If you have an interest in the area of science, want to play a part in new research and make new discoveries, neuroscience could be an area of your interest. If you have a critical mind, analytical skills and strong research skills, you have some of the most important qualities for this area. Have a look and see if the information below can aid you in your search for your ideal undergraduate degree.
What is neuroscience?
Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system. It focuses on understanding how cells interact with each other from the brain and many other bodily functions as well as the certain malfunctions that can happen in the nervous system.
What third level courses are available?
Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering courses in the following subject areas:
- Neuroscience – UCD, TCD, UCC
Studying Neuroscience in college
There are a number of undergraduate courses in neuroscience in Ireland. All courses are usually four years in length and will give you the opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge in the area while combining theory and practical work.
Like any undergraduate course, the first year of the course will always act as a foundation year where you will become familiar with the basics of neuroscience as well as gain an insight as to what will come throughout your course in the coming years. In your first year, modules you will cover may include biology, chemistry, mathematics and your choice of other science modules.
Your second year of a neuroscience undergraduate degree you will cover areas such as molecular biology, biostatistics, principles of human structure, mammalian cell and tissue structure, cardiovascular and respiratory physiology as well as biomolecules and metabolic pathways.
Your third year in your course will go into even more details of the human nervous system as well as covering areas such as neurobiology of regulatory systems, human embryology and developmental biology, human regional neuroanatomy, neurobiology of disease and pharmacology to name just a few subject areas.
Your final year will be largely focused on your research project while also continuing your study in advanced topics such as advanced topics in neuroscience, neuropharmacology, behavioural and cognitive neuroscience and many more.
Courses may differ in their exact content and layout. The above information is based on the Neuroscience course available in UCC.
Career Options
As a neuroscientist you will be conducting a lot of research on the nervous system, the brain, the spinal cord, nerve cells and also make new discoveries and queries about the human brain and anything to do with the nervous system. You will also play a part in developing pharmaceuticals for different disorders.
Neuroscience is an area that mostly desires and requires masters degrees and often PhDs. This means that many in the area will complete their undergraduate degree and continue on their study at postgraduate level and on to a doctorate. You can also go into the area of research working in universities around Ireland. Lecturing in universities is another option after you gain some experience in the field.
Skills and qualities that are important in this area include strong communication skills, the ability to use medical tools and computer programs or the ability to learn, a critical thinker, decision making skills, reasoning skills, organisation skills, time management skills, ability to recognise patterns and analyse information.
Related Jobs
- Neuroscientist
- Pathology
- Pharmacologist
- Health Science
- Virology
- Oncology
- Interventional Radiation
- Infectious disease
Further Study
Visit postgrad.ie for more information.
FAQ
Different courses and different colleges will have different entry requirements. It’s always safest to check with the individual higher education institution which is available on their websites. As a general rule Leaving Cert students should have a minimum of six subjects which should
include: Two H5 (Higher Level) grades and Four O6 (Ordinary Level) grades or four H7 (Higher Level) grades. Subjects must include Mathematics, Irish or another language, and English.
Certain QQI Awards in a relevant area may also be accepted. These change from course to course so be sure to research further.
Points to study Neuroscience in University College Dublin were 533 points in 2020 while points for the same course in Trinity College Dublin were 470 points.
Where can I study?
You can explore your options here.
Did you know?
- The average adult brain weighs around 3 pounds
- Neuroscience combines physiology, anatomy, molecular biology, developmental biology, cytology, computer science and mathematical modeling
- Scientists say that the average person’s best memory and ability to recall information peaks around the age of 20
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