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Accessibility & LanguageNeuropharmacology (MSc)
MSc (Neuropharmacology)
College of Science and Engineering, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences- Title of Award
- Master of Science
- Course Code
- MSC-NP
- Average Intake
- 15
- Delivery
- On Campus
- NFQ
- Level 9
- Award Type
- Major
- Next Intake
- September 2025
- Duration
- 1 year, full-time
- ECTS Weighting
- 90
Why Choose This Course?
Course Information
Course Overview
Attempting to find new drug treatments central nervous system (CNS) diseases is a major global priority. This requires a collaboration between pharmaceutical companies, hospitals and academic institutions. It involves:
- The identification of drug targets in the CNS disease state of interest.
- Discovery and preclinical profiling of substances acting on this drug target.
- The clinical evaluation for efficacy and safety.
The Discipline of Pharmacology and Therapeutics has been actively engaged in neuropharmacological research for over 30 years. In 1998, the MSc in Neuropharmacology was introduced to provide students with the skills necessary to develop a career in important area of research.
Programme outcomes include:
- Demonstrating a detailed knowledge of the principles and concepts of neuropharmacology.
- Demonstrating an in-depth knowledge of the recent developments and applications in the field of neuropharmacology.
- Demonstrating a high-skill level in a wide range of laboratory skills for neuropharmacological investigations.
- Communicating experimental findings in neuropharmacology effectively, using a variety of verbal, written and visual means.
- Designing, conducting, analysing and presenting their original laboratory‐based research.
What will I study?
The programme is divided into three trimesters (each of 30 ECTS) in the following manner:
Trimester 1
- Neuroscience
- Central Neurotransmission
- Fundamental Concepts in Pharmacology
- Applied Concepts in Pharmacology
- Experimental Methods in Pharmacology
Trimester 2
- Experimental Neuropharmacology
- Current Topics in Neuropharmacology
- Neuropharmacology & Therapeutics
Trimester 3
- Neuropharmacology Research Project
Core Modules:
- Fundamental Concepts in Pharmacology
- Applied Concepts in Pharmacology
- Neurophysiology
- Central Neurotransmission
- Experimental Methods in Pharmacology
- Experimental Neuropharmacology
- Current Topics in Neuropharmacology
- Neuropharmacology & Therapeutics
Optional Modules may include:
- Pharmacology Thesis
- Physiology Thesis
- Biochemistry Thesis
- Anatomy Thesis
- Psychiatry Thesis
- Introduction to Toxicology
- Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Screening Molecular Libraries
Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.
Glossary of Terms
- Credits
- You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
- Module
- An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
- Optional
- A module you may choose to study.
- Required
- A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
- Semester
- Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year.
Year 1 (90 Credits)
RequiredPM208: Fundamental Concepts in Pharmacology
PM208: Fundamental Concepts in Pharmacology
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
This module introduces students to fundamental pharmacological concepts of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. A combination of lectures, tutorials and workshops will be used.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- describe the main drug targets
- interpret dose response curves for agonists, antagonists, inverse agonists
- calculate molarities, concentrations, volumes required in making solutions
- access and critically analyse and interpret pharmacological data
- describe the processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion for specific drugs
- explain the effects of different routes of administration on absorption of drugs, and effects of food and drug interactions on drug disposition
- derive pharmacokinetic data and use them to predict clinical properties of drugs
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (30%)
- Computer-based Assessment (70%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Pharmacology" by Rang, H.P., Dale, Ritter, Flower & Henderson
Publisher: Churchill Livingstone - "Principles of Pharmacology" by Golan, D.E., et al
- "Lippincott’s Illustrated Reviews Pharmacology" by Harvey, R.A.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPM209: Applied Concepts in Pharmacology
PM209: Applied Concepts in Pharmacology
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
This module introduces students to autonomic pharmacology and drug discovery and development. A combination of lectures, tutorials and workshops will be used.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the process of adrenergic and cholinergic neurotransmission including receptors and transporters.
