MA Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science

What is it to have a mind? Are mental properties reducible to neural properties? Could a computer ever truly think? Can we know what it is like to be a bat?

On this programme you will explore issues in philosophy of mind and the cognitive sciences, such as the nature of intentionality, physicalism, rationality and interpretation, computation, perception, and consciousness.

You will be taught by one the UK’s largest and most vibrant communities of philosophers of mind and cognition, who pursue original research on a wide range of topics giving you expert supervision for your dissertation.

You will also have the option to pursue modules in the Departments of Psychology or Computer Science. This programme is aimed at graduates with a background in philosophy, psychology, linguistics, neuroscience, computer science, or mathematics. It can also be used as a route into PhD research.

Employability

Your degree will provide excellent preparation for your future career, but this can also be enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University and the College of Arts and Law.

The University's Careers Network provides expert guidance and activities especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals. The College of Arts and Law also has a dedicated careers and employability team who offer tailored advice and a programme of College-specific careers events.

You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:

  • Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
  • Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
  • Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences, including bespoke events for postgraduates in the College of Arts and Law
  • Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV
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Modules

  • Research Skills and Methods
  • Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science
  • Philosophy and Mental Health
  • Bioethics
  • Epistemology
  • Ethics and Global Ethics
  • God, Freedom and the Meaning of Life
  • Human Rights
  • Metaphysics
  • Topics in Global Justice
  • Autumn term
  • BICN-Fundamentals in Brain Imaging Methods
  • Design and Analysis 1
  • Introduction to Computational Methods
  • Introduction to Neuroscientific Methods
  • Matlab Programming
  • Spring term
  • Advanced Brain Imaging in Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Advanced Computational Methods
  • Application of Electrophysiological Approaches in Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Design and Analysis 2
  • Mind, Brain, and Models
  • Use our magical AI system, to check your admission chances for this course.
    £20,160 Per Year

    International student tuition fee

    1 Year

    Duration

    Sep 2025

    Start Month

    Aug 2025

    Application Deadline

    Upcoming Intakes

    • September 2025
    • September 2026

    Mode of Study

    • Full Time