Integrative Neuroscience

The Master of Science in Integrative Neuroscience at the University of Magdeburg offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive approach to understanding the complex mechanisms of the nervous system. This program is designed for students who are interested in exploring the biological, psychological, and computational aspects of neural processes and their integration within the brain and nervous system. Throughout the course of study, students will engage with a broad spectrum of topics, including neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, molecular neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, and neuroinformatics, enabling them to develop a well-rounded understanding of how neural systems operate at multiple levels.

The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, offering laboratory work, research projects, and seminars led by experienced faculty members. This blend ensures that graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, or further academic pursuits. The curriculum emphasizes innovation and application, encouraging students to participate in cutting-edge research and to develop new methods for analyzing and interpreting neural data. Students will gain proficiency in various research techniques such as neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and computational modeling, equipping them with versatile skills highly valued in the scientific community.

Moreover, the program fosters an international and collaborative learning environment, providing opportunities for networking and exchange with scholars worldwide. Students will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities at the university’s neuroscience research centers and have access to a diverse range of specialized courses tailored to their interests within the broad field of neuroscience. The integration of theoretical concepts with practical research projects ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also capable of independent scientific work. Upon completion, students will be qualified to pursue careers in academic research, clinical settings, or industry, contributing to advancements in neuroscience and improving the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders. The Master’s program in Integrative Neuroscience at the University of Magdeburg prepares students to become innovative scientists and proactive contributors to the future of neuroscience.

Educational organisation

The first two semesters provide a broad foundation in molecular, cellular, systems, and theoretical neuroscience. In addition to basic courses, which are required, students may choose to take part in tutorials designed to fill any gaps in their biology, physics, or mathematics background.

Basic courses required in the first semester: Cellular Neurophysiology (lecture and lab six credits), Basic Molecular and Cell Biology (lecture three credits), Comparative and Integrative Neuroanatomy (lecture and lab six credits), Neuroethology (lecture three credits), Theoretical Neuroscience I (lecture three credits), Mathematical Foundations (lecture three credits), Lab Rotation (four credits). Optional courses in the first semester (at least one must be taken): Basic Molecular and Cell Biology (tutorial two credits), Theoretical Neuroscience I (tutorial two credits), Mathematical Foundations (tutorial two credits), Journal Club (student-led seminar two credits)

Basic courses required in the second semester: Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology (lecture and lab six credits), Development and Plasticity (lecture and lab six credits), Systems Neurophysiology (lecture three credits), Learning and Memory (lecture three credits), Theoretical Neuroscience II (lecture three credits), Biological Statistics (lecture three credits), Lab Rotation (four credits). Optional courses in the second semester (at least one must be taken): Systems Neurophysiology (lab two credits), Theoretical Neuroscience II (tutorial two credits), Biological Statistics (tutorial two credits), Journal Club (student-led seminar two credits).

In the third semester, more advanced courses provide further training in areas the student is considering for specialisation. Basic courses required in the third semester: Neurogenetics (lecture and lab four credits), Neuroimmunology, -endocrinology (lecture and lab four credits), Neural Signalling (lecture and lab four credits), Cognitive Neurobiology (lecture four credits), Psychopharmacology (lecture four credits), Macroimaging (lecture and lab four credits), Microimaging (lecture and lab four credits), Spiking Networks (lecture and lab four credits), Clinical Neuroscience (lecture four credits), Scientific Ethics (two credits), Lab Rotation III (four credits). Laboratory rotations are an important part of the programme. All students carry out three laboratory rotations of four weeks duration over the first three semesters. This exposes students to different approaches to neuroscience research and helps students in choosing an appropriate laboratory for their thesis work.

In the fourth semester, students who do not wish to pursue doctoral studies will select a topic and adviser for their Master's thesis. Their Master's thesis research will occupy most of the fourth (and possibly the fifth) semester.

After the third semester, students who pass a "qualifying examination" may transfer to the doctoral programme, which will consist of doctoral thesis research, special topics courses, and additional coaching in professional skills.

A weekly journal club provides an opportunity for students to present and discuss current
research in integrative neuroscience. The biweekly neurocolloquium features internationally renowned guest speakers in all areas of neuroscience. Doctoral students are required to attend both journal club and neurocolloquium regularly.

An annual weekend retreat lets doctoral students to meet neuroscience faculty and staff in an informal setting. Whenever possible, the retreat is organised jointly with another European PhD programme in neuroscience. Approx. one year after beginning their thesis research, doctoral students are required to pass a "candidacy examination". In this examination, each student presents his or her research project to a committee of three faculty members. This creates an opportunity to discuss problems and difficulties of the thesis project, to solicit advice and suggestions, and to plan remedial action.

Forms of assessment

Written and oral examinations
Assignments
Experimental work
Presentations
Master's thesis with colloquium (28 credit points)

Language requirements

Proof of English proficiency (only non-native speakers of English)
Several organisations offer tests of English proficiency:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): minimum requirements are 79 points (Internet-based), 213 points (computer-based), 550 points (paper-based)
IELTS (International English Language Testing System): at least 6.5 points
Cambridge Proficiency in English, grade C (ESOL),
UniCert III or UniCert IV

Academic requirements

Because of the interdisciplinary nature of modern neuroscience, our students have diverse backgrounds in physical and/or biological sciences. Accordingly, a BSc degree in a relevant field (physics, biology, medicine, mathematics, and others) from an internationally recognised university is required for admission. Students with other degrees and with a sufficient number of courses in biology, physics, inorganic and organic chemistry, and calculus may be considered on an individual basis.

Enrolment fees

Currently 94.50 EUR per semester
The semester fee covers services offered by the "Studentenwerk" (Student Union) and the student representatives. Enrolled students receive a semester ticket for free use of public transport, student discounts in the campus cafeteria, etc.

Costs of living

A minimum of 700 EUR per month must be budgeted for accommodation, costs of living, health insurance, books, and miscellaneous expenses.

Job opportunities

Do not plan to combine studies with an additional job. The course schedule will demand all your time and effort!

Funding opportunities within the university

Scholarships cannot be provided for new students. The university provides a limited number of excellence scholarships. Eligible candidates are students in advanced semesters who clearly show above-average results.
http://www.studentenwerk-magdeburg.de/en/finances/

Arrival support

Before arrival, a welcome package with relevant information will be sent to prospective students.
There is a pick-up service if desired. Please inform the student group IKUS (http://www.ikus.ovgu.de) of your arrival in advance. IKUS will meet you at the station in Magdeburg.
Furthermore, there is a "Welcome & Orientation Week" at the beginning of the semester.

Services and support for international students

The International Office and the programme coordinators assist students in any way possible. To integrate new students into the university and into the student community, both the university and the faculty offer a "Welcome & Orientation Week" right before studies start in October. The university offers German language courses and lots of social and cultural events organised by the IKUS or by other student initiatives at the faculty or on campus.

Accommodation

The "Studentenwerk" (Student Union) Magdeburg manages the on-campus halls of residence (mostly one- to four-room apartments). Currently, the monthly rent ranges from 220-350 EUR per room (approx. 12-35 square meters), depending on size and furnishing. Rooms in the halls of residence are limited in number. The accommodation request can be found here: http://www.studentenwerk-magdeburg.de/en/accommodation/accommodation-request/.
The Student Union assists all new students in finding adequate accommodation, either on or off campus. Private accommodation is available on the Magdeburg accommodation market. However, fully furnished units are in relatively short supply.