Universidade Católica Portuguesa launches first Neuroscience bachelor programme in Portugal
The Faculty of Health Sciences and Nursing of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, in association with Católica Medical School, will launch the first Bachelor's Degree in Systems Neuroscience and Cognition in Portugal, in September 2025.
The application of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to areas such as Health, Economics, Marketing or data analysis, the development of brain-machine interfaces, the study of biofeedback and innovative technologies to improve the quality of life and mental health will be some of the career opportunities of this new course.
Other possibilities include the research and development of drugs and therapies to treat neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, or even mental health problems such as depression and schizophrenia. It will also be the right course for anyone who wants to do research into ageing or the study of perception, cognition and emotions.
This programme, which places the country at the forefront of neuroscience education, is inspired by the best international programmes and will be taught entirely in English. It is also pioneering in that it integrates, in a first cycle, solid training in biological and cognitive neurosciences, with a strong focus on data science and computational neuroscience.
A robust education will be ensured, based on fundamental knowledge, complemented by solid analytical skills. For example, subjects such as ‘Cell Biology and Genetics’ and ‘Neuroscience of Perception and Action’ reveal the structure and functioning of the nervous system, allowing you to understand everything from cellular mechanisms to sensory and cognitive processes.
On the other hand, ‘Computational Neuroscience’ and ‘Signal Acquisition and Imaging of the Nervous System’ allow for the analysis and modelling of data from neurons and various systems. 'Social and Affective Neuroscience’ and “Evolution, Biology and Behaviour” explore how the brain and behaviour are influenced by social processes and how behavioural adaptations are the key to survival.
Through this interdisciplinary training, students will have the opportunity to explore the link between the biological reality of the brain and its computational analysis and translation. They will be able to analyse large volumes of data, apply algorithms to better understand how the brain works and develop the analytical and critical thinking that is essential for scientific research.
With this new programme, Universidade Católica Portuguesa reinforces its commitment to innovation and academic excellence, preparing leaders in Neuroscience to face the scientific and technological challenges of the future.