University of Warsaw

What you'll study

This master’s programme combines theoretical, experimental and computational approaches to the study of mind and cognition. Core topics typically include cognitive psychology, cognitive neuroscience, computational modelling and machine learning, psycholinguistics and semantics, philosophy of mind and research methods (including experimental design and advanced statistics).

• Foundations of Cognition — perception, attention, memory, learning and decision making from behavioural and neural perspectives.
• Cognitive Neuroscience — brain organisation for cognition, methods such as EEG/ERP and fMRI, and neurophysiological data interpretation.
• Computational and Formal Methods — modelling cognitive processes, neural networks, probabilistic models and introductory machine learning techniques.
• Language and Cognition — psycholinguistics, cognitive semantics and approaches to language processing.
• Research Methods and Statistics — experimental design, quantitative analysis, data visualisation and reproducible research practices.
• Electives and Specialisation — topics may include human–computer interaction, cognitive robotics, developmental cognition, neuropsychology or advanced natural language processing.
• Master’s Thesis / Research Project — an extended empirical or computational project carried out under the supervision of programme staff, often involving laboratory work or data analysis.

Teaching combines lectures, seminars, laboratory classes and supervised research. Students gain hands-on experience with cognitive testing, neuroimaging or computational toolkits, and are encouraged to take interdisciplinary electives across psychology, computer science, linguistics and philosophy.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant first-cycle degree (such as in cognitive science, psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, mathematics or philosophy) or demonstrate equivalent background. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a CV, and a motivation letter explaining research interests. Evidence of quantitative and experimental skills is advantageous; applicants without a formal quantitative background may be asked to show coursework or experience in statistics, programming or experimental methods.

• Degree: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
• Language: Proficiency in English sufficient to follow postgraduate-level instruction; recognised language certificates or equivalent evidence may be required.
• Supporting documents: academic transcripts, CV, motivation statement; academic references and a sample of academic writing or project portfolio can strengthen the application.

Specific documentation requirements and any additional criteria are set by the university’s admissions office; prospective applicants should consult the official programme page for detailed instructions.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme go on to a broad range of research and applied roles. The degree prepares students for doctoral study and careers in cognitive and brain sciences as well as positions in industry where cognitive expertise is valued.

• Research and academia — pursuing PhD programmes or research assistant roles in cognitive science, neuroscience, psycholinguistics and related fields.
• Technology and AI — roles in machine learning, natural language processing, human–computer interaction and user experience research.
• Data-focused careers — data analyst, data scientist or research analyst positions that use experimental design and statistical modelling skills.
• Healthcare and applied neurotechnology — clinical research support, neurofeedback and cognitive rehabilitation technology companies (often requiring additional clinical qualifications for therapeutic roles).
• Education, policy and consultancy — positions involving educational technology, science communication, usability consulting and evidence-based policy development.

Why study at University of Warsaw

The University of Warsaw offers this programme within an interdisciplinary environment that brings together expertise from psychology, biology, computer science, linguistics and philosophy. Students benefit from access to laboratories and methodological training, including behavioural testing facilities and neuroimaging resources, as well as supervision by active researchers in cognitive science.

• Interdisciplinary curriculum that supports both empirical and computational approaches to cognition.
• Opportunities to collaborate with research centres and to join ongoing projects across departments.
• Location in Warsaw provides access to a dynamic academic and cultural environment, with partnerships and mobility options within Europe.

Prospective students should consult the University of Warsaw’s official programme pages for the most current information on application procedures and course availability.