Cognitive Science | Embodied Cognition

Subjects: Psychology

M.Sc. | Master of Science

Course description

On the one hand, pursuing a master's degree in Human Cognition expands and deepens the technical and methodological knowledge you gained during your bachelor's studies. You'll delve into a variety of subject-specific and interdisciplinary methods, enabling you to tackle cognitive process analysis and develop effective solutions. Engaging with the latest research, you'll work on modeling neurocognitive processes and systems. You'll master time-controlled stimulus presentation, reaction measurement, and the basics of presenting animated stimuli. Additionally, you'll gain extensive knowledge of experimental psychological and psychophysical methods, particularly in the computer-aided implementation of experimental designs using programming languages for data collection. You'll learn to identify new problem areas, investigate them experimentally, and refine existing analytical approaches. Collaborating with team members, you'll prepare and present research findings to an international audience. This program equips you with the skills to understand complex cognitive processes and contribute meaningfully to the field of human cognition.

Application Requirements

Language Requirements

UNIcert® III or IV certificate TOEFL® Internet-Based Test (iBT) or TOEFL iBT Home Edition with at least 95 points Cambridge English C1 Advanced (CAE) with at least 180 points IELTS “Academic” or IELTS Online with at least 7 points in every test component Proof of completion of a program of study at a recognized university with English as the exclusive language of instruction. Suitable certificates or documents to prove an English-language program of study include the degree certificate, a transcript of records, a diploma supplement, regulations concerning access to and conduct of studies, or comparable evidence. Certificate of the higher education entrance qualification obtained for an Englishlanguage course of education in a country that has English as an official language Pearson Test of English - PTE Academic or PTE Academic Online with at least 76 points Cambridge English C2 Proficiency (CPE)

Qualification Requirements

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.