- Relate drug mechanism of action to autonomic neurotransmission
- Describe how new molecular entities are discovered and developed into drug candidates for human clinical trials
- Summarize the clinical trial process including adverse effects
- Derive dose-response curves for agonists and antagonists in the ANS
- Interpret clinical trial data
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (30%)
- Computer-based Assessment (70%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Pharmacology" by Rang, H.P., Dale, Ritter, Flower & Henderson
Publisher: Churchill Livingstone - "Principles of Pharmacology" by Golan, D.E
- "Lippincott’s Illustrated Reviews Pharmacology" by Harvey, R.A
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredSI209: Neurophysiology
SI209: Neurophysiology
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
The module in Neurophysiology will provide students with a knowledge of the function of the brain and spinal cord. Topics covered will include organisation and function of cell of the central nervous system, motor and somatosensory processing, physiology underlying vision, hearing, sleep, learning, emotion, language, hunger, and thermoregulation. Theoretical learning and understanding of will be aided by laboratory practicals investigating the physiology of vision and hearing.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the principles of somatosensory processing and perception and apply this knowledge to explain acute pain processing
- Describe in detail the processes behind spinal reflexes and central control of movement
- Describe the physiological processes underlying vision, hearing, sleep, learning, emotion, language, hunger, and thermoregulation
- Compare knowledge of the normal CNS function and symptoms associated with pathophysiology
- Examine the practical assessment of the physiology of vision and hearing
- Integrate practical information with theoretical knowledge
Assessments
- Written Assessment (70%)
- Continuous Assessment (15%)
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (15%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Neuroscience" by Purves et al.
Publisher: Sinauer Associates. ebook platform - "Principles of neural science" by Handel, E.R., Schwartz, J.H. & Jessell, T.M.
Publisher: McGraw Hill
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPM5101: Central Neurotransmission
PM5101: Central Neurotransmission
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
This module introduces students to the concepts and chemicals involved in neurotransmission. It also provides students with the basis for pharmacological interventions in disorders of the central nervous system.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the major chemicals involved in neurotransmission
- Explain the process of neurotransmission
- Name targets that are used to intervene pharmacologically in CNS disorders
- Identify targets that could potentially be used for pharmacological interventions in disease states
- Describe the biochemical and cellular consequences of neurotransmission
Assessments
- Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PM5101: "Central Neurotransmission" and is valid from 2024 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPM5102: Experimental Methods in Pharmacology
PM5102: Experimental Methods in Pharmacology
Semester 1 | Credits: 10
A practical-based module that aims to develop laboratory skills in conjunction with data analysis and interpretation using computer software
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Be proficient in lab skills
- Construct graphical representations of data sets
- Interpret experimental data
- Analyse data using the appropriate methods
- Provide rationale for choosing appropriate statistical methods
- Critically evaluate scientific data in the literature
- Create experimental reports based on the analysis of data sets
Assessments
- Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PM5102: "Experimental Methods in Pharmacology" and is valid from 2024 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPM5103: Experimental Neuropharmacology
PM5103: Experimental Neuropharmacology
Semester 2 | Credits: 15
This is a practical-based module with the aim of preparing students for their research project. This module consists of mini-projects in topics relevant to neuropharmacology research
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Observe and record behavioural changes following drug exposure
- Perform experiments to measure changes in molecular events following drug treatment in cells
- Anaylse, present and derive conclusions from scientific data
- Interpret experimental data
Assessments
- Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
- HOWARD OLIVER FEARNHEAD 🖂
- DAVID FINN 🖂
- LINDA HOWARD 🖂
- DECLAN PATRICK MCKERNAN 🖂
- AIDEEN RYAN 🖂
- Miriam Moriarty 🖂
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPM5104: Current Topics in Neuropharmacology
PM5104: Current Topics in Neuropharmacology
Semester 2 | Credits: 10
This is a self-directed assignment-based module that aims to develop students' capabilities in data analysis, interpretation and presentation and to familiarise them with recent advances and controversial topics in the field of neuropharmacology.
Learning Outcomes
- . Evaluate the current efficacy and safety information for a named drug at various stages of its development
- Critically analyse the evidence and synthesise an opinion on a controversial topic in neuropharmacology
- Develop a research proposal and design experiments to address a project title
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PM5104: "Current Topics in Neuropharmacology" and is valid from 2024 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPM5105: Neuropharmacology & Therapeutics
PM5105: Neuropharmacology & Therapeutics
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
This is a self-directed & lecturer supervised module designed to further develop knowledge in drugs acting on the nervous system (e.g. psychiatric disorders, neurological disorders, pain and drugs of abuse) as well novel therapies for the nervous system.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe and critically discuss the role of CNS neurotransmitters in psychiatric and neurological disease and in reward processes
- Relate mechanisms of drug action to management of psychiatric and neurological disorders
- Critically discuss the contribution that modern approaches to technologies for therapeutics have made (or may make in the future) to human health.
