, neuroanatomy and physiology up to psychological theories of mind. These modules are integrated to provide an overview of neuroscience disciplines and to give you the knowledge to progress to the third year where you will further specialise, choosing one of three pathways: Neuroscience – Laboratory Research; Neuroscience and Neuropsychology, or; Neuroscience – Literature and Practical Topics.
In year two you may also choose to study abroad at one of our partner institutions, or you can apply to undertake an extra-mural or work placement, usually at a leading biomedicine employer.
Alternatively, after the ‘Common Year one’ course, you can apply to transfer to one of our four-year MSci courses: Biochemistry MSci; Molecular Genetics MSci; Neuroscience MSci. In year three you can apply to transfer to the four-year Integrated Pharmacology and Physiology for Research MSci .
Teaching
Teaching on this course takes place in lectures, seminars and tutorials and through practical laboratory work. The rest of your time will be spent on self-study, including reading, research and writing assignments.
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Course stage
|
Percentage of time in scheduled learning and teaching activities
|
Percentage of time in guided independent study
|
Percentage of time on placements
|
|
Year 1
|
25%
|
75%
|
- |
|
Year 2
|
28%
|
72%
|
- |
|
Year 320
|
%
|
80%
|
-
|
Assessment
You will be assessed through a combination of coursework, examinations and practical observation.
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Course stage
|
Percentage of Assessment by Written Exams
|
Percentage of Assessment by Practical Exams
|
Percentage of Assessment by Coursework
|
|
Year 1
|
78%
|
5%
|
17%
|
|
Year 2
|
69%
|
5%
|
26%
|
|
Year 3
|
33%
|
13%
|
54%
|
If you choose an extra-mural placement this will be assessed through a written dissertation and a poster presentation and which will be deemed equivalent to 60 credits at level 6 (the normal level of year 3 study).
Course accreditation
In recognition of its focus on research and academic excellence, our Neuroscience with extra-mural year BSc has been given Advanced Degree accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology. Graduates of an accredited course can apply for membership of the Royal Society of Biology at Member (MRSB) level after just one year of practice, rather than the usual three years. This will allow you to attain the qualifications of Chartered Biologist or Chartered Scientist two years earlier than graduates from other degree courses
Regulating body
King’s College London is regulated by the Office for Students.
Location
This course is primarily taught at our Guy’s and Denmark Hill Campuses, putting you at the heart of everything London has to offer in terms of academic resources and also close to its social and entertainment attractions.