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This short course is designed for anyone interested in modern MRI-based neuroimaging methods. It is particularly relevant for researchers, healthcare professionals, psychologists, physicists, engineers, computer scientists, and anyone with a curiosity about the brain. Whether you are looking to enhance your expertise or explore how cognitive neuroscientists and physicians investigate brain function, this course offers an engaging and informative learning experience.

This micro-credential is offered as part of ourÌýMSc in Neuroimaging, allowing learners to study this component of the programme independently.Ìý

The ÑÇÖÞÉ«°É MSc in Neuroimaging is one of the most well established programmes dealing with modern neuroimaging in the UK. For more information about the full MSc, visit the webpage here:ÌýMSc Neuroimaging

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Why study this CPD course?

This short course focuses on teaching students the practical steps involved in analysing MRI-based neuroimaging studies. From data processing and analysis to study design and implementation, learners will develop key skills for working with neuroimaging data.
The course will cover:

• Neuroimaging data formats and best practices for data management.
• The General Linear Model (GLM) and its role in neuroimaging analysis.
• Designing effective fMRI studies using knowledge of the GLM.
• Pre-processing and analysing MRI and fMRI data using software such as MATLAB, FSL, SPM, MRS, and DTI packages.
• Reporting and interpreting neuroimaging results to inform research and practice.

A lab-based module, this course provides hands-on experience in data analysis, visualization, and programming, equipping learners with the skills needed to work with neuroimaging data in a research or clinical setting.

How long does this course take to complete?

This short course runs over 12 weeks during Semester 1 of the academic year.

For the 2025/26 academic year, Semester 1 runs from 29th September to 22nd December 2025.
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Assessment

Assessments are designed to encourage continuous skill development and application of knowledge. They include:

• Weekly practical coursework assignments – 50% of the overall grade. These scaffold learning week by week, ensuring steady skill progression.
• Final analysis project – 30% of the overall grade. Students will process and analyse three neuroimaging datasets, applying the techniques learned throughout the course.

Tutor

Professor Paul Mullins

Professor of Neuroimaging and Senior Physicist at the ÑÇÖÞÉ«°É Imaging Centre in the School of Psychology and Sports Science.

My research falls into three broad areas: the use of magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy to investigate basic neurologic and physiologic processes in health and disease; the use of these techniques to measure changes associated with neurotransmission and neural activity in health and disease; and investigating the impacts of physiologic challenges (e.g. hypoxia, concussion, exercise) on the brain.

I also interact with colleagues from the College of Medicine and Health Sciences on MRI study design, data acquisition and processing and the resources available to help with their research questions, my aim is to keep the ÑÇÖÞÉ«°É Imaging Unit a world-class centre for neuroimaging research in North Wales.

What will you study on this course?

Participants will gain hands-on experience in neuroimaging data analysis, covering:

• Understanding modern neuroimaging data formats and best practices for data management.
• Applying the General Linear Model (GLM) to neuroimaging data analysis.
• Designing effective fMRI studies based on a solid understanding of the GLM.
• Pre-processing and analysing MRI and fMRI data using industry-standard software.
• Reporting and interpreting fMRI study results with confidence.

This course provides a strong foundation in neuroimaging analysis, preparing learners to design, conduct, and interpret their own neuroimaging studies.

To be eligible for this course, applicants must have:

• An undergraduate degree (2:1 or higher).

Alternatively, applicants with at least three years of relevant work experience and evidence of recent study or professional development (demonstrating readiness to study at Level 6/7) may also be considered.

If you do not meet the standard academic requirements, please contact the course lead to discuss your eligibility.

How to Apply

Please make sure you read and follow the step-by-step application guide as this will specify which sections of the application form are compulsory for the type of course you want to apply for and save you time.

Please prepare the following information (in a Word document):

• Current employment details;
• Years of experience, and employment history (where relevant)
• Name of staff member and organisation that have approved your funding for this module.

This will speed up the process of completing the application form