Cognitive Systems (Master of Science) Ulm University

MSc Cognitive Systems @ Ulm University
Understand Cognition. Engineer Intelligence.

Cognitive systems enable humans and machines to perceive their environment, learn from experience, make decisions, solve problems, and interact intelligently. Whether grounded in the human brain or implemented in technical systems like robots and smart devices, cognitive capabilities are key to promote innovation in today’s digital world.

The English-taught Master’s programme in Cognitive Systems at Ulm University offers a unique opportunity to understand, empirically explore and shape these capabilities through an interdisciplinary lens.

What makes this programme special?

• Truly interdisciplinary: At Ulm University, Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology are part of the same faculty. This allows us to integrate theoretical, empirical, and computational approaches to cognition in a seamless and collaborative way.
• Research meets real-world application: From psychophysical studies and psychological testing to the development of intelligent technical systems, you’ll learn to connect human cognition with machine intelligence – both in theory and hands-on practice.
• Future-oriented and versatile: Our graduates are prepared for careers in cutting-edge fields such as intelligent robotics, cognitive assistance systems, smart vehicles and devices, AI in healthcare, and human-computer interaction – or for further academic research.

In this programme, you will study the foundations, principles and mechanisms behind perception, learning, memory, reasoning, and interaction – and learn how to model and implement these abilities in both humans and machines. You’ll investigate cognitive functions through experiments and simulations, and apply your knowledge to the development of intelligent systems aiming to improve and support human action and performance.

The MSc programme in Cognitive Systems at Ulm University provides a unique study and research environment with computer science and psychology in one faculty. The course programme consists of combinations of subjects and interdisciplinary courses being taught by experts in the field. The four-semester programme is divided into four subjects – Basic, Interdisciplinary, Special and Applied – and is completed by a Master's thesis. In the mandatory coursework of Basic and Interdisciplinary Subjects, students become familiar with the most important theoretical and methodological principles of disciplines which are complementary to their prior training: students with a Bachelor's degree in psychology or related fields are introduced to fundamentals of computer science; students with a Bachelor's degree in computer science, media informatics, a natural science or technical field are introduced to general psychology and experiment design. Students are introduced to fundamental concepts of cognitive systems, their underlying computational mechanisms, and get an overview of different approaches on formal modelling to investigate functions of cognitive systems. A research-oriented colloquium is offered, in which invited speakers report on the latest developments in various aspects of the subject area. In the elective coursework of Special and Applied Subjects, students further deepen methodical contents and specialisation in the context of Cognitive Systems. The modules in the Applied Subject are all organised as projects and thus offer the opportunity for various practical work in close cooperation with the scientific institutions supervising the study programme.

For their Master's thesis, students work in interdisciplinary research groups that support the course programme of Cognitive Systems or at an external institution that is active in the field of Cognitive Systems.

The programme does not include a mandatory internship. However, there are several research institutions and companies on campus where students can participate in an internship during the lecture-free period.

Academic admission requirements include proof of a Bachelor’s degree or a degree from a programme at a higher education institution in Germany or abroad. This degree must be from a programme with a minimum duration of three years of study. The degree programme should have covered basic knowledge in at least one of the following three areas related to cognitive science: information processing in natural systems, information processing in technical systems, or mathematical modelling. This includes programmes in cognitive science, psychology, and computer science. Graduates in other subjects (particularly in engineering sciences, mathematics, physics, or biology with a specialisation in neurosciences) may also be considered. These graduates must demonstrate previous learning and/or practical experience that is relevant to the curriculum of the Master's programme and indicate this in the "subject-specific additional information” form.

Proof of adequate examination results are either a Bachelor's degree with an overall grade of 2.5 or better or, if the programme has not yet been completed, examination results showing an average of 2.5 or better by the application deadline.

The semester contribution is 182 EUR per semester. For further details, visit the Office of the Registrar website: https://www.uni-ulm.de/en/study/organisation/tuition-fees/.

The cost of living in Ulm is estimated to be around 945 EUR to 1,000 EUR per month. For more information on the costs students in Ulm can expect, see the following website: https://www.uni-ulm.de/en/io/degree-phd/welcome/finances/living-expenses/.

Student assistant jobs are regularly offered by institutes in all faculties as well as in the central administration. Student assistants help with the preparation and execution of tutorials, work on research projects, or help with administrative tasks. Furthermore, several companies with strong ties to the university are located on campus (e.g. Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Continental, BMW Car IT, Sartorius, and more) and offer the possibility of student jobs.

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Students who perform well academically and/or participate in community service are eligible to apply for scholarships such as the "Deutschlandstipendium".

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The Career Service at Ulm University serves as a valuable resource for students, offering assistance in career exploration, skill development, and a successful transition from academia to the professional world.

The Graduate & Professional Training Centre Ulm ("ProTrainU") focuses on supporting doctoral students and other young researchers in their careers and professional development.

The Entrepreneurs' Campus at Ulm University offers opportunities for creative academics who want to develop their ideas into products or business models.

Accommodation in student dormitories is arranged for admitted students by the Cognitive Systems programme office. Rental costs are between 298 EUR and 502 EUR per month.

Founded in 1967, Ulm University is dedicated to world-class teaching and research in medicine and STEM. Its 10,000 students are distributed among the faculties of medicine, engineering, computer science and psychology, mathematics and economics as well as natural sciences.

According to a Times Higher Education ranking based on research and teaching excellence, Ulm University is ranked 14th worldwide among all universities founded in the "Golden Age of Higher Education", an era between 1945 and 1967 that is characterised by rapid university expansion. Ulm University is also a founding member of YERUN, a network of highly ranked young European research universities.

Ulm University's subject range concentrates on the STEM fields (natural sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics). The latest research findings are swiftly incorporated into the curriculum, ensuring cutting-edge subjects and content. Ulm University attaches great importance to the ongoing refinement of its high standards in teaching, which are defined and anchored in its teaching mission statement. 

As a young research university, Ulm University is oriented towards the global challenges of the future. Strategic and interdisciplinary research themes are contributing to improvements in the areas of green energy, quantum technologies, data science as well as human health and well-being. Great success in the acquisition of third-party funding and numerous larger projects, such as collaborative research centres and a Cluster of Excellence, are all testimonies to the university's research strength.

Ulm University is the centre of and driving force behind the "Science City Ulm", an innovative teaching, research and science hub. There are numerous start-ups, development centres of renowned companies such as Siemens, Nokia, Mercedes-Benz Group AG, BMW and Continental, as well as clinics and non-university research institutions that are well-connected with the university. As a result of close collaborations with these partners, students benefit from access to contract lecturers from the industry as well as invaluable opportunities for research projects, internships and final theses. 

For more information on Ulm University, see https://www.uni-ulm.de/en/.

Ulm is one of the most innovative, dynamic, fast-growing and liveable cities in Germany. It is located in the heart of southern Germany near Stuttgart, Munich, the Alps and Switzerland.

With a population of more than 120,000 people, Ulm has an ideal size for living, studying and working. The city offers a mix of medieval and modern architecture and a great variety of cultural, sports and leisure activities.

A healthy mix of medium-sized businesses and global players, high-tech and trade, and innovation and tradition makes Ulm and the greater Ulm area one of Germany's economically most dynamic regions.

A truly outstanding landmark is the "Muenster", Ulm's cathedral. The Muenster has the world's second tallest church steeple, which measures 161.5 metres (530 ft).

Ulm is also the birthplace of Albert Einstein (1879 to 1955), the world's most famous scientist. 

Are you interested in learning more? Check out this video featuring the highlights of Ulm.