Middle European interdisciplinary master's programme in Cognitive Science (MEi:CogSci)

Your steps in the admission procedure depend on whether you have completed your previous degree programme at the University of Vienna or another post-secondary educational institution. 

In the study profile of the master programme Middle European master's programme in Cognitive Science (MEi:CogSci) you can find out which previous degree programmes are eligible. 

 Degree programme with selection procedure

A selection procedure is conducted for admission to this master programme.

  • You can only submit your application for admission to the degree programme once per year, within the application period.  
  • The admission letter is only valid for the winter semester you have applied for and the following summer semester. 
  • 30 study places are available per academic year. The allocation of available study places ensues during the selection procedure. 

Application period academic year 2023/24: from 1 March to 17 April 2023

 Degree programme instructed in English

The language of instruction in this degree programme is English. A proof of German language proficiency is not required.

Additional requirements

English language proficiency at level B2

To be admitted to an English or multilingual master programme at the University of Vienna, you have to provide a proof of English language proficiency. 

To apply for admission to this degree programme, you require a proof of English language proficiency at level B2. 

English curriculum vitae (CV)

Upload your English curriculum vitae in u:space at "Further documents and proofs" as document type "CV".

English letter of motivation

Upload your letter of motivation in u:space at "Further documents and proofs" as document type "Letter of motivation".

The document must be written in English. Please structure your letter of motivation along the following questions. You have to answer all of them and stick to the character limits. Preferably, use the provided form.

Answer the following questions:

  • Your name, academic degree (e.g. B.Sc, MA...), discipline of your degree
  • Why do you want to study cognitive science? (1,000 characters max.)
  • Why do you want to study MEi:CogSci, i.e. why MEi:CogSci rather than any other degree programme in cognitive science? And why MEi:CogSci in Vienna (e.g. refer to research groups, which might be of interest for you)? (1 000 characters max.)
  • What is your central research question, which could lead you through this programme in cognitive science? Describe the phenomenon you want to explore and how it can be studied within cognitive science. Explain how you approach it (methods). What are potential insights or applications of your research? Write an extended abstract using a scientific writing style. Include three references. (1,500-2,000 characters)
  • What is your most memorable experience of working in a team? What was your role? What challenges did you experience in this role and why? How were difficulties resolved? (800 characters max.)
  • How have your past experiences prepared you for studying in the MEi:CogSci programme? (e.g. summer schools, conferences, voluntary work, professional experience, university courses, etc.) In case you have certificates, you may add them to your application. (800 characters max.)
  • Imagine the following. You just graduated from MEi:CogSci – what are the five key competencies, skills, or mindsets that you have acquired during your studies?
  • Imagine that you have just graduated from MEi:CogSci and you are about to apply for a job. What is the job you are applying for? (200 characters max.)
  • Why do you study cognitive science in order to pursue this career? (800 characters max.)

If you have any questions regarding the letter of motivation, please contact meicogsci@univie.ac.at

You can find detailed information regarding the structure, the course contents and any potential info events of the master programme on the Studies Service Center Philosophy's website.

The MEi:CogSci programme coordination strongly encourages prospective students to start the programme in the winter semester.