Neuropsychology – (M.Sc.)

The programme includes significant contributions from professional neuropsychologists and some input from neurosurgeons working within the NHS as well as from academics within the Department of Experimental Psychology. The course bridges the gap between academic papers and the reality of neuropsychological disorders by providing you with a placement in an NHS neuropsychology unit and an opportunity to observe professional neuropsychologists during patient assessment. There are also opportunities to undertake course-related project work within the Neurosciences Institute of North Bristol NHS Trust Frenchay Hospital in Bristol, which has a worldwide reputation for its pioneering work.

The first term includes coverage of neuroscientific techniques and also an introduction to the principles of clinical neuropsychological assessment presented in conjuction with a review of a series of neuropsychological disorders.

The second term covers a range of theoretical issues within neuropsychology, including theories of vision, attention, human development, emotion, sleep, memory, consciousness, and hemispheric specialisation. Term two also provides an opportunity to write a theoretical dissertation on a topic within neuropsychology of interest to you.

The third term is dedicated to a substantial research project. We are able to offer a range of projects which involve collaboration with neuropsychologists working within the NHS. Alternatively, we offer projects which allow students to explore neuropsychological issues in non-clinical populations.

One of the central objectives of this MSc is to give you insights into the global organisation of the human brain. Put simply, how does the brain actually work? While there are no definitive answers to this question, we introduce a range of theories which attempt to provide partial answers. Understanding at this level provides a basis for understanding a variety of clinical syndromes and raises a host of theoretically interesting issues.