Plasticity and Memory

Program Description: The Master's degree in Plasticity and Memory at Radboud University offers an innovative and comprehensive exploration of the dynamic processes underlying brain function, with a particular focus on how the brain adapts and reorganizes itself throughout life. This program is designed for students interested in understanding the fundamental mechanisms of neural plasticity and the ways in which memory systems operate and evolve. Students will engage in interdisciplinary coursework involving neuroscience, cognitive science, neuropsychology, and molecular biology, providing a well-rounded perspective on brain plasticity and memory function. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical research skills, allowing students to participate in cutting-edge experiments and projects within state-of-the-art laboratories. Throughout the program, students will examine topics such as synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis, learning and memory processes, neurodegenerative diseases, and the impact of environmental factors on brain adaptability. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding individual differences and the biological basis of learning and memory, preparing graduates for careers in research, healthcare, or further academic study. The faculty members are recognized experts in their fields, offering mentorship and guidance to foster academic growth and professional development. Additionally, students have opportunities to collaborate with international research teams and contribute to studies that aim to uncover the mechanisms of brain resilience and recovery. With its strong emphasis on experimental research and theoretical understanding, the Master's program in Plasticity and Memory at Radboud University equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of neuroscience and related disciplines. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in clinical research, neuroinformatics, neuropsychology, and academia, or to pursue further doctoral studies to deepen their expertise. Overall, this program offers a unique chance to study the adaptable and resilient nature of the brain, providing insights into how memories are formed, maintained, and altered, and how this knowledge can be applied to improve mental health and treat neurological disorders.

The Master's programme in Plasticity and Memory at Radboud University is a cutting-edge interdisciplinary course designed to explore the fundamental mechanisms underlying brain plasticity and memory formation. This programme offers students an in-depth understanding of how neural circuits change and adapt in response to experiences, learning, and environmental influences. Emphasizing a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the programme covers a broad range of topics including synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis, neural networks, and the molecular and cellular basis of memory. Students will be engaged in advanced neuroscience research methods, such as electrophysiology, imaging techniques, and behavioral experiments, enabling them to investigate brain function both in laboratory settings and in vivo models.

Throughout the programme, students will analyze the latest scientific literature and participate in innovative projects that address current challenges in understanding brain plasticity and memory disorders. The coursework is complemented by seminars, workshops, and collaborations with leading research institutes, providing a dynamic environment for academic growth and professional development. The curriculum also emphasizes the translational aspect of neuroscience, focusing on how insights into plasticity and memory can inform treatments for neurological and psychiatric conditions. Graduates of this programme will be equipped with the theoretical knowledge and practical expertise necessary for careers in academic research, clinical practice, or biomedical industries. The programme offers a unique opportunity to work with expert faculty members and state-of-the-art facilities, fostering a stimulating environment for aspiring neuroscientists committed to advancing our understanding of brain function.

A completed Bachelor's degree in Linguistics, Physics, Biology, Medicine, Mathematics, Behavioural Sciences, Artificial Intelligence or a related discipline

The graduation date of the last attained Bachelor’s degree relevant for this programme must be within five years of applying to the programme.

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers of English* without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:

• A TOEFL score of >=600 (paper based) or >=100 (internet based)
• An IELTS score of >=7.0
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

Specialisation specific requirements

For the specialisation in Plasticity and Memory, students with a background in psychology, biology, (bio-)medical sciences, or natural sciences can apply. Specifically, we require demonstrable knowledge in the following domains:

1. Biophysics (e.g., Hobbie, R.K. & Roth, B.J., 2015 ‘Intermediate Physics for Medicine and Biology’).
2. Neuroscience (e.g., Kandel, E. & Schwartz, J., 2013 ‘Principles of neural science’ or Purves, D., 2012 ‘Neuroscience’).
3. Cognitive Neuroscience (e.g., Gazzaniga, M. & Ivry, R.B., 2013 ‘Cognitive neuroscience: The biology of the mind’).
4. Experimental design and statistics (e.g., Moore, D.S., McCabe, G.P., & Craig, B.A., 2014, ‘Introduction to the practice of statistics’; or McClave, J.T., & Sincich, T., 2013, ‘Statistics’).

To give you an indication of the content and level of knowledge you need in each of these areas, we have suggested handbooks that meet the level we expect from our candidates. Please note: Students should have at least the level of knowledge indicated above with respect to areas 1 and 2 OR 3 and 4 when they start the programme.

* Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are from Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Master's programme in Plasticity and Memory at Radboud University is an interdisciplinary degree that focuses on understanding the mechanisms underlying brain plasticity and memory processes. The programme aims to equip students with a thorough knowledge of how the brain adapts to experiences and how these changes support learning and memory functions. Students will explore a range of topics including neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, cognitive neuroscience, and experimental psychology, enabling them to understand both typical and atypical brain functions. The curriculum offers a combination of theoretical coursework, practical lab sessions, and research projects that provide hands-on experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing. Emphasis is placed on neurobiological mechanisms, neuroplasticity, and the application of these principles to developmental, aging, and clinical populations. Graduates will be prepared for careers in research, healthcare, or further academic studies. The programme promotes a multidisciplinary approach, often collaborating with researchers from psychology, neuroscience, and medicine, fostering an environment of innovative scientific inquiry. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and advanced research skills, preparing them to contribute to advancements in understanding brain function and plasticity. The programme typically offers opportunities for internships, international exchange, and participation in cutting-edge research projects, ensuring students gain relevant skills for the job market. Radboud University’s state-of-the-art research facilities and strong links with local hospitals and research institutes provide an excellent environment for studying brain plasticity and memory. Upon completion, students will have a comprehensive understanding of neuroplasticity processes and be capable of applying scientific methods to investigate brain functions, making them valuable assets in both academic and applied domains within neuroscience and psychology.