Assessments
- Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Pharmacology" by Rang, H.P., Dale, Ritter, Flower & Henderson
Publisher: Churchill Livingstone. - "Principles of Pharmacology" by Golan, D.E
- "Illustrated Reviews Pharmacology" by Harvey, R.A
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalPM517: Pharmacology Thesis
PM517: Pharmacology Thesis
12 months long | Credits: 30
Assessments
- Research (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PM517: "Pharmacology Thesis" and is valid from 2014 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalSI503: Physiology Thesis
SI503: Physiology Thesis
12 months long | Credits: 30
Assessments
- Research (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module SI503: "Physiology Thesis" and is valid from 2014 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalBI503: Biochemistry Thesis
BI503: Biochemistry Thesis
12 months long | Credits: 30
Assessments
- Research (100%)
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalAN508: Anatomy Thesis
AN508: Anatomy Thesis
12 months long | Credits: 30
Assessments
- Research (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module AN508: "Anatomy Thesis" and is valid from 2014 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalSY502: Psychiatry Thesis
SY502: Psychiatry Thesis
12 months long | Credits: 30
Assessments
- Research (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module SY502: "Psychiatry Thesis" and is valid from 2014 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalPM311: Introduction to Toxicology
PM311: Introduction to Toxicology
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
A 5ECTS module developed to provide an introduction to Toxicology to third year science students who have an interest in poisons and a background in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Physiology, Anatomy or Chemistry. The course involves lectures delivered over one semester and is assessed through continuous assessment and a 2 hour written examination at semester's end.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- use the language, terms, and definitions of toxicology
- describe the factors affecting toxic responses
- describe specific mechanisms of toxic action
- apply this knowledge to explain specific examples of target organ toxicity
- describe how toxicity assessed and the challenges of risk assessment
- collect toxicological information and apply toxicological principles to specific classes of toxicant and specific situations
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (40%)
- Computer-based Assessment (60%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Casarett & Doull's Essentials of Toxicology" by n/a
Publisher: McGraw-Hill Professional - "Principles of Biochemical Toxicology" by n/a
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalBI5107: Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology
BI5107: Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
This module provides a concise introduction to key principles and mechanisms in molecular cell biology. It comprises an overview of cell structure and the cell cycle including mitosis and meiosis, a description of the molecular properties of the major classes of biomolecules, an overview of the principles of genetics and evolution, and an introduction to the mechanisms of replication, transcription and translation including gene regulation and epigenetics.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Outline the structure of animal cells and the cell cycle, including mitosis and meiosis
- Describe how the properties of biological macromolecules contribute to cell function
- Summarise the structure of DNA and chromosomes and how this enables genetics and evolution
- Explain the mechanisms of DNA replication, gene transcription and translation
- Describe the biochemical basis of gene regulation, epigenetics and DNA technologies
Assessments
- Written Assessment (50%)
- Continuous Assessment (50%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Campbell Biology, Global Edition" by Lisa A. Urry,Michael L. Cain,Steven A. Wasserman,Peter V. Minorsky,Jane B. Reece,Neil A. Campbell
ISBN: 9781292170435.
Publisher: Pearson
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalPM5114: Screening Molecular Libraries
PM5114: Screening Molecular Libraries
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
The module will provide training in high-throughput and high-content screening technologies to post-graduate students. The course delivers training through a mixture of lectures, practical classes, tutorials, assignments and a training workshop. Students will gain theoretical and practical knowledge of high-throughput and high-content screening and develop proficiency in a range of data analysis techniques. The course will be delivered through the Biomedical Sciences Screening Core Facility at NUI Galway. The facility is fully equipped to deliver all aspects of the course. The course will be open to research MSc students and PhD students in biomedical sciences (College of Science, College of Medicine and other relevant Colleges ) subject to capacity and approval of the Module owner.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the principles and concepts of screening.
- Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the recent developments and applications in the field of screening
- Demonstrate a competency in a wide range laboratory skills relevant to high-throughput and high content screening activity
- Identify the key features important when designing new screens,
- Be able to conduct a screen proficiently and to appropriately analyse and summarise screening data.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (10%)
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (90%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PM5114: "Screening Molecular Libraries" and is valid from 2018 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
- Range of modules: Includes modules in fundamental and applied pharmacology, neuroscience, experimental methods in neuropharmacology, providing both practical and theoretical expertise.
- Master core concepts: Develop a solid foundation in neuropharmacology principles and apply them to real-world contexts.
- Enhance analytical skills: Build the ability to interpret and analyse data using advanced tools and methodologies.
- Strengthen problem-solving abilities: Learn to approach neuropharmacological challenges critically, using both theoretical and practical perspectives.
