Do you want to understand brain diseases in depth and contribute to the future of healthcare? This course provides you with in-depth knowledge of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's – from mechanisms to treatment – with a focus on the whole, evidence and multidisciplinary collaboration.

About the course

Do you want to deepen your understanding of the two most common neurodegenerative diseases? This course provides you with in-depth knowledge of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease – from disease mechanisms to diagnostics, consequences, and treatments.

You will learn about modern methods such as brain imaging, biomarkers and digital tests, consequences in everyday life, and different treatment options (pharmaceutical, surgery, and rehabilitation). The course highlights different perspectives (the patient, next of kins, and societal).

Through an in-depth assignment, you will be trained in identifying knowledge gaps and formulating relevant research questions with ethical awareness. The course is suitable for those who want to contribute to the future of healthcare with evidence-based knowledge and a holistic perspective.

During the course

The course is taught in English, at a quarter pace, and online with no physical meetings. During the course, you will take part in video lectures, digital seminars and group discussions spread over the course period. The course begins with a couple of general and introductory lectures. The course is based on you as a student being active, i.e. student-active learning methods that include group discussions and seminars. Discussions will take place in small groups and in large groups. Some seminars also include peer feedback. Digital discussion forums will be used to promote peer learning.

After the course

The course provides a solid foundation for understanding and analyzing complex neurodegenerative diseases from multiple perspectives – person to society. By developing the ability to critically review diagnostics, treatment and evidence, including identifying knowledge gaps, you will be equipped to contribute in multidisciplinary contexts where collaboration is crucial.

The course can be a valuable part of a wider academic profile in, for example, neuroscience, rehabilitation, or clinical research. It also trains skills that are central to continued in-depth study at the advanced level, such as formulating research questions, reflecting on ethical aspects and identifying needs for one's own knowledge development. With a holistic perspective on the individual and society, conditions are created for continued learning and development in an area in constant change.

After completing the course, students will be able to:

• Compare and contrast Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease in terms of symptoms, consequences, neuropathology, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and evaluation methods.
• Make relevant comparisons between neurodegenerative diseases and other common diseases, considering their effects on patients, families, and society.
• Identify knowledge gaps in at least one area (such as disease consequences, diagnostics, prognosis, or treatment evaluation) and formulate relevant research questions.
• Critically assess and compare different diagnostic methods, including their strengths and limitations. Reflect on ethical considerations in research and clinical practice, especially for individuals with early or mild cognitive and motor symptoms.
• Identify their own learning needs for continued professional development.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the course, a bachelor's degree is required in one of the main subjects Occupational Therapy, Audiology, Biomedicine, Physiotherapy, Speech and Language Pathology, Medicine, Nursing or Radiography, or an equivalent qualification, as well as English 6.

Application

Note that Lund University students apply through www.antagning.se at the latest by 15 October, 2025. Other EUGLOH students apply through EUGLOH application site, at the latest by 1 November, 2025. Transcripts/degree certificate, Motivation letter and CV needs to be submitted. 

This course provides advanced knowledge of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, with a focus on disease mechanisms, symptoms, diagnostics, prognosis, treatment (including evaluation of treatment), and the consequences of these diseases.

Diagnostic and prognostic methods covered include both clinical approaches, digital tests, brain imaging, and biomarkers. Assessment methods will also consider a multidisciplinary perspective. The latter applies also for the consequencies and symptoms of these diseases. Treatment is addressed from both pharmacological, surgical and non-pharmacological perspectives, such as exercise.

The course includes an advanced assignment. This involves, among other things, identifying knowledge gaps within a specific area, formulating relevant research questions, and considering ethical aspects.

Methodology

The course is delivered at a quarter-time pace and entirely online (3 ECTS credits), with no physical meetings. It includes video lectures, digital seminars, and group discussions spread throughout the course period. The course begins with a couple of overarching and introductory lectures.

Student-centered learning methods are emphasized, including group discussions and seminars. Discussions will take place both in multidisciplinary small groups and in larger groups. Some seminars will also include peer feedback. Digital discussion forums will be used to encourage collaborative learning among students.

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