This is an interdisciplinary degree course organised by the Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, with significant contributions from a number of other departments. It is a rapidly-expanding field of study and this course is intended to provide graduates with a thorough basic training in this area of increasing importance. Neuroscience is studied at the molecular, cell and systems level.

Year 1
Core Modules:

Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Mathematics

Year 2

Foundation modules in anatomy, physiology and biochemistry deal with molecules, cells and tissues, the principles of human structural organisation and the relationship of structure to function. Core Modules:

Molecular Biology
Biostatistics
Principles of Human Structure
Mammalian Cell and Tissue Structure
Introductory Physiology
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiology
Biomolecules and Metabolic Pathways

Year 3
Detailed study of the human nervous system commences and this is placed in the general context of the structure and development of the human body as a whole. Other modules concentrate on the principles of molecular biology and the biochemistry, pharmacology and diseases of the nervous system. Core modules:

Human Nervous System
Neurobiology of Regulatory Systems
Human Embryology and Developmental Biology
Human Regional Neuroanatomy
Neurobiology of Disease
Molecular Biology
Biochemistry of the CNS
Pharmacology
Research Methodology in Neuroscience
Library Project

Plus one elective module.

Year 4
You will study the nervous system in detail and undertake a substantial research project, supported by modules in research techniques (Year 3) and in developing scientific literacy through structured review of neuroscience research. Core modules:

• Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience 
• Developmental Neurobiology
• Behavioural and Cognitive Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging and Biomedical Devices in the Neurosciences
• Advanced Topics in Neuroscience
• Neuropharmacology 
• Molecular Basis of Brain Disorders
• Research Project

Plus one elective module

See the College Calendar for more detailed information on the programme and the Book of Modules for a more detailed description of programme modules.

Leaving Certificate entry requirements: 

H5 in two subjects, and O6 in four other subjects in the Leaving Certificate from Irish, English, Mathematics, one Laboratory Science subject (i.e.   Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Physics with Chemistry (joint) or Agricultural Science) and two other subjects recognised for entry purposes.  

Additional Requirements:  H4 in a Laboratory Science subject or Mathematics or Applied Mathematics.

Mature students:  Applicants should apply directly to the CAO. Applicants are assessed on the basis of academic and/or professional background in a science-related discipline, evidenced by exam results and  their personal statement.  Approximately seven places are available on this course for mature students.

International Students should visit the International Education website.

FETAC Requirements.

EU Applicants: Application to Year 1 of the degree programme is made directly through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Applicants should apply online at www.cao.ie. The normal closing date for receipt of completed applications is 1st February of the year of entry.

Non-EU Applicants

Mature Applicants:  Application is made through the CAO and the closing date for receipt of completed applications is 1st February of the year of proposed entry.

This course comprises a combination of lectures, practicals (experiments) and tutorials/workshops.

See the College Calendar for more detailed information on the programme and the Book of Modules for a more detailed description of programme modules.

Written exams will take place before Christmas and in May.  Not all modules will have formal examinations.  Many modules use other types of assessment.