Ageing and Dementia Studies

Why choose this course?

Ageing and dementia are critical areas of study and healthcare, addressing the complex needs of an increasingly ageing global population. There are more than 800,000 people with dementia in the UK and 44 million worldwide, posing a major challenge for treatment and care.

The Ageing and Dementia Course is aimed at a diverse group of professionals and students who are interested in gaining advanced knowledge and skills in this critical field. The programme is particularly suited for:

1. Healthcare Professionals

• Doctors: General practitioners, neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists who wish to specialise in the care of older adults and those with dementia.
• Nurses: Those working in memory clinics, geriatrics, neurology and community health who want to advance their expertise in dementia care.
• Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, and Speech Therapists: Professionals aiming to enhance their skills in managing age-related conditions and dementia.

2. Medical Graduates in Related Fields

• Recent graduates with degrees in medicine, nursing, psychology, biology, social work, or related disciplines who are looking to specialise further.

3. Psychologists and Psychiatrists

• Professionals focusing on mental health who are interested in specialising in the psychological aspects of ageing and dementia.

4. Researchers and Academics

• Those pursuing research in gerontology, neurology, or public health, aiming to contribute to the scientific understanding of ageing and dementia.

5. Pharmacists and Pharmacologists

• Professionals interested in the pharmacological treatment of dementia and age-related diseases

6. Public Health Professionals and Policy Makers

• Individuals involved in developing health policies and programs for ageing populations and dementia care.

7. Social Workers and Care Home Managers

• Individuals involved in the social care sector who want to improve their understanding of dementia and ageing to provide better support and services.

8. Family Caregivers and Advocates

• Although less common, some programmes may also appeal to family caregivers or advocates who wish to gain a deeper understanding of dementia and ageing to better support their loved ones and communities.

The MSc in Ageing and Dementia programme is designed to provide the knowledge, skills, and qualifications needed to excel in medical and research careers and make a significant impact in the field of ageing and dementia.

The course comprises a unique set of educational initiatives designed to enable healthcare professionals and researchers to better understand the ageing process and aetiology of dementia, as well as its clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment. The course also offers competency skills to improve the quality of life for people with dementia by building expertise in generating and delivering better care. It provides a comprehensive and holistic theoretical and practical framework for understanding the ageing process and dementia, enabling a broad understanding of the impact of ageing and dementia on the individual and society. Clinical knowledge is blended with developing skills in communication for health and social care, research and leadership learning.

Modules

PGCert

All three modules from the following clinical module list OR two modules from the clinical module list plus one module from the PGDip professional module list:

• Frontiers in Ageing and Dementia (20 credits) One full week in October
• Assessment and Treatment of Dementia (20 credits) One full week in February
• Psychological and Social Perspectives of Ageing and Dementia (20 credits) One full week in June

PGDip

All three clinical modules PLUS three modules from the following clinical and professional module options:

• Frailty and Elderly Medicine (20 credits)
• Research Methods and Critical Appraisal (20 credits)
• Communication, Learning and Teaching in Health and Social Care (20 credits)
• Leadership and Change Management in Clinical Services (20 credits)

OR

• Quality, Safety and Service Improvement in Clinical Services (20 credits)

MSc

• PGCert and PGDip modules

PLUS

• Dissertation (60 credits)

Why BSMS?

An MSc in Ageing and Dementia at Brighton and Sussex Medical School offers:

1. Expert Faculty and Innovative Research
   BSMS boasts a distinguished faculty with extensive expertise in ageing, dementia and related fields. Students benefit from learning directly from leading researchers and healthcare practitioners who are at the forefront of innovation and discovery. This access to cutting-edge research and thought leadership enriches the academic experience and provides insights into the latest advancements in ageing, dementia care and gerontology.
2. Comprehensive and Multidisciplinary Curriculum
   The MSc programme offers a robust and interdisciplinary curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including the biological, psychological, social, and ethical aspects of ageing and dementia. This comprehensive approach ensures that students gain a holistic understanding of the subject, equipping them with the knowledge needed to address complex challenges in real-world settings.
3. State-of-the-Art Facilities
   BSMS provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced neuroanatomy laboratories, simulation, and neuroimaging centres, as well as clinical training environments. These resources enable students to engage in hands-on learning and practical training, which are essential for developing clinical skills and conducting impactful research.
4. Strong Clinical and Research Partnerships
   BSMS has established strong partnerships with local hospitals, healthcare providers, research institutions and community organisations. We are partnered with the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration Kent, Surrey & Sussex (ARC KSS) applied health & care research. These collaborations offer students unique opportunities for clinical placements, internships and research projects, enhancing their practical experience and professional network.
5. Focus on Career Development
   The MSc programme at BSMS places a strong emphasis on career development, offering personalised support and guidance to help students achieve their professional goals. This includes career advice, workshops, networking events and connections with clinical, pharmaceutical and industry partners. Graduates are well prepared to pursue careers in healthcare, academia, research, policymaking and beyond.
6. Supportive Learning Environment
   BSMS is known for its supportive and inclusive learning environment, which fosters collaboration, mentorship, and personal growth. Small class sizes and a close-knit academic community ensure that students receive individual attention and support from faculty and peers.
7. Reputation and Accreditation
   BSMS is a highly regarded institution within the UK and internationally, known for its excellence in medical education and research. An MSc from BSMS in partnership with Brighton and Sussex universities is a prestigious qualification that is recognised and respected by employers and academic institutions worldwide.
8. Location and Campus Life
   Located in the vibrant and diverse city of Brighton, BSMS offers a stimulating and enriching campus life. Brighton is known for its cultural scene, beautiful coastline and welcoming atmosphere, providing a dynamic environment for both academic and personal growth.

By choosing an MSc in Ageing and Dementia at BSMS, students join a leading institution committed to advancing knowledge and improving care for ageing populations and those affected by dementia. The programme’s blend of academic rigour, practical experience and career support positions graduates for success in this vital and rewarding field.

Fees and funding

The fees listed are the overall costs for full-time courses taken in the academic year 2025/26. Where courses are taken part-time over more than one academic year, fees are usually charged pro-rata for the modules taken during each academic year.  

With effect from 2021/22 onwards, EU nationals starting new postgraduate courses will pay international fees and will not be eligible for student funding from the UK government. However, there are exceptions to this for Irish nationals and EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. For the latest information, please see gov.uk/student-finance. If you do not have settled status in the UK and require a work visa, then you will be fee assessed as Overseas and will therefore be subject to the International fee rate.

Find out more about 2025-26 fees and funding >

Scholarships

All BSMS students on Masters courses accredited jointly by the University of Sussex and the University of Brighton are eligible to apply for University of Sussex postgraduate scholarships in 2025/26. 

Read more about fees and funding >

Bursaries

Available bursaries for applicants working for an NHS organisation within the Kent, Surrey and Sussex region will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. Please contact the Course Leader for further information and to check availability.