The programme is designed to develop Students English language skills and introduce students to essential academic and study skills before travelling to the International Study Centre to begin their academic programme.

The Pre-Masters is a three-term programme that provides the specialist academic and English language preparation students need to succeed as a postgraduate student at Durham University. Once they successfully complete this Pre-Masters programme and achieve the required grades, they can start their chosen Masters degree at Durham University. After completing this pathway, students will transfer to the Master of Science in Cognitive Neuroscience. The MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience is aimed at home and international students who are seeking to build on their undergraduate qualifications to develop their project management skills and theoretical knowledge for a career in research or related disciplines. In addition, the course is aimed at those from closely related science backgrounds, to build up a knowledge and practical experience of cognitive neuroscience and psychology, before embarking on a psychology related career.