Why study at the BMRI

In 2003, The University of Sydney took an important step towards harnessing the power of the revolution in brain and mind science research by establishing a unique institute devoted to the investigation and treatment of diseases of the brain and mind. The Brain & Mind Research Institute (BMRI) is the only centre of its kind in the world. It brings together patients, support groups and front-line carers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, GPs and other specialist medical practitioners, with a team of scientists working in neurosciences and brain research. These clinicians and neuroscientists are located together in an environment that promotes synergy of effort and sharing of ideas.

The BMRI is a centre for discovery, innovation and integrative research strategies, clinical product development and actions that translate research into improved treatment and disease prevention strategies. The Postgraduate Program builds on existing undergraduate offerings of the University with studies that cut across boundaries between traditional subject areas. The BMRI postgraduate courses contribute to the University’s undergraduate strengths in physiology, psychology, molecular and microbial biosciences and pharmacology.

The Postgraduate Program is currently open to applications for the Doctor of Philosophy or Master of Philosophy research courses. We provide the following Postgraduate coursework degrees: the Graduate Certificate in Brain and Mind Sciences, the Graduate Diploma in Brain and Mind Sciences, the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences, and the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry. The courses provides focused education and training for the next generation of science, medical, nursing, psychiatry and psychology workforces to better meet the needs of those suffering from disorders of the brain and mind.

The courses are consistent with the Rudd government health reform agenda particularly in relation to workforce development to improve capacity and capability in preventive health. The courses address the national need for improved specialised mental health workforce training, providing onsite education and supervision for local students along with online modular learning and remote access to lectures and symposia for distance education. The BMRI leads a number of research and clinical initiatives in the wider community which will allow students valuable clinical placement experience.

Students benefit from dynamic collaborations with other higher education providers such as with the University of Melbourne in 'headspace: the national youth mental health foundation' and The Australian National University’s in joint e-health projects. In addition, the BMRI has long term partnerships with local government networks as well as numerous non-government organisations within the community locally and interstate such as with Inspire Foundation in its evaluation of online programs in youth mental health; Lifeblood, a partner in the development of educational resources and general practitioner training; and a number of commercial and industry partners, for example in the operation of radiological services.