UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH · UNITED KINGDOM
Cognitive Science (Humanities) MA (Hons)
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS C851
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 4 yearsDuration
- MA (Hons)Award
- C851UCAS Code
- SeptemberStart Date
- Study abroad availableInternational Opportunities
- University of EdinburghInstitution
Cognitive science is the interdisciplinary study of the human mind, exploring abilities like reasoning, perception, memory, awareness, emotion, attention, judgement, motor control, and language. It uses methods such as computer modelling, linguistic analysis, philosophical reasoning, robotics, neuroimaging, and psychological experiments, drawing together experts from linguistics, psychology, philosophy, neuroscience, and computer science. The University of Edinburgh, a founding centre of this discipline and a pioneer in artificial intelligence, offers a program that delves into the intricacies of human cognition and intelligent systems. You will learn from researchers at the forefront of the field, ensuring your studies are up-to-date with rapid advancements, particularly in AI and its implications for understanding the mind. The MA (Hons) Cognitive Science (Humanities) program provides a broad foundation in core areas, aiming to illuminate the relationships between language and thought, mind and brain, and the philosophical implications of neuroimaging and computational modelling. This four-year degree offers flexibility, allowing you to explore a range of subjects outside your core discipline in the first two years. This structure enables you to broaden your academic interests or deepen your knowledge in specific areas before specializing in your honours years. The program is delivered full-time at the Central Area campus, with the study abroad option available.
Curriculum
The four-year MA (Hons) Cognitive Science (Humanities) program is structured to provide a broad foundation and then allow for specialization. In Year 1 and 2, you will take foundational courses in cognitive science, psychology, philosophy, linguistics, and computer science, with the flexibility to choose additional courses from these interconnected disciplines. Years 3 and 4 focus on more specialized topics within these fields, allowing you to tailor your studies to your interests.
- Year 1
- General Cognitive Science overview (perception, memory, motor control, language, reasoning)
- Introduction to reasoning and deduction
- Structure of language
- Introduction to philosophy (history, morality, value)
- Elective course from Psychology, Philosophy, Linguistics, or Informatics
- Year 2
- More specific courses in sub-disciplines (e.g., Knowledge and Reality (Philosophy))
- Courses in Psychology and Language Sciences
- Year 3
- Informatics topics (e.g., language processing, neural computation, robotics, computational modelling)
- Linguistics courses (e.g., language evolution, language acquisition, speech processing)
- Philosophy courses (e.g., ontology of mind, theories of mind, ethics)
- Psychology courses (e.g., memory and perception, attention, development)
Careers
The interdisciplinary skills gained from this program, combining analytical, computational, and critical thinking, prepare graduates for a wide array of career paths. The program's connection to AI and understanding the mind equips students for roles in technology, research, education, and beyond.
- Technology sector roles
- Research positions
- Education
- Data analysis
- AI development
- User experience (UX) research
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Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the university's tuition fee pages for the most current information.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the university's tuition fee pages for the most current information.
LivingEstimated at £13,914 for a 39-week academic year, and £18,552 for a full year, for a single undergraduate student living in Edinburgh for 2026-2027.
Tuition fees for this programme are available via a link on the university's programme page. Additional costs may apply for an optional year abroad, including tuition fees, accommodation, living costs, and country-specific expenses. Reductions in tuition fees may apply for students undertaking an exchange or placement year abroad.
How to apply
1. Check entry requirementsVisit the University of Edinburgh's programme page to confirm the specific academic and English language requirements for your country and qualifications.
2. Prepare your applicationGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, and proof of English language proficiency. You will also need a personal statement and references.
3. Apply via UCASMost undergraduate applications are submitted through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Ensure you meet the UCAS deadline for applications.
4. Submit your applicationComplete the UCAS application form accurately and submit it before the deadline.
5. Receive an offerIf your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Edinburgh. This may be conditional or unconditional.
6. Accept your offerRespond to your offer through UCAS by the specified deadline.
7. Arrange finances and accommodationOnce your offer is confirmed, begin arranging your student visa, finances, and university accommodation.
8. Prepare for arrivalAttend any pre-departure briefings and prepare for your move to Edinburgh.