Ranking
56th
in the world for Medicine
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Course overview
Explore the mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric conditions and neurotransmitter systems on this MRes Neuropharmacology. Deepen your understanding of the challenges of developing more effective treatments and interventions.
Neuroscience is one of the greatest opportunities for new drug discovery and development.
On this MRes, you'll learn how current research into the neurotransmitter systems of the brain can further our understanding of normal brain function and dysfunction.
From understanding how the brain develops and changes, processes information and adapts to injury, to unravelling neural circuits underlying behaviour and shaping the future of youth mental health services, Birmingham offers an integrated and translational approach to brain science.
I feel extremely privileged to have been welcomed into Birmingham’s research team so warmly. The invaluable knowledge, expertise, and encouragement from my supervisors and other staff members have truly sculpted me into the scientist that I am today.
Course Structure
This course will run over 12 months, full-time. While the exact content may change, here’s what you can expect to study each term. This is based on a full time Masters course.
Term 1
Term 1
In the first term, you'll undertake two taught modules to ensure that you have a basic grounding in all aspects of the field and to introduce the topics and research questions on which your projects are to be based.
Term 2
Term 2
In the second term, after consulting with potential supervisors you'll select an eight-month, laboratory-based research project. You'll then become part of a leading research group to carry out your focused research project.
Term 3
Term 3
In the third term you'll continue to work on your laboratory-based research project.
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Course highlights
By studying this MRes, you'll explore how interdisciplinary research helps us understand disease development and how dysfunction occurs. You'll also recognize the complexity involved in developing new therapies within neuroscience.
Birmingham Neuroscience
We're at the forefront of neuroscience research, bridging fundamental and translational research with real-world impact.
With a strong interdisciplinary ethos, the university is home to multiple neuroscience research centres that span molecular genetics, brain imaging, neurotrauma, and mental health.
As part of the MRes, you’ll join a Neuroscience research group and gain access to state-of-the-art facilities.
These include the Department of Biomedical Research, the Welcome Trust Clinical Research Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, and Birmingham City Hospital.
- 56th
in the world for Medicine
QS World Rankings 2026
- Top 2
We’re consistently one of the top UK universities targeted by leading graduate employers
High Fliers Report, The Graduate Market 2026
- Expertise
Learn from world-leading neuroscientists, researchers and clinical experts
Why study an MRes in Biomedical Research?
By choosing an MRes, you'll access training in essential research skills on our research skills module. This will help prepare you for a research career in your chosen biomedical discipline or for work in the life sciences industry.
You'll develop your understanding of:
- Scientific writing
- Data interpretation and analysis
- How to critically analyse literature
- Delivering presentations
- Key experimental techniques used across biomedical research
You'll then use the knowledge and skills you develop during the MRes to inform your research project.
The Birmingham Doctoral Programme
The Birmingham Doctoral Programme is a structured research experience co-ordinated by the University Doctoral School. It offers world-class supervision, a tailored development framework, and real-world engagement opportunities that prepare you to flourish, whatever your future holds.
Course delivery
This programme is available full-time. You’ll learn from world-leading academics and researchers at a top 100 UK university. From the outset we’ll challenge and encourage you to become an independent and self-motivated learner.
This course consists of two compulsory taught modules and a research project.
- Taught modules – provide you with knowledge in all aspects of the field and introduces the topics and research questions your projects will be based on.
- Research project - this is an eight-month laboratory-based research project. You'll be supported by regular tutorials.
- Assessment – taught modules are assessed using a mixture of essays, exams and presentations. The research project is assessed through the submission of a Thesis which will be examined by an internal and external examiner.
How will you learn?
Academic-led lectures will outline topics to prepare you to undertake guided independent learning. You'll apply this knowledge to cutting-edge research through practical and demonstration sessions.
There are also formative opportunities that will help you prepare for the module assignments.
Module information
The course comprises 60 credits of taught modules. There is also a 120 credit laboratory based research project.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
Core modules
2027/28 session
The following must be taken:
| Module title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Research Skills | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Neuropharmacology | 40 | Semester 1 |
Teaching staff
Course leads
Dr Zsuzsanna Nagy
Senior Lecturer
Staff profile for Dr Zsuzsa Nagy, Senior Lecturer, Neurotrauma Group, Department of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medicine and Health, the University of Birmingham.
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours degree
You should have, or expect to obtain a 2:1 Honours degree in Biomedical Science, Biology, Biochemistry or other relevant science subject. Equivalent qualifications and work experience will also be considered alongside University regulations.
International entry requirements
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL iBT taken before January 2026: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
- TOEFL iBT taken from January 2026: 4.5 Overall with no less than 4.5 in any 2 skills and 4 in the other two skills
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill
English presessional programmes
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, supervision, assessment and includes membership to the Guild of Students.
- £14,220
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2027 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Tuition fee deposits for international students
International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.
Postgraduate Masters loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent). If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we offer a range of scholarships and funding opportunities. We also offer advice and guidance on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
As part of your application you will be asked to submit a research proposal.
However for this MRes course you will select your research projects during the first term.
Please use the research proposal section to tell us about your research interests in Neuropharmacology and Neuroscience and how your interests align with our research specialisms.
- 27 August 2027
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
How to apply to our taught courses
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
Ask us a question
Contact our subject team if you have a question about studying Biomedical Research.
Career opportunities
Completing the programme offers numerous benefits for your future career prospects. Graduates of our MRes Biomedical Research: Neuropharmacology are well-prepared for further research at PhD level. Additionally, they pursue graduate medicine courses and roles such as scientific and medical writing and hospital-based laboratory work.
Your careers toolkit
Gain skills, confidence and experiences ready for the world of work with your dedicated careers toolkit. With Careers Network, your dedicated careers service, and the variety of opportunities available at Birmingham, you can build your own toolkit of skills and experiences to get you ready for an ever-changing world after graduation.
Your careers toolkit connects you with the opportunities, support and experiences across the university, including:
- Careers support services and Careers Network
- Work experience and placements
- Enterprise and entrepreneurship
- Alumni and employer connections
- Global opportunities and life experience
- Careers in the curriculum
We are consistently one of the top universities targeted by graduate employers
We are one of the most consistently targeted UK universities by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2026). Read more about the achievements of our alumni and the way their university experience shaped their journey.
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Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Birmingham: a city built for students
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
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