Cognitive Sуstеms
(Starting: Winter Semester)
- Starting
- Winter Semester
- Mode of Admission:
- local admission restriction (local NC)
- Study Mode:
- On campus
- Registration Fee & Tuition Information:
- All students are required to pay a semester feе οf €182.00.
Five Reasons to choose this Master's Program
Video
Welcome to Ulm — A First Look at the City and Its University
Course Description
Curious how perception, learning, and decision-making actually work — in both brains and machines? The MSc Cognitive Systems at Ulm University is a fully English-taught master's that unites computer science and psychology within a single faculty, a rare combination in Germany. You'll model the link between neurobiological mechanisms and cognitive behavior, then apply those insights to intelligent robots, autonomous vehicles, assistance systems, and smart technologies that enhance human performance. With only 20 places per intake, you study in a focused, research-driven environment at the heart of one of Germany's most innovative high-tech regions, surrounded by leading employers.
This program suits graduates with a bachelor's (grade 2.5 or better) in cognitive science, psychology, or computer science — or in engineering, physics, mathematics, or neuroscience-focused biology with a fitting background. You'll need a strong quantitative foundation and English at B2 level. It's built for interdisciplinary thinkers fascinated by how cognition works.
Your studies open with foundational and interdisciplinary modules in computer science and psychology, then move into special and applied subjects, finishing with a master's thesis in semester four. Tailored bridge courses level the field: psychology for technical students, computer science for those from psychology. You'll work with theoretical concepts, psychophysical studies, and psychological tests, building models of biological and technical systems.
Graduates are prepared for roles wherever human–technology interaction matters, in both research and industry:
- Developer of intelligent systems and cognitive technical systems
- Specialist in human-machine interaction and interface design
- Cognitive ergonomics expert
- E-learning and assistive technology designer
- Researcher in academic or industrial R&D settings
- Doctoral candidate at Ulm University or other national/international institutions
Special Program Features
Bridge courses for every background
Tailored introductions level the field: psychology basics for technical students, and computer science fundamentals for psychology grads, so everyone starts on solid ground.
Strong regional employers
The Ulm region is home to many companies that specifically seek graduates with this kind of interdisciplinary expertise, giving you strong local career prospects after your degree.
A truly global community
An English-taught program and an active International Office welcome students from across the globe, creating a genuinely diverse and truly international atmosphere on campus. → More Info
Accreditations
System Accreditation
System Accreditation
System accreditation is the internal quality assurance system of a state or state-recognized higher education institution in Germany. With system accreditation, a higher education institution receives the right to award the seal of the Accreditation Council for its self-assessed study programs.
Webinars with MyGermanUniversity
Upcoming webinars
23 February 2027, 04:00 PM (Europe/Berlin)
Ulm University
M.Sc. Cognitive Sуstеms 
01 April 2027, 04:00 PM (Europe/Berlin)
Ulm University
M.Sc. Cognitive Sуstеms Requirements
Qualification Requirements
The application requirements for the study program in "Cognitive Sуstеms" are:
of at least three years of study (180 ECTS), with foundational coursework in at least one of cognitive science's three core areas: information processing in natural systems, information processing in technical systems, or mathematical modeling. Degrees in cognitive science, psychology, and computer science qualify directly. Applicants from related fields—such as engineering, physics, biology with a neuroscience focus, and mathematics—may also be considered if their background demonstrates suitability for the program. This is assessed based on relevant prior coursework and practical experience and its fit with the Cognitive Systems master's curriculum at Ulm University, as documented in the subject-specific information fοrm
at least 2.5 (according to the German grading systеm)
English Language Proficienсу → Language Requirementsat least B2 (CΕFR)
Language Requirements
The following certificates are recognized as proof of your language proficiency.
EnglishSpecification: If both IELTS score and CEFR level are indicated, the higher language level is recognized
Application & Admission
Application Deadlines
German Students 
Other EU Students 
Non-EU Students Non-EU Students| Intake | Winter Semester |
| Application deadline | 15 Mayin > 6 months |
| Application mode | Uni-assist → More info |
| Application fee | uni-assist Fees: €75 for the first application, €30 for each additional application (in the given semester). |
German Students
| Intake | Winter Semester |
| Application deadline | 15 Mayin > 6 months |
| Application mode | Directly at university → More info |
Other EU Students
| Intake | Winter Semester |
| Application deadline | 15 Mayin > 6 months |
| Application mode | Uni-assist → More info |
| Application fee | uni-assist Fees: €75 for the first application, €30 for each additional application (in the given semester). |
Application Procedure & Selection
Application Documents
Applies only to applicants whose native language is not English and who have not earned their degree from an institution where English is the language of instructiοn.
Applies only to applicants whose qualifying degree was earned in China, Vietnam, οr India.
Applies only to applicants whose qualifying degree was not earned in Germanу.
Location
