At a glance
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PhD
Level
The Cognition and Brain Sciences program at the University of Victoria offers Master of Science (MSc) and PhD tracks focused on understanding the mental processes and neural mechanisms underlying cognition. Research areas include embodied cognition, memory, and visual perception, aiming to uncover how representations and processes shape mental events and how past experiences influence current perception and behavior. Students engage with a variety of empirical methods, such as lab experiments, brain imaging, computational modeling, naturalistic studies, and case studies of individuals with brain damage.
Careers
Graduates from the Cognition and Brain Sciences program are equipped for a variety of research and applied roles.
- Neuroscience researcher
- Cognitive scientist
- Data analyst
- Research associate
- University faculty
Frequently asked questions
- What are the application deadlines for the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD program?
- Applications for the September 2026 intake open on September 1, 2025, and the deadline is November 30, 2025.
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD program?
- Tuition fees are assessed as a total program fee, divided into installments charged per term. The exact amount varies by program. International students also have mandatory medical insurance costs for their first term.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Neuroscience researcher, Cognitive scientist, Data analyst, Research associate, and University faculty positions.
- How is the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD program structured?
- The program prioritizes collaborative research with flexibility in course requirements, rather than extensive coursework. Students engage with various empirical methods including lab experiments and brain imaging.
- Are there scholarships available for PhD students in Cognition & Brain Sciences?
- Yes, scholarships include UVic Fellowships, Research Assistantships, Teaching Assistantships, and external awards. UVic also offers top-ups for major scholarships.
- What are the entry requirements for the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD program?
- Prospective students should consult the specific admission requirements for the Psychology PhD program, as well as general Faculty of Graduate Studies information.
Entry requirements
Master's Degree (MSc)Consult the Psychology MSc admission requirements.
Doctoral Degree (PhD)Consult the Psychology PhD admission requirements.
Prospective students are encouraged to consult the specific admission requirements for the MSc and PhD programs in Psychology. It is also recommended to review the information for current graduate students and the admissions FAQ for further details.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are assessed as a total degree program fee, divided into installments charged per term (September, January, May). The exact amount varies by program. International students must also obtain health insurance.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are assessed as a total degree program fee, divided into installments charged per term (September, January, May). The exact amount varies by program.
LivingNot specified.
Graduate students pay program-assessed fees per term, which may include full or half tuition installments based on units taken. Ancillary fees for services like U-Pass, health insurance, and recreation are also charged. International students have mandatory temporary medical insurance in their first term.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other required documents as specified by the Psychology department and the Faculty of Graduate Studies.
2. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the My UVic application portal.
3. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed by the department, and admission decisions are communicated to applicants.
Scholarships
UVic Fellowshipsup to $20,000 per year
Research AssistantshipsVaries (paid to do research with supervisor)
Teaching AssistantshipsStarting at approx. $31/hour (limited to 10 hours/week)
External Awards & FellowshipsVaries
UVic Top-up for Major Scholarships$4,000 for NSERC, SSHRC, CIHR; $2,000 for some others
Frequently asked questions
What are the application deadlines for the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD program?
+
Applications for the September 2026 intake open on September 1, 2025, and the deadline is November 30, 2025.
What are the tuition fees for international students in the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD program?
+
Tuition fees are assessed as a total program fee, divided into installments charged per term. The exact amount varies by program. International students also have mandatory medical insurance costs for their first term.
What are the career prospects after completing the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Neuroscience researcher, Cognitive scientist, Data analyst, Research associate, and University faculty positions.
How is the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD program structured?
+
The program prioritizes collaborative research with flexibility in course requirements, rather than extensive coursework. Students engage with various empirical methods including lab experiments and brain imaging.
Are there scholarships available for PhD students in Cognition & Brain Sciences?
+
Yes, scholarships include UVic Fellowships, Research Assistantships, Teaching Assistantships, and external awards. UVic also offers top-ups for major scholarships.
What are the entry requirements for the Cognition & Brain Sciences PhD program?
+
Prospective students should consult the specific admission requirements for the Psychology PhD program, as well as general Faculty of Graduate Studies information.