Cognitive science is an emerging interdisciplinary effort to study cognitive phenomena on various levels. A broad field of disciplines including philosophy, artificial intelligence, neuroscience, linguistics, psychology, behavioural biology, anthropology, and others collaborate to tackle puzzling questions, such as:

• What is cognition?
• What is free will?
• What is the role of our bodies and the environment in cognition?
• How can I understand another person?
• Can we simulate our thinking on computers and/or in robots?
• Is there more to thinking and feelings than our neurons?

What is so special and unique about the Middle European interdisciplinary master's programme in Cognitive Science (Mei:CogSci) is its radical interdisciplinary approach, manifesting itself in the structure of the curriculum and in the didactic principles (e.g. work in intercultural, interdisciplinary teams, phenomenologically oriented [vs. discipline-oriented] approach, etc.). Moreover, the programme's international dimension results in a wide range of research opportunities.

This master's programme provides students with language competences (English), systematic knowledge and understanding of the nature, organisation and acquisition of knowledge in human and non-human, living and artificial systems, as well as knowledge and understanding of the basic concepts of the core disciplines of cognitive science. In addition, students have to choose an interdisciplinary specialisation in one phenomenal field of cognition, and they acquire knowledge and understanding of current, relevant topics and discussions of cognitive science.

Study Programme

MEi:CogSci is a joint master's programme offered by the following institutions: University of Vienna (and Medical University of Vienna), Comenius University in Bratislava, Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, University of Ljubljana, and University of Zagreb.

MEi:CogSci aims at educating students in the field of Cognitive Science by providing an environment for truly interdisciplinary study and research as well as a large number of areas for specialisation offered by the different partner institutions. It enables students to acquire fundamental concepts in cognitive science, as well as training in state-of-the-art methodological and research skills. Students develop expertise in a chosen area of interest, focusing on a cognitive phenomenon.

The degree programme consists of compulsory modules (core, advanced and specialisation modules), alternative compulsory modules and elective modules, covering the subject areas of artificial intelligence, social and cultural anthropology, biology, cognitive science, linguistics, neuroscience, philosophy, programming, psychology and statistics. In addition, students have to complete a specialisation module with a strong focus on practical training must be completed. As the master’s programme is offered as a joint degree, students have to complete 30 ECTS credits at a partner university and are awarded a joint academic degree by the participating institutions.

Due to the fact that each year only a small number of 30 highly qualified and motivated students are admitted to the programme, the teacher-student ratio is exceptional and creates an optimal study environment.

After Graduation

The master's programme MEi:CogSci provides graduates with the necessary theoretical/intellectual and empirical tools to pursue an academic career (PhD programme) in cognitive science or in one of the disciplines related to it. Apart from basic research, graduates in cognitive science increasingly find work in applied research. Depending on the direction of specialisation, prospective career fields include the IT-sector (interaction design, usability, Computer Supported Cooperative Work, knowledge management, cognitive technologies, AI applications, social media, etc.), education, biomedical and clinical research, as well as economy. The generic skills (such as teamwork, ability to communicate, reflection and evaluation skills, ability to quickly learn and adapt) acquired by graduates are of use in a variety of careers in the private sector.

Graduates of cognitive science are especially suited to work in highly interdisciplinary area, bringing experience in mediating between disciplines. These include strongly interdisciplinary fields, such as the IT and education sector, as well as consulting, human resources development and science journalism.