- Develop professional expertise: Hone the skills required to succeed in diverse roles, including neuropharmacology research in academia and industry, policymaking and consultancy.
The majority of graduates of the programme have entered the workforce either in technical or research roles within hospitals, universities or companies, within or outside Ireland. In addition, approximately one-third have embarked on PhD research following graduation.
1-2 students per cohort will conduct their thesis project at the Radboud University as part of the Bilateral Erasmus+ Programme
Dr. Andrea Kwakowsky
Associate Professor in Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Programme Director MSc in Neuropharmacology
- Miriam Moriarty
- John Kelly
- Eilis Dowd
- David Finn
- Howard Fearnhead
- Aideen Ryan
- Oliver Tracey
- Linda Howard
- Michelle Roche
- Andrew Flaus
How will I learn?
The M.Sc. in Neuropharmacology is delivered across two semesters including an individual research project as a third semester. The programme combines taught modules, practical experience, and independent research.
By the end of the course, learners will be able to:
- Nomenclature & terminology: Define and correctly use discipline-specific terms to explain concepts and annotate data.
- Laboratory skills: Perform core experimental techniques safely and accurately, recording methods and results to reproducible standards.
- Independent thought: Propose justified approaches to problems, troubleshoot procedures, and reflect on outcomes to plan next steps.
- Experimental design: Formulate testable hypotheses and design controlled experiments, including appropriate controls, replicates, and sample sizes.
- Scientific writing: Produce clear, concise reports and figures (abstract, methods, results, discussion) that meet scholarly and ethical standards.
- Statistical analysis: Select suitable statistical tests, carry out analyses, visualize data, and interpret effect sizes and uncertainty.
- Critical analysis: Appraise primary literature and datasets, identifying assumptions, strengths, limitations, and alternative interpretations.
The learning outcomes are aligned with the following postgraduate teaching, learning, and assessment methods:
Teaching & learning activities
- Practical classes (laboratories/workshops): supervised application of core techniques.
- Tutorials: guided problem-solving and feedback.
- Invited expert seminars: sessions led by guest lecturers.
- Small-group work: collaborative inquiry and peer learning.
- Independent study: structured self-directed learning.
- Supervised research: independent scientific investigation.
How Will I Be Assessed?
Your progress will be evaluated through a variety of assessments including:
- Written reports/manuscripts: discipline-standard scientific writing.
- Oral presentations: scholarly communication and defence of work.
- Written examinations: evaluation of knowledge and analysis.
- Oral examinations: critical reasoning and synthesis.
- Problem-based exercises: applied problem solving.
- Research thesis/dissertation: capstone research project.
- Posters presentation.
Course queries:
andrea.kwakowsky@universityofgalway.ie
Programme Director(s):
Dr Andrea Kwakowsky
Associate Professor in Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Programme Director MSc in Neuropharmacology
University of Galway
School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences
E: andrea.kwakowsky@universityofgalway.ie
T: +353 91 493012
Accreditations & Awards
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Entry Requirements and Fees
Minimum Entry Requirements
Successful students will normally hold at least a Second Class Honours Level 8 degree from any of a range of undergraduate disciplines, from Chemistry to Life Science subjects to Psychology. Students are also considered who have a Level 7 degree and three years’ relevant work experience. IELTS score of 6.5 (with not less than 5.5 in any one component).
You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.
Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.
You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.
Closing Dates
For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.
Notes
- You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
- Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.
Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026
| Course Type | Year | EU Tuition | Student Contribution | Non-EU Tuition | Levy | Total Fee | Total EU Fee | Total Non-EU Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masters Full Time | 1 | €8,750 | €28,000 | €140 | €8,890 | €28,140 |
For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.
Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26). You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee. A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.
Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here.
Application Process
Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.
Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for each the following September.
Further Information
Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.
Why University of Galway?
World renowned research led university nestled in the vibrant heart of Galway city on Ireland's scenic West Coast.
Contact the College of Science and Engineering
University of Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland, H91 TK33
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Course Introduction
Neuropharmacology is the study of the effects of drugs on the brain. Research into diseases of the brain (e.g. schizophrenia, depression, Alzheimer’s Disease) and their treatment continues at an unprecedented rate. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to acquire the theoretical and applied knowledge of neuropharmacology that will enable them to begin a career in neuropharmacological research. Attempting to find new drug treatments central nervous system (CNS) diseases is a major global priority.This requires a collaboration between pharmaceutical companies, hospitals and academic institutions.
In 1998, the MSc in Neuropharmacology was introduced to provide students with the skills necessary to develop a career in important area of research.
Neuropharmacology Brochure
