International Programmes 2026/2027

Cognitive Science (BSc) Cognitive Science (BSc)

Osnabrück University • Osnabrück

Degree
Bachelor of Science
Course location
Osnabrück
Teaching language
  • German
  • English
Languages

Courses are taught mostly in English. A few courses are taught in German (mainly courses offered for the programme by other institutes, such as computer science and mathematics courses).

We offer German courses for foreign students, and we offer English courses for anyone who is interested.

Full-time / part-time
  • full-time
Programme duration
6 semesters
Beginning
Winter semester
Application periods

The application deadline for international students is typically 15 August (for the next winter semester).

More information on application periods
Please find more details on this website.
Joint degree / double degree programme
No
Description/content

The Bachelor's programme is designed to provide a sound foundation in all core areas of cognitive science and a first specialisation based on one's own interests within the three focus areas of cognitive science:

  • "Cognition: Mind, Ethics, and Society" focuses mainly on philosophical questions in cognitive science, such as topics in philosophy of the mind and cognition and the ethics of artificial intelligence.
  • "Cognition: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning" focuses on cognition in artificial systems and comprises topics in artificial intelligence, neuroinformatics, computational linguistics, NeuroAI, and computer vision.
  • "Cognition: Psychology, Communication, Neuroscience, and Behaviour" focuses on cognition in biological systems and comprises topics in cognitive modelling and psychology, theoretical and experimental linguistics, neuroscience, and animal cognition.

Particular emphasis is placed on the methods employed in these fields and on their interdisciplinary relations, as well as a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science relevant to virtually all areas of cognitive science.

The Bachelor's programme is comprised of 180 credits (including both coursework and Bachelor's thesis) spread over six semesters, one of which (preferably the fifth semester) must be spent at a university or research institution abroad (for studies or an internship). The programme is completed with a Bachelor's thesis and leads to a "Bachelor of Science (BSc)" degree in Cognitive Science. The language of instruction is predominantly English, but a basic command of German (level B1 or higher) is required in addition to a good command of English (level B2 or higher) for a few courses that are offered in German only. International applicants who satisfy this criterion are encouraged to apply.

Course organisation

The Bachelor's programme comprises 180 ECTS credits (including thesis) spread over six semesters, one of which (preferably the fifth semester) must be spent at a university abroad. The programme is completed with a Bachelor's thesis (12 ECTS credits). The courses are documented in German and English in accordance with ECTS.

Mentoring: Student mentors offer advice on all questions concerning studies.
Tutorials: most undergraduate courses are supported by tutorials held by senior students under the guidance of the lecturer. This provides assistance to newcomers and promotes cooperation between students.

PDF Download
A Diploma supplement will be issued
Yes
International elements
  • Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
  • Integrated/optional study abroad unit(s)
  • Specialist literature in other languages
  • International guest lecturers
Description of other international elements

Students must complete a mandatory semester at a university abroad; alternatively, students can pursue a three-month internship abroad to work on topics in the different areas of cognitive science. Most courses are taught in English; course materials, literature, and assignments are provided in English.

Integrated/optional study abroad unit(s)

Students must complete a mandatory semester at a university abroad, usually in the fifth semester. Courses relevant to the different areas of cognitive science as well as further courses (e.g. language courses) can be accredited.

Integrated internships

Instead of doing a study abroad unit, students may complete an internship abroad (at least three months, usually in a foreign research group).

Our students are very successful when they apply for RISE and Mitacs internship stipends.

Course-specific, integrated German language courses
No
Course-specific, integrated English language courses
No
Tuition fees per semester
None
Semester contribution

Each semester, students are required to pay approx. 350 EUR as a semester fee (including free use of regional public transport services).

Costs of living

In order to cover personal expenses during the study programme, we recommend that students budget at least 860 EUR per month for accommodation, living, health insurance, books, and miscellaneous expenses.

Funding opportunities within the university
No
Academic admission requirements

Applicants must have a German "Abitur" or an equivalent foreign certificate providing the right of entry to higher education. 
Courses and exams acquired at a different university may be accredited on the basis of ECTS.

German language skills
B1 required, please provide an official language certificate, e.g.:
  • Goethe-Zertifikat: Goethe-Zertifikat B1
English language skills
B2 required, please provide an official language certificate, e.g.:
  • IELTS Academic: 5.5
Application periods

The application deadline for international students is typically 15 August (for the next winter semester).

More information on application periods
Please find more details on this website.
Submit application via
Please check this website.
Possibility of finding part-time employment

Students who have completed their Bachelor's studies may be employed as student assistants.

Accommodation

The accommodation office of the student services ("Studentenwerk") offers modern single rooms in dormitories and helps students find private rooms and flats. The rooms must be rented for at least half a year. The cost of a single room in a student dormitory is approx. 180 to 350 EUR per month.

Career advisory services and programmes for future professionals

The degree programme coordinators as well as the student mentoring team are available for consultation regarding possible career choices as well as profile development.

Support for international students and doctoral candidates
  • Welcome event
  • Tutors
General services and support for international students and doctoral candidates

The mentoring team organises the welcome week for all Bachelor's students. During this week, the team will give specific counselling to international students.

Osnabrück University

University location

Activate map

To activate the map, click on the "Show map" button. We would like to point out that data will be transmitted to OpenStreetMap after activation. You can find out more in our privacy policy. You can revoke your consent to the transmission of data at any time.