Cognitive Science | Master

Course Objective and Future Career Options

Graduates of this degree program will be able to work scientifically in the cognitive and neurosciences. They are also qualified for research and leadership positions in corresponding industrial sectors. Based on their deep knowledge of cognitive processes and their neuronal foundations as well as mathematical and methodological skills the graduates of this program can conceptualize complex projects and experiments in various subfields of the cognitive sciences, formulate hypotheses and examine them quantitatively.

Prerequisites for Admission to the Master’s Program

Your continued interest in the mathematical and natural sciences, as well as a curiosity to establish neuronal foundations of human behaviour, provide a good foundation for being accepted into the program. In contrast, an interest in clinical psychology, psychiatric problems and their therapy, are clear contra-indications – these topics play no role in the degree course.

In general, the prerequisite for master’s studies at the University of Potsdam is a first academic degree, such as a bachelor’s degree. Your first degree should be in a subject relevant to the program, such as cognitive sciences, psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, or computer science. In addition, students must have sufficient basic knowledge in the areas of "Experimental Psychological Training", "Foundations of Mathematics" and "Programming of Experiments" amounting to 6 CP each, as defined within the bridge modules.

Applicants who cannot prove that they have sufficient knowledge in either "Experimental Psychological Training", "Foundations of Mathematics”, or "Programming of Experiments" are obliged upon admission to complete the corresponding bridge module as part of the master's program to acquire the necessary knowledge. If knowledge is lacking in more than one of the areas above, admission will not be granted.  

You will have the opportunity to demonstrate your strong interest in cognitive science, which must be evident from your previous studies and other activities, in a written subject-specific test (in English), in which you are asked about relevant (cognitive science, psychology, linguistics, mathematics and computer science) modules as well as other relevant qualifications (research internships, programming skills, conference contributions, etc.).  All of your prior knowledge is relevant for admission.

As the course is offered in English, we expect you to document very good English language skills, at least at the C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference.

You can read more about the subject-specific admission requirements in the respective admission regulations.