Our interdisciplinary 2-year M.Sc. program Cognitive Science at the RUB is designed with the aim of providing a broad background along with the option for specialization. In the first semester, the module ‘Introduction to Cognitive Science‘ offers a broad and interdisciplinary overview of the field Cognitive Science and introduces the persons involved in the program at Ruhr University. To provide a broad methods understanding to students from different disciplines, the field Basic Methods introduces the central methods of the disciplines in Cognitive Science. If you already have sufficient background in a particular area, one of the three modules may be omitted with the Program Coordinator’s approval, and the corresponding credit points can be reallocated to the Free Choice area. Soft Skill courses further enhance your professional effectiveness and employability.

In the second and third semester, courses are structured into ‘Core’ and ‘Focus’ modules of specific subject areas. Here, all courses are organized into three main pillars: Mind & Language (ML), Brain & Behavior (BB), Computation & Artificial Intelligence (CA). In the second semester, you will gain a general understanding of all three pillars through the Core Modules. In the third semester, two pillars are prioritized for specialization in the Focus Modules. The third semester also includes the Research Module which consists of an internship or practical course (depending on the chosen discipline) and the Master’s thesis proposal.

The fourth semester is fully dedicated to the Master’s thesis, which enables you to specialize in a research area of Cognitive Science that aligns with your personal interests and future career plans. The Free Choice area offers additional flexibility, allowing you to further tailor the program to your personal goals.

If you have already been enrolled in the program since WS24-25 or earlier, you can find the previous module plan that applies to you here.