Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience – MSc
The Master’s programme in Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience* aims to provide students with specialised knowledge of the relationship between the brain and nervous system and cognitive functions such as thinking, memory, perception, decision-making, and other related processes. Students are introduced to the latest developments in the fields of Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience and gain the ability to apply their knowledge in research projects, further academic study, or professional roles.
Key benefits of the programme
Development of practical skills in advanced research techniques, including EEG, fMRI and eye-tracking
Training in statistical analysis, research design and scientific evaluation of data within neuroscientific contexts
Active participation in research projects and research-related activities
Interdisciplinary collaboration with academics and researchers from the fields of Psychology, Computing and Health Sciences
Practical training opportunities within relevant professional environments
UNIVERSITY
Keele University
DURATION IN YEARS
1,5 Years (FT)
Language
English / Greek
Study at Keele Greece
Programme Description
The MSc in Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience aims to promote and develop an understanding of the advantages and limitations of various research methods and data formats, along with evaluating their suitability. Particular emphasis is placed on developing the ability to formulate research questions and testable hypotheses, and on designing appropriate research studies using relevant data collection methods, in accordance with the ethical principles and research governance of the British Psychological Society.
Furthermore, the program provides knowledge on quantitative research methods and data analysis techniques, both at a general level and specifically applied to the field, while offering opportunities for students’ active involvement in advanced research. Finally, it aims to enhance and develop skills in written and oral communication, independent learning, as well as critical thinking, reflection, and evaluation.
The postgraduate program is taught through a multidimensional and dynamic learning framework that combines lectures, seminars, group discussions, laboratory and practical activities, as well as individual supervision. Full-time and part-time students jointly participate in all mandatory teaching sessions, while simultaneously being encouraged to engage in asynchronous online activities and independent study. Classroom teaching is the main axis, offering guided learning and practical experience in designing, critically evaluating, analyzing, and interpreting research data, through a combination of instruction, feedback, and active participation.
At the same time, individual supervision, particularly within the framework of the Dissertation and research internships, allows for personalized support and collaboration with broader research groups. Students cultivate skills through collaborative learning, active listening, and exchanging ideas, while gaining experience in both theory and applied research, such as in the “Advanced Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience Theory and Techniques” course. The program’s philosophy focuses on developing independent and critical thinking, enhancing students’ ability to flexibly apply knowledge, collaborate effectively, and manage their time, ultimately leading to the completion of a comprehensive and independent Dissertation.
MODULES PER SEMESTER
Semester 1
- Applied Psychological Research Methods
This module will develop a critical understanding of the different quantitative and qualitative philosophical approaches to understanding the world (e.g., social constructivism, semantics, frequentist, and Bayesian approaches). Students will be introduced to and guided through the entire research process, from applying an appropriate research method to address a psychological question, to handling, extracting, and analyzing data, and finally, interpreting and disseminating findings. - Advanced Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience Theory and Techniques
This module will develop students’ knowledge and practical skills related to advanced theoretical and methodological approaches in cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience. This involves behavioral, computational, neuroimaging, and neuropsychological approaches (e.g., patients) and interventions (e.g., brain stimulation). Students will gain an advanced understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, while also acquiring detailed practical knowledge on how to use techniques, tools, and software for data collection and analysis from each research approach. This will enable students to develop an appropriate research proposal designed to answer a specific research question in the fields of cognitive psychology and/or cognitive neuroscience. - Advanced Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience Theory and Techniques
This module will develop students’ knowledge and practical skills related to advanced theoretical and methodological approaches in cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience. This involves behavioral, computational, neuroimaging, and neuropsychological approaches (e.g., patients) and interventions (e.g., brain stimulation). Students will gain an advanced understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, while also acquiring detailed practical knowledge on how to use techniques, tools, and software for data collection and analysis from each research approach. This will enable students to develop an appropriate research proposal designed to answer a specific research question in the fields of cognitive psychology and/or cognitive neuroscience.
Semester 2
- Frontiers in Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience
This module aims to broaden students’ knowledge and understanding of core concepts and research in cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience. They will develop a critical awareness of current issues and new data in this field of psychological and neuroscientific research and practice. To this end, they will participate in “journal club” style discussions, where students will discuss a variety of cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience topics with peers and expert researchers in these fields. This will provide the opportunity to develop an understanding of how cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience can intersect with applied fields, such as clinical neuropsychology.
Semester 1 to 3
- Professional Practice in Psychology
The aim of the module is to provide students with the opportunity to gain experience both in an applied setting relevant to their specialization and in an advanced research environment by collaborating with an experienced research mentor. Students will be supported to apply for and secure a placement, including drafting CVs. The module is designed to help students:
– gain confidence in an applied environment.
– develop their organizational and professional interpersonal skills.
– understand how their skills and expertise can be utilized in practice.
– actively reflect on their future aspirations. - Applied Research Dissertation
The module aims to enable students to design, conduct, and present an empirical study in psychology, applying the appropriate design skills developed in the corresponding modules, as well as the analytical skills developed in data analysis modules, to present, interpret, and discuss the findings. Furthermore, it enables students to draft and submit an application for the ethical approval of a research project.
The dissertation will be carried out through collaboration between the students and their personal supervisor, in appropriately scheduled meetings (approximately 16 hours over the year). They will submit an application for ethics approval of the research design and, once obtained, they will conduct, analyze, and present an appropriate empirical study in a field of psychology that interests them.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the programme may pursue careers as:
Clinical and diagnostic centers
Research institutions and universities
Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies
Health technology and data analysis companies
Organizations active in education and health policy
Admission Requirements
Supporting Documents
• Degree in Psychology (or related scientific fields e.g. Neuroscience, Data Science, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence) with a grade of at least “Very Good” (upper second-class)
• A good understanding of quantitative research methodology.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Letters of Recommendation
• Copy of Identity Card
• Passport photos
• Keele Greece Enrolment Application
Candidates with a professional background (e.g., in a clinical or cognitive setting) are encouraged to apply.
The evaluation of the supporting documents is complemented by a personal interview with the candidates.
The programme of study has been submitted to the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education (HAHE) and, subject to approval, is expected to launch in the academic year 2026-2027.