Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience MSc

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the developing relationship between human brain and behaviour. It draws on evidence from physiological, cognitive and neuroscientific research to examine the development of key cognitive processes including sensory processing, learning and memory, language, action perception and production, and emotion processing at different stages of life. Typical cognitive functioning is considered alongside atypical functioning in individuals with developmental disorders or acquired pathology.

The “reproducibility crisis” in Psychology (and in science more generally) has been vigorously debated in recent years in terms of its existence, nature, causes and possible solutions.  Many changes to research practice have as a result been introduced and proposed, commonly referred to collectively as “Open Science”.  In broad terms these changes aim to promote and support greater openness and transparency at all stages of the research process.  These changes are also evolving and contested as new concerns are identified.    

This module aims to familiarise students with these debates so that they can navigate their way through these rapidly developing changes.  The module will also introduce students to current tools that support Open Science.

This module aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the recording and analysis of EEG data within the context of cognitive neuroscience experiments. Students will gain hands-on experience in collecting EEG data and applying analytical techniques to interpret neural activity. The module emphasises critical engagement with cognitive neuroscience by exploring how EEG findings can inform our understanding of cognitive and mental processes. Students will develop the skills necessary to draw robust inferences from EEG data, linking neural patterns to theoretical models of cognition. Through practical sessions and theoretical discussions, the module will foster an appreciation for the challenges and opportunities inherent in using EEG to study the brain.

This module is designed to equip students with the statistical literacy needed to confidently analyse, interpret, and communicate data in psychological science and beyond. Students will develop a deep understanding of key statistical concepts and learn how to apply them to real-world psychological research. Through engaging with data, students will refine their ability to interpret and evaluate quantitative evidence, making sense of statistical language and understanding its relevance in different contexts. By the end of the module, students will be able to approach data-driven questions with confidence, selecting and applying the right techniques to draw meaningful conclusions. Most importantly, students will gain the skills to communicate complex findings clearly and persuasively, whether in reports, presentations, or professional discussions, ensuring that students can use data not just to analyse, but to inform and inspire.

Cognitive neuroscience is the study of brain states and how such brain states are related to behaviour and cognition. Many of the recent advances in the field are due to the rapid development and use of technology that allows us to infer what the brain is doing during different psychological states. This module introduces the theory that underpins cognitive neuroscience techniques such as TMS, fMRI, TES and a critical understanding of experimental design. Moreover, and importantly, the module aims to provide an experience-based approach to learning. This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to learn about topics in cognitive neuroscience research how this research is conducted.

This module provides students with an opportunity for in-depth, advanced study in a specific area of psychology, pertinent to the degree for which they are registered, guided by, but largely independent of, tutor support. Students will apply appropriate principles of planning and conducting research, and present their research study in the form of a written journal-style article, using appropriate styles and conventions.

The module reviews our current understanding of the epidemiology, aetiology, pathology, diagnostic investigations and treatment interventions of a range of neurological conditions that are of great public interest today. A primary aim of the module is to enable students to interpret clinical and neuropathological data for the purpose of either research or clinical diagnosis. The emphasis will be on acquiring familiarity with the practical skills involved with specialist technologies and investigations such as evoked potentials, nerve conduction and electromyography (EMG), with particular focus on interpreting diagnostic information acquired in surgical and Intensive Care Unit (ITU) environments.

You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience. The course is delivered by our academics and industry partners in person and via digital platforms.

Our learning activities include lab practicals, lectures, seminars, webinars, one-to-one and tutorials. Importantly, you'll attend laboratory sessions and take part in class discussions and work on research projects, group assignments and critical analyses.

Our Hendon campus, north London. Some modules are taught at the West Stand, StoneX Stadium.

Whether you are studying full or part-time – your course timetable will balance your study commitments on campus with time for work, life commitments and independent study.

We aim to make timetables available to students at least 2 weeks before the start of term. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on-campus sessions.

In a typical year, you’ll spend about 1200 hours on your course.

Outside of teaching hours, you’ll learn independently through reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, and preparing for assessments including coursework and presentations.

Typical weekly breakdown

Here's how a typical week will look like:

Approximate number of hours on placement

• Full-time students: 35 hours
• Part-time students: 35 hours

Part-time study

You can also study this course part-time over two years.

We have a strong support network online and on campus to help you develop your academic skills. We offer one-to-one and group sessions to develop your learning skills together with academic support from our library, IT teams and learning experts.

There are no exams but your coursework including tests, projects, statistical assignments, essays, reports, logbooks and case study analyses will be assessed.

A major part of your assessment will be your 10,000 to 15,000-word dissertation, which will be accompanied by a 1,500-word research proposal and a 10-minute presentation, on which you will receive feedback from fellow students as well as your tutor.

You'll evaluate your work, skills and knowledge and identify areas for improvement. Sometimes you'll work in groups and assess each other's progress. Each term, you'll get regular feedback on your learning.