Neuroscience & Psychology

Neuroscience and psychology together form one of the most intellectually ambitious combinations in the biological sciences, addressing the fundamental questions of how the brain works and how mental life, cognition, emotion, and behaviour arise from neural processes. Neuroscience approaches the brain as a biological organ, studying its structure at cellular, circuit, and systems levels and examining how it gives rise to perception, movement, memory, and consciousness. Psychology investigates mind and behaviour through empirical methods, asking how people think, feel, and act, how mental processes go wrong, and how they can be supported or restored.

Studying both simultaneously gives you a richer understanding of each than either alone provides.

At King's College London this three-year full-time programme is offered by the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, one of the leading centres for mental health and neuroscience research in Europe. The programme emphasises research-led teaching, meaning you will be learning from academics actively engaged in investigating the brain, mental health conditions, and the relationship between neural and psychological processes. You will develop knowledge of brain anatomy and physiology, neuropharmacology, cognitive and clinical psychology, research methods, and the neuroscience of major mental health conditions.

The state-of-the-art facilities at King's provide exceptional resources for both laboratory-based neuroscience and psychological research.

Graduates of neuroscience and psychology programmes are well prepared for a wide range of careers. Clinical, research, and industry paths in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and the growing field of mental health technology are among the most direct destinations. For those wishing to practise as clinical psychologists, further postgraduate training is required.

Many graduates continue to research-focused postgraduate study at master's or doctoral level in neuroscience, psychology, psychiatry, or cognitive science. Others move into science communication, healthcare policy, education, or roles in the technology sector where understanding of cognition and brain function is an increasingly sought-after perspective.