Cognitive Science - Master of Science
The aim of cognitive science is to investigate complex cognitive processes such as attention, thinking, planning, learning, speech and action in biological and artificial systems, to understand cognition comprehensively and to develop and improve artificial intelligence systems.
As an interdisciplinary subject, it combines content and methods from STEM fields such as (neuro)computer science, machine learning, mathematics and neuroscience, neuropsychology, (computer-oriented) linguistics and animal cognition, as well as humanities fields such as philosophy of mind and ethics of artificial intelligence. The research-oriented examination of innovative technologies such as deep learning methods and large language models is the focus of many courses. This broad education, which includes theory as well as practical project work in a team, prepares students optimally for future-oriented professions in which innovative strength, critical thinking and interdisciplinary communication are required in addition to specialist knowledge.
Cognitive science researches cognitive abilities such as perception, thinking, planning, learning, speaking and acting as well as their (neuro-)physiological foundations from an experimental and theoretical perspective. For example, it deals with the explanation of human language and non-verbal behavior, the investigation of perception and motor skills or the development of artificial intelligent systems using modern machine learning methods.
In addition, philosophical questions on cognitive abilities and the ethical handling of artificial intelligence are not neglected. Methodologically, the program covers a field that ranges from mathematical methods and psychological and neuroscientific experiments to computer models of mental processes and philosophical reflection.
Highlights of the study program:
- Thematic diversity and interdisciplinarity
- High degree of flexibility in course selection, personal focus
- Excellent research environment
- Early research experience
- International orientation
- Diverse, committed student body
- Lively "CogSci" community, including alumni
- Versatile cooperation with industry
The Cognitive Science degree program is unique in Germany in its interdisciplinary breadth and flexibility and its early connection to current research. The extensive selection of courses enables students to further develop their individual personal profile. In addition to a sound theoretical and practical education, students also acquire valuable skills that go beyond subject-specific competencies. They gain experience in interdisciplinary project work and learn to solve complex problems in a team, which strengthens their communication skills and enhances their personal profile.
In addition to a two-semester study project, in which students gain experience in the conception and practical implementation of a research project, students on the consecutive Master's degree course deepen the knowledge and skills they acquired during their Bachelor's degree in one or two of four specializations from the field of cognitive science:
- "Cognition: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning" looks at cognitive processes in artificial systems and is dedicated to topics such as artificial intelligence, neuroinformatics and neuro-AI, and computational linguistics.
- "Cognition: (Computational) Neuroscience" is dedicated to topics in neuroscience and computer-oriented neuroscience.
- "Cognition: Psychology, Language, and Communication" examines cognitive processes in biological systems and is dedicated to topics such as cognitive modeling and psychology, theoretical and experimental linguistics, and animal cognition.
- "Cognition: Mind, Ethics, and Society" is dedicated to topics in the philosophy of mind and cognition and the ethics of artificial intelligence.
Depending on their specialization, graduates of cognitive science qualify for later research work in artificial intelligence, in an information technology environment or in data science, in the field of psychology, philosophy, neuroscience or linguistics. In addition, graduates are ideally trained to implement cognitive science findings in the field of human-machine interaction, in the IT sector, in sub-areas of the medical-clinical environment and in psychology-related fields of activity.
Qualified Bachelor's degree in "Cognitive Science" ( B.Sc. ) or a comparable degree. Graduates of participating or related disciplines may also be admitted. In addition, a good knowledge of English must be demonstrated. Further information can be found in the admission regulations.
This degree program is admission-free.
All information pertaining to the application process may be found at Application, Admission and Enrollment.
German and international applicants with German certification can find all information about the application and the application deadline for the desired semester under Master's degree programs (single subject).
Please note: different application conditions and deadlines may apply for Applicants with Non-German Certification!
The examination regulations do not prescribe an obligatory period of study abroad. However, a number of Options for Studying Abroad are available to you within a range of exchange programs. The International Office will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
Studying at Osnabrück University means you will be subject to semester fees. Depending on how much of your study credit (standard period of study plus tolerance semester) you have used up, you may also have to pay long-term study fees. Additional information on this topic may be found at How Much does Studying Cost?
Our Central Study Counseling Service will be happy to provide you with all the information you need about studying, admission requirements and the structure of your chosen program.
Each department’s Departmental Study Counselling Service will answer any questions you might have about the content of individual programs.
The degree program is accredited by the Agency for Quality Assurance through Accreditation of Study Programs (AQAS).