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LSC-30118 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2026/27 Last Updated: 16 September 2026

LSC-30118 - Neuropathology
Coordinator: Samaneh - Preferred Ella Maysami Room: HUX-304 Tel: 01782 733671
Lecture Time:
Level: Level 6
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734414

Programme/Approved Electives for 2026/27

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2026/27

In this module, you will learn about the pathophysiology, aetiology, and predisposing factors of a number of common neurological, neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders.
You will study clinical manifestations of neurological disorders, cellular and molecular mechanisms, and advances made in diagnosis, prevention, prediction and treatments of these pathologies.
Problem (or Case) Based learning (PBL/CBL) sessions will enable you to develop transferable skills such as team work, group-based learning, critical thinking, oral and written science communications and problem solving.

Aims
The module aims to provide a detailed critical understanding of the theories and techniques underlying modern research into the aetiology, pathology, underlying mechanisms, prevention and treatment of human neurological disorders.

Intended Learning Outcomes

critically evaluate the pathophysiology, including cellular and molecular mechanisms, of common neurological, neurodegenerative, and neuropsychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, meningitis, hydrocephalus, brain tumours (both benign and malignant), and congenital disorders affecting the nervous system (e.g., Down’s syndrome): 1,2
critically assess research findings and advancements in precision diagnostics, preventative strategies, and therapeutic approaches: 1,2
master case-based learning through engagement in flipped classroom activities, while developing essential academic skills such as concise, evidence-based writing and critical thinking in preparation for short answer questions: 1
refine evidence-based academic writing and critical thinking skills in preparation for integrated, evidence-based academic essays: 2

Study hours

Active learning:
10hr lectures
10hr tutorials
2x1hr technology enhanced workshops to discuss assessment strategies
128 hr independent learning (lecture notes, Panopto recordings, reading list resources, etc)

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Assignment weighted 50%
Real-World Application: Case-Based Learning Questions
Students will critically evaluate a provided neuropathology (real world) case report and independently answer a set of questions (equivalent to approximately 1000 words in total). All relevant ILOs must be covered.

2: Literature Review weighted 50%
Integrated Evidence-Based Academic Essay (1000 words)
Students will receive multiple topic titles midway through the semester and will be required to choose one academic essay from a selection of three to submit by the end of the semester. The essay should reflect on a neuropathological condition discussed throughout the academic semester and incorporate insights from other topics covered in the module. Typical submissions will be approximately 1000 words in length, and all relevant ILOs must be covered. Once the selection period has closed, the chosen title for the academic essay cannot be changed.

The University undertakes a continuous review of its teaching and research provision to ensure programmes are of a high quality and changes may be made to modules where it is necessary and reasonable to do so. Please be aware that minor changes to modules, such as a change to an individual assessment, can occur up until enrolment, although we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes. Details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/legalgovernancecompliance/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/studenttermsconditions/

Last Updated: 16 September 2026