Cognitive System (MSc) University of Hildesheim

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The international Master’s programme in Cognitive Systems is currently not accepting new students.

The international Master’s programme in Cognitive Systems offers an interdisciplinary approach that integrates artificial intelligence, psychology, neuroscience, and computational modelling. It provides students with a deep understanding of both human cognition and intelligent machine behaviour.

The programme trains students to design, model, and analyse complex cognitive systems, with practical applications in robotics, human-computer interaction, and cognitive ergonomics. Through a curriculum grounded in both theory and practice, and taught by experienced faculty in collaboration with industry and research partners, graduates are well-prepared for careers at the intersection of cognitive science and advanced technology.

Due to limited teaching capacity, the international Master’s programme in Cognitive Systems is currently not accepting new students. We will update the information and announce the next application round as soon as the programme reopens.

The two-year Master's programme in Cognitive System comprises four semesters with a total of 120 CPs (credit points). The study programme is structured into a methodological core (65%), an application area (10%), and a Master's thesis (25%).

No tuition fees

You will pay a contribution of approx. 400 EUR per semester. This is a contribution to student services, university administration, and the student council. You can use the local public transport in Hildesheim and Lower Saxony free of charge. You will also benefit from discounts on meals at the university cafeteria and much more.

You will need around 934 EUR per month to cover your living expenses:

• Rent, approx. 350 to 700 EUR
• Health insurance, approx. 130 EUR
• Books and stationery, approx. 50 EUR
• Meals, approx. 200 EUR
• Other expenses, approx. 100 EUR

Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Psychology, Neuroscience, or related fields are encouraged to apply. Typically, students who excel in this programme possess strong analytical skills, a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of cognitive science, and practical experience in programming and systems.

English language proficiency is required to undertake the Master's programme. Sufficient knowledge of English can be demonstrated by a certificate (TOEFL computer-based test score of 61 or above, IELTS band of 6 or above, or an equivalent certificate) or a German "Abitur".

Due to limited teaching capacity, the international Master’s programme in Cognitive Systems is currently not accepting new students. We will update the information and announce the next application round as soon as the programme reopens.

The university offers Lore-Auerbach scholarships supporting especially capable and socially committed students. Students in acute financial emergencies can apply for a scholarship from the Social Fund. The university is also in charge of scholarship programmes like the Deutschlandstipendium (the German public-private scholarship) and the Landesstipendium Niedersachsen (scholarship of the State of Lower Saxony).
See: University of Hildesheim scholarships

Additionally, the International Office offers scholarships that support international students with graduation grants, grants for commitment, the DAAD Prize (funded by the DAAD / Federal Foreign Office, AA), and Rotary Club scholarships.
See: International Office

There are many job opportunities for students on campus (in the different departments, the central administration, etc.) and off campus. You can find part-time jobs here:

• career service
• student and research assistant positions

International students are only permitted to work in Germany with a work permit. The student visa allows a maximum of 120 full days (or 240 half days) of work per year. If you earn more than 538 EUR a month, you will be subject to higher health insurance premiums.

Make sure your study workload and working hours remain balanced.

Accommodation is available through the Student Services Office or on the private market. Many students live in shared flats. Offers of room vacancies can be found on the notice boards in the university or online on "WG-Börsen" (shared flat marketplaces). The student services for Eastern Lower Saxony (Studentenwerk OstNiedersachsen) also has a room marketplace online.

The career service is aimed at students and recent graduates of all degree programmes at the University of Hildesheim in all phases of the transition from study to work. Contact us — we will be happy to support you! During career week, you can take part in workshops specially designed for international students, for example, in application workshops or career talks.