Cognitive Computing - Master of Science (part-time)

A fundamental transformation of the economy and society is currently taking place as a result of new computer science technologies. At the heart of this change are buzzwords such as "digitalization", "Industry 4.0", "Internet of Things", "robotics", "large language models", "machine learning" and "artificial intelligence". This change enables a multitude of new applications and value chains. For example, complex machines can now run longer and more reliably with predictive maintenance and e-learning systems can simplify access to knowledge in schools, universities and lifelong learning. Smart farming enables ecologically responsible yield increases in the agricultural sector and intelligent and connected assistance systems can support us in road traffic and the healthcare sector. In industry, intelligent systems support production and the associated logistics, and in the financial sector, huge amounts of data and intelligent algorithms are used to recognize correlations and react more quickly.

Studying "Cognitive Computing" makes it possible to contribute to these crucial future technologies: the course bridges the gap between the disciplines of computer science, machine learning and artificial intelligence. The course focuses on the modeling of cognitive human abilities and their implementation in technology and achieves this by closely interlinking the disciplines of artificial intelligence, neuroinformatics, machine learning, computational linguistics and (computer-oriented) neuroscience. By training at this unique interface of relevant disciplines, the part-time Master's degree course in Cognitive Computing enables its graduates to apply their acquired skills to the development of innovative intelligent systems and services.

In addition to a two-semester study project, in which students gain experience in the design and practical implementation of a research project, usually in collaboration with the company, students on the consecutive Master's course deepen the knowledge and skills they acquired in their Bachelor's degree in courses on artificial intelligence, neuroinformatics and neuro-AI, computational linguistics and (computer-oriented) neuroscience.

Graduates of the part-time Master's degree course in Cognitive Computing gain a broad-based qualification for future high-tech activities in the fields of digitalization, machine learning and artificial intelligence. Especially for people who want to actively shape the digital transformation in their company, this program represents a tailor-made qualification in terms of lifelong learning and continuous professional development.

A qualified degree in a suitable Bachelor's degree course is required. Examples of suitable degree programs include (business) informatics, artificial intelligence, cognitive science, (computer) linguistics, mathematics, natural sciences or engineering. Good knowledge of English must also be demonstrated. Fees of € 5,000 per semester are payable for the course. Further information can be found in the  admission regulations.

As a rule, the part-time degree course in Cognitive Computing is offered in cooperation with a company that employs the student. The cooperating company pays the fees and gives the student partial leave of absence for the course. Almost half of the credit points (study project, thesis) can be earned through cooperation between the lecturers at the Institute of Cognitive Science and the company that employs the student.

The course is primarily aimed at companies for which a significant increase in productivity can be achieved through digitalization, artificial intelligence and machine learning, such as ICT companies (especially software companies), the automotive industry, mechanical engineering or the electrical industry. Of course, the offer is not limited to such industries and includes all areas that want to use intelligent systems or large amounts of data to optimize or open up value-added processes.

This subject is admission-free.

Fees of € 5,000 per semester are due for the "Cognitive Computing" course, which are usually paid by the company that employs the student.

In addition, semester fees are payable for studying at Osnabrück University. Depending on how much of your so-called study credit (standard period of study plus tolerance semester) you have to pay long-term study fees. You can find detailed information on this under  Costs of studying.

The degree program is accredited by the Agency for Quality Assurance through Accreditation of Study Programs  (AQAS).