The MSc Cognitive Systems programme is a two-year Master's degree programme that covers the areas of computational linguistics, machine learning, and knowledge representation and reasoning. The programme is unique in bringing together all three fields in an interdisciplinary combination. The main focus is on developing intelligent computer systems; we also cover formal models of human cognitive processes. The programme teaches you how to build computer systems that process language and that learn, reason, and solve problems autonomously. It is a four-semester programme that is jointly taught by the Department of Computer Science and the computational linguistics and psycholinguistics groups within the Department of Linguistics. The programme provides students with strong foundations in computational linguistics, knowledge representation and reasoning, machine learning, and statistical modelling.
The study programme starts off with lectures that teach you the basics of language, learning, and reasoning. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the MSc Cognitive Systems programme, we assume that most students will have incomplete knowledge of one or two of the foundation areas (mathematics, computer science, and linguistics). These students must attend and pass the foundation modules for the respective areas in their first semester. All students are expected to pass three basic modules that will provide them with deeper knowledge of the foundation areas. As you progress through the programme, the responsibility of defining your own research problems will then shift more and more from us towards you. You can further extend your knowledge in the chosen areas via advanced elective modules, two project modules, and one individual research module. At the end, you will complete your first larger-scale research project in the form of your MSc thesis. PDF Download
Course details verified 10 Sep 2026 — intakes, entry requirements and course facts · official source
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Applicants need to demonstrate that they already have programming skills as well as background knowledge in at least one of these areas: Foundations of Mathematics, Foundations of Computer Science, or Foundations of Linguistics. We accept students from a variety of backgrounds, such as computational linguistics, computer science, linguistics, or neighbouring disciplines, e.g. mathematics and psychology. Documentation of your background knowledge in at least one of these areas: Foundations of Mathematics (calculus, linear algebra, statistics), Foundations of Computer Science (data structures and algorithms, formal languages and automata), or Foundations of Linguistics (syntax, semantics, phonology, pragmatics). It is possible to document your background knowledge by having taken at least 9 ECTS worth of classes. Documentation of your programming skills. The preferred way is that your transcript of records clearly lists at least 6 ECTS worth of programming classes. Alternatively, you can send in certificates regarding extracurricular programming courses that you have attended or documentation of programming projects that you have completed.
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Cognitive Systems: Language, Learning, and Reasoning — FAQs
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The main intake is Winter semester. Most universities admit on a rolling basis — we confirm the exact deadline for your profile, free.
Applicants need to demonstrate that they already have programming skills as well as background knowledge in at least one of these areas: Foundations of Mathematics, Foundations of Computer Science, or Foundations of Linguistics. We accept students from a variety of backgrounds, such as computational linguistics, computer science, linguistics, or neighbouring disciplines, e.g. mathematics and psychology. Documentation of your background knowledge in at least one of these areas: Foundations of Mathematics (calculus, linear algebra, statistics), Foundations of Computer Science (data structures and algorithms, formal languages and automata), or Foundations of Linguistics (syntax, semantics, phonology, pragmatics). It is possible to document your background knowledge by having taken at least 9 ECTS worth of classes. Documentation of your programming skills. The preferred way is that your transcript of records clearly lists at least 6 ECTS worth of programming classes. Alternatively, you can send in certificates regarding extracurricular programming courses that you have attended or documentation of programming projects that you have completed. English: E.G. PTE Academic: 76 IELTS Academic: 7 Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced TOEFL iBT Home Edition (before 2026): 95 Reading: 24 Listening: 22 Speaking: 25 Writing: 24 TOEFL iBT (before 2026): 95 Reading: 24 Listening: 22 Speaking: 25 Writing: 24 UNIcert® English: UNIcert® III.
The programme runs about 24 months full-time.
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