UOL’s Neuroscience division encompasses three main fields: Sensory, Behavioural, and Computational Neuroscience – whether you lean toward one, or shape a mix of all three is up to you. 

In this English‐taught, research-oriented Master’s, you’ll get hands-on experience in modern neuroscience whilst choosing from a wide range of modules to build a profile that matches your interests.

You’ll explore the structure and function of nervous systems at all levels: from molecules and cells to behaviour using a variety of model organisms. Alongside this, you’ll build invaluable scientific skills: data analysis, programming, science communication, and experimental design, with plenty opportunity to practically apply your skills. It’s possible to have three research projects completed before even starting your thesis!

The academic year at UOL is split into a winter semester and a summer semester: students starting MSc Neuroscience from semester one will begin in the winter term. 

Before the term officially starts, new students are invited to our Neuroscience Orientation Week which is packed with great information to get you situated before starting your studies. 

Two types of modules are offered during term time: 

• Background Modules: these cover the neuroscientific basis of the topics studied at UOL, and typically run for half of one term whilst allowing for another block course to be taken in tandem.
• Skills Modules: these cover specific skills that are invaluable for neuroscientific research, and typically run at ‚off-peak’ times (such as >4pm or on Fridays).

Some skills modules are also offered during semester breaks.

Alongside these modules, all students will completely at least one Research Module. These are individual research projects which can be carried out in a workgroup either at UOL or externally at a different institution.  

There are many active workgroups to choose from when completing research modules at the University of Oldenburg. Often students will build their interests based on the courses they select and enjoy the most. If you are interested in a particular lab or topic, independent discussion with an appropriate workgroup is highly encouraged!

Some examples of research topics include:

• How do birds localise sound?
• Deterioration of hearing with age
• How are visual signals transmitted from the retina to the brain?
• Neuron variability within invertebrates
• Functional characterisation of deafness genes
   

Graduates of MSc Neuroscience bring a strong toolkit: theory + experiment, computational + biological, lab + communication. Being taught completely in English also readies you for an international job market.

Whilst many graduates follow up their master’s thesis with a PhD and further academia, there are many opportunities for alumni:

• Work in research, R&D in biotech or pharmaceuticals
• Enter roles in data analysis, neural modelling, neurotechnology, brain-computer interfaces
• Become a science communicator, educator, or work in outreach or policy-advisory circles
• Project management or consulting roles in high-tech / healthcare sectors

Overwhelmed with possibilities? Our annual Career Day Neuroscience connects you with industry & labs to explore real-world roles.