Master of Science in Cognitive Science
Interdisciplinary programme at Ruhr-Universität Bochum exploring cognitive phenomena through philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, and AI.
Best for:Best for students with a Bachelor’s in psychology, philosophy, neuroscience, or related fields seeking a rigorous, interdisciplinary exploration of cognitive processes.
Overview
The Master of Science in Cognitive Science at Ruhr-Universität Bochum offers a two-year interdisciplinary programme blending philosophy, psychology, neural computation, psychiatry, and neurosciences. Students explore core questions about learning, memory, perception, action, emotions, and neural processes through empirical and theoretical approaches. The curriculum combines foundational modules in philosophical theory, behavioural neuroscience, computational modelling, and experimental psychology, with specialised focus areas in social cognition, learning and memory, perception and action, and language/logic. Research experience is integrated through mandatory internships and thesis work, fostering interdisciplinary problem-solving in cognitive science.
What you'll do
- Develop a deep understanding of cognitive phenomena through interdisciplinary modules in philosophy, psychology, and neuroscience.
- Conduct empirical research using behavioural experiments, neuroimaging, and computational modelling techniques.
- Participate in interdisciplinary seminars and workshops combining theoretical and applied approaches to cognitive science.
- Complete a mandatory internship in a research group, institution, or company to gain hands-on experience.
- Write and defend a Master’s thesis based on original research in a chosen focus area.
- Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration across departments, including philosophy, psychology, and neural computation.
- Attend international conferences, summer schools, or study abroad units to broaden academic and cultural perspectives.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Cognitive Science, Psychology, Philosophy (with strong focus on analytic philosophy, philosophy of mind, epistemology, or philosophy of science), Neuroscience, Computer Science, Linguistics, Mathematics, or Biology (with focus on neurobiology or bioinformatics). Minimum 180 ECTS credits required.
Language: English; B2 level (e.g., UNIcert® II, TOEFL iBT 85, IELTS Academic 6.5, or equivalent).
Instruction: English (with optional German-language courses available).
- Proficiency in academic research methods, including philosophical theory formation, behavioural experiments, and statistical analysis.
- Basic programming skills (e.g., introductory programming knowledge).
- Ability to conduct independent research and write academic papers.
- Fluency in English (B2 level) for coursework and thesis.
- Completion of at least 60 ECTS in a relevant subject and 15 ECTS in a second relevant subject from the specified list.
- No German language skills required.
- Applicants from all countries eligible.
- Application deadline: 15 July for all countries.
- No age restrictions.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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- Intake
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How to apply
Deadline: 2024-07-15
Applicants must submit their application through the university’s online portal (HIO). Required documents include a completed application form, proof of B2 English proficiency, academic transcripts, a form detailing fulfilment of academic admission requirements, and a CV. Additional materials may be requested depending on the applicant’s background.
- Completed application form
- Proof of B2 English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, UNIcert®)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificate
- Form: Overview of fulfilment of academic admission requirements
- CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Letter of motivation (if required)
Contact
Cognitive Science Programme Office· Admissions Contact
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