Master (MSc) in Cognitive Systems
Open University of Cyprus · Nicosia, Cyprus
Joint degree by: Open University of Cyprus, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences and University of Cyprus, Department of Psychology and Department of Computer Science . Since the inception of the computing paradigm, the prevalent metaphor for a computer has been that of a multi-purpose tool, as exemplified by the use of “command lines” and “desktops” at the interface between humans and computers. The unparalleled prevalence of computing-enabled devices in our everyday lives, and the widespread access to information over the Web, suggests a more apt metaphor for a modern computer, that of an assistant. Humans no longer use, but rather collaborate with their devices to solve a cognitive task, with each party learning and adapting to the capabilities of the other. Communication and decision-making happens at a level that is transparent to, and cognitively-compatible with, human abilities and limitations. One no longer speaks of human-computer interaction, but of human-computer symbiosis. To teach the new paradigm of cognitive computing, the M.Sc. Program in Cognitive Systems brings together two main scientific areas: Cognitive Psychology , and Artificial Intelligence in Computer Science . Aiming, on the one hand, for the prospective students to understand the basis for human cognition, the Program is strongly influenced by Cognitive Psychology and includes learning modules that explore the fundamentals of perception, learning, mental representation, and reasoning in humans. Aiming, on the other hand, for the prospective students to be able to design cognitive systems, the Program places its emphasis on the investigation of computational methods and tools for understanding and designing cognitive systems, and includes learning modules from Connectionist and Symbolic Artificial Intelligence, from Machine Learning, and learning modules on recent developments in Cognitive Computing.
Key facts
- €5,400 total (€450 per 10-ECTS module; Master Thesis €1,350)
- No separate non-EU rate published on the official programme page
- 2026-08-18
- 2 years
- English
- Distance
- Academic year 2026/2027 — cohorts begin early September 2026 (first Group Advisory Meeting); modules scheduled per OUC academic calendar
- Fall intake (once per year): applications 13 July - 18 August 2026; OUC may open additional spring application periods for some programmes when announced
Language requirements
Programme taught in English. OUC English language requirements apply (minimum IELTS 5.5 or equivalent certificate submitted with application).
Admission requirements
Bachelor's degree from a recognised institution (psychology, computer science, AI, cognitive science or related); English proficiency (IELTS 5.5+ or equivalent); computer competency
Required documents
Identity card (front & back) or passport; Bachelor's degree certificate (or proof of pending degree); English language certificate if the programme is taught in English; Greek Proficiency Certification B2+ if Greek-taught and Greek is not the applicant's mother tongue; CV/computer-competency statements where required; application submitted online via https://admissions.ouc.ac.cy
Application deadlines
2026-08-18
Programme overview
- Master of Science (MSc) — Magister Scientiae (joint degree)
- 2 years
- English
- Distance
- Both
- Cyprus
- Joint degree: Open University of Cyprus + partner university — Cognitive Systems programme (COS)
Official university
What will it actually cost?
| EU & Non-EU | Tuition | Living | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| EU & Non-EU | Fee not published | — | needs the fee |
Helpful resources
- Full admission requirements, deadlines, and scholarships are always most accurate on the official programme page.
- Estimate living costs in Nicosia on Numbeo ↗.
- Check work rights and post-study visa options on your destination country's official immigration site before applying.