Are all neuroscience degrees the same? A comparison of undergraduate neuroscience degrees across the United Kingdom.

Abstract

Considering the broad scope covered by the field of neuroscience, this study compares neuroscience undergraduate degree programmes across the United Kingdom, with a focus on the distribution of core and optional neuroscience-specific modules. Data from 13 universities were analysed; this revealed significant variation in the proportion of NS module credits acquired by graduation, ranging from 28% to 100% across institutions. The findings highlight particularly low core NS content in Year 1, potentially affecting informed choice of subsequent modules. The observed flexibility in module selection throughout a neuroscience undergraduate degree is a promising opportunity for students to explore their interdisciplinary interests. However, in response to the high variability in NS core and total credits demonstrated by this research, this study calls for further discussion on establishing an accreditation framework to ensure consistency in neuroscience undergraduate degrees across the United Kingdom.