Applied Neuroscience
Overview
Where brain science meets real-world impact
Neuroscience doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Its greatest challenges and opportunities lie at the intersection of psychology, mental health, and everyday human behaviour.
Most neurological and psychiatric conditions involve both brain and behaviour, and real-world solutions increasingly rely on interdisciplinary thinking that blends neuroscience with psychological insight. That’s why our Applied Neuroscience MSc places a strong focus on understanding the brain in context — exploring how neural mechanisms shape cognition and emotion, and how you can apply this knowledge to improve lives.
- Bridge the gap: Explore how neuroscience is applied across sectors and why psychological science and mental health are at the heart of these applications.
- Learn from the best: Study with the world-renowned Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Europe’s largest centre for neuroscience and mental health research.
- Access frontline expertise: Connect with leading researchers, clinicians and educators who are actively shaping global policy, prevention, and treatment.
- Join a top institution: Earn your degree from one of the top 10 universities in the UK (Times Higher Education, 2026).
- Study on your terms: Take advantage of six annual entry points to begin your studies when it’s convenient for you.
Key highlights
Top 1% of citations on psychiatry and mental health
2nd in the world for Psychology and Psychiatry
Top 10 UK university in the world
Why study Applied Neuroscience?
Neuroscience is fast becoming a dominant field within psychology. This innovative, multidisciplinary programme gives you the opportunity to develop specific interests in the applied neuroscience areas of psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, neuroimaging and how neuroscience interacts with society.
From the research lab to marketing and games design – learn about the applications of neuroscience in real-world settings and understand the mechanisms and treatments of various diseases of the brain and nervous system.
Interested in this programme?
Meet your programme directors
Dr Anja Harrison
Dr Agnes Kepa
Who is this course for?
Our Applied Neuroscience course will provide transferable skills and knowledge to benefit several career paths. It can expand career opportunities within clinical psychology or offer the chance for further study at PHD level.
There is no requirement for you to join us from a science background as the fundamental modules will provide you with the knowledge needed to progress on this course.
What will you learn?
The application of neuroscience will deepen your understanding of how the nervous system serves to drive our every thought, sensation and emotion.
There will be opportunities for you to develop specific interests in the applied neuroscience areas of psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, neuroimaging and how neuroscience can impact society.
You will learn about the latest, cutting-edge research being carried out by the IoPPN. This research has led to the creation of much-needed therapies for some of the most severe mental disorders, and it has impacted how governments around the world think about mental illness.
Teaching and assessment
Our teaching makes complex ideas accessible, engaging, and relevant to real-world practice. You’ll learn through interactive content like case studies, research-led materials, and opportunities to apply theory to real scenarios.
Live sessions
Regular live sessions enrich your studies with:
- Assessment support workshops
- Lectures expanding on core content
- Practical skills training
- Dedicated support sessions
You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with the programme leadership, join whole-programme get-togethers such as journal clubs, and participate in university-wide events, ensuring you stay supported and part of a vibrant academic community.
Formative feedback
We offer formative feedback on exams and coursework to help you:
- Check progress before final assessments
- Identify strengths and address gaps
- Build confidence and deepen understanding
This feedback fosters critical thinking, effective study strategies, and improved academic performance.
Assessments
Our inclusive, skills-focused assessments go beyond traditional exams. You’ll work on tasks like:
- Research proposals
- Policy briefs
- Narrated presentations
- Lay summaries and evidence appraisals
These assessments develop transferable skills, cater to diverse learning styles, and prepare you for real-world challenges.
Throughout your academic journey, you’ll grow as a critical thinker and applied practitioner, ready to excel academically and professionally.
Why online?
Designed specifically for an online audience, this course uses a range of activities to support learning, including discussion forums, online reading and interactive lectures. The flexible nature of the course allows you to study part-time, alongside your career and life commitments.
Our online students are based around the world, each ready to bring their own unique experiences and perspectives to your online discussions. You’ll also be able to make use of King’s online services, including the careers service, the online library and wellness/disability services.
What makes IoPPN programmes special?
Online programmes from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience go beyond lectures and assessments, immersing students in a global, supportive, and intellectually curious community.
Study with peers worldwide, collaborate with leading academics, and gain the confidence to apply neuroscience and psychology in real-world contexts.
What sets us apart is the opportunity to go beyond the curriculum. Connect with fellow students, launch projects, and build experiences that enhance your CV and career. Opportunities include:
- Hands-on research experience: Work on projects and gain practical skills. Hear from a graduate who continued as a researcher with the IOPPN.
- Collaboration with peers and academics: Build networks and share knowledge.
- Alumni mentoring: Learn from those who’ve walked the path before you.
- Publishing platforms: Showcase your skills and publish lay summaries.
- Forums for debate and critical thinking: Challenge ideas and sharpen your perspective.
Here, your ideas matter, your voice is heard, and your learning journey is yours to shape.
Your career
This course will expand your career prospects in clinical neuroscience, areas of mental health, psychology or related research areas. Former students have excelled in careers with NHS Trusts and Hospitals, various universities, child and adolescent mental health services and the Department of Health.
This course can enrich your career options with roles such as a Lab Technician, Researcher, Healthcare Assistant, Lecturer, Counsellor or Mental Health Worker.
Entry requirements
Fees
Our Applied Neuroscience programme allows you to pay per module as you progress through the course.
- MSc: 12 modules
- PG Dip: 8 modules
2025/26 academic year fees
Fee per module: £1,823
Future fee adjustments
Tuition fees may be subject to an annual increase (capped at 7%) each academic year in line with King’s College London’s terms and conditions.
Each increase comes into effect for the September teaching period each year. From September 2026 the module fee will be £1,913.
Depending on your country of residence, you may also have to pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) in addition to your tuition fees. Please find further information here.
Application deadlines
The application deadline for the next intake (May) is 14 April 2026.
There are six intakes per year: January, March, May, June, September and October.
For all application deadlines, click the ‘Get programme details’ button on this page, complete the form, and an Enrolment Advisor will be in touch to provide more information.
“We designed the programme to help students become completely independent and to set them up with the skills to navigate what they’ve learnt outside of a university environment. We want to ensure you graduate with transferable skills and a breadth of knowledge.”
Dr Anja Harrison (Programme Director)