MSc Neuropharmacology

Course Overview

Programme outcomes (what students are expected to be able to do)

To demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the principles and concepts of neuropharmacology.
To demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the recent developments and applications in the field of neuropharmacology.
To demonstrate a high skill level in a wide range of laboratory skills for neuropharmacological investigations.
To communicate experimental findings in neuropharmacology effectively, using a variety of verbal, written and visual means.
To design, conduct, analyse and present their original laboratory-based research.

Course Content

The programme is 90 ECTS in total; it runs from September-July and is divided into three trimesters (each of 30 ECTS) in the following manner:

* Click on a module to see example Module Handbooks

Trimester One (30 ECTS - September-December)

Neurophysiology (SI209 - 5 ECTS)
Central Neurotransmission (PM5101 - 5 ECTS)
Fundamental Concepts in Pharmacology (PM208 - 5 ECTS)
Applied Concepts in Pharmacology (PM209 - 5 ECTS)
Experimental Methods in Pharmacology (PM5102 -10 ECTS)

Trimester Two (30 ECTS - January-March)

Experimental Neuropharmacology (PM5103 - 15 ECTS)
Current Topics in Neuropharmacology (PM5104 -10 ECTS)
Neuropharmacology & Therapeutics (PM5105 - 5 ECTS)

Trimester Three (30 ECTS - May-July)

Neuropharmacology Research Project (30 ECTS)

Assessment

A variety of different assessment strategies are used including written examinations, laboratory practicals and mini-project reports, assignments, data handling computer exercises, experimental reasoning, essays, posters, oral presentations and a research project thesis.

Career Opportunities

The majority of graduates of the programme have entered the workforce either in technical or research roles within hospitals, universities or companies, mostly in Ireland. In addition, approximately one-third have embarked on PhD research following graduation.

Applications

Applications are made online via the NUI Galway Postgraduate Applications System. Applicants, at the discretion of the selection committee, may be invited to attend a personal interview. Places are limited.
The MSc in Neuropharmacology offers places on a rolling basis and applications are considered starting from November of each academic year.
On average the course takes 15 students.
Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible for the following academic year.
Course Fees

Entry Requirements:

Successful applicants will normally hold at least a Second Class Honours Level 8 degree (2.2 minimum) from a diversity of undergraduate disciplines, ranging from Chemistry through Life Science subjects (Anatomy, Biochemistry, Botany, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Physiology, Zoology) to Psychology.
Students are also considered who have a Level 7 degree and three years of relevant work experience.
An IELTS score of 6.5+ (with not less than 6 in any one component) is required for students where English is not their native language.

Course Director: Dr. Andrea Kwakowsky

Phone: +353 91 493012

E-mail: andrea.kwakowsky@universityofgalway.ie