Cognitive System (MSc)

Overview The international Master of Science in Cognitive Systems is currently not accepting new students. Taught in English, the programme takes an interdisciplinary approach that combines artificial intelligence, psychology, neuroscience and computational modelling to explore both human cognition and the behaviour of intelligent machines.

Curriculum and career prospects Students are trained to design, model and analyse complex cognitive systems, with a balance of theoretical foundations and practical experience. Coursework and projects emphasise real-world applications such as robotics, human–computer interaction and cognitive ergonomics. Instruction is provided by experienced faculty and delivered in cooperation with research and industry partners, equipping graduates for roles that bridge cognitive science and advanced technology.

Admission status and requirements

• Admissions status: currently not accepting new students.
• Language of instruction: English.
• Degree awarded: Master of Science.
• Academic focus: interdisciplinary study of AI, psychology, neuroscience and computational modelling.
• Typical application areas for graduates: robotics, human–computer interaction, cognitive ergonomics, and related research or industry positions.
• For up-to-date information on admission criteria and future intakes, consult the programme’s official webpage or the university’s admissions office.

This two-year, four-semester Master’s course totals 120 credit points (CP) and is organized to build strong methodological foundations, allow targeted application, and culminate in an independent research project. Students can expect an average workload of about 30 CP per semester. The curriculum is deliberately weighted toward acquiring core methods and techniques, with structured opportunities to apply those tools in a chosen area and to demonstrate research competence in the Master’s thesis.

The largest portion of the degree (65% of the programme) is devoted to a methodological core. These modules provide in-depth training in the theoretical principles, analytical approaches and practical techniques that underpin cognitive systems—giving students the skills needed to design, evaluate and implement scientific and technical solutions. The smaller application component (10%) lets students focus those methods on a specific domain or real-world problem, providing contextual experience and specialization.

A substantial Master’s thesis makes up the remaining 25% of the programme and serves as the capstone research experience. Through the thesis, students undertake an independent research project supervised by faculty, demonstrating the ability to formulate research questions, carry out rigorous investigation, interpret results and communicate findings in written form.

Key facts and credit distribution

• Total duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
• Total credits: 120 CP (≈30 CP per semester)
• Methodological core: 65% — 78 CP
• Application area: 10% — 12 CP
• Master’s thesis: 25% — 30 CP
• Learning outcomes include solid methodological competence, the ability to apply methods in a chosen domain, and proven research skills demonstrated by the thesis.

Graduates are prepared for roles at the intersection of cognitive science and advanced technology, such as cognitive systems engineer, AI/ML specialist with cognitive modelling expertise, HCI/UX researcher, robotics developer, or cognitive ergonomics consultant. The programme’s blend of theory, methodological training and applied projects equips students for technically demanding positions in industry (tech companies, robotics firms, UX labs) and for roles in applied research and development.