Cognitive psychology is the scientific study of mental processes—how people perceive, learn, remember, and think. It forms the foundation of many areas within psychology and intersects with fields like neuroscience, education, computer science, and linguistics.
While cognitive psychology is a fascinating area of study, it is also highly academic in nature. Most careers in this field—whether in research, user experience (UX), data analysis, or higher education—require advanced training, and in many cases, a doctoral degree. However, a master’s in cognitive psychology can be a valuable stepping stone, particularly for students exploring future PhD study or aiming to apply cognitive science in non-clinical careers.
This article offers a realistic look at what it means to pursue a master’s in cognitive psychology. It outlines common degree structures and requirements, explores potential master’s in cognitive psychology careers, and presents a selection of reputable graduate programs. Whether you’re planning to pursue research or exploring applied roles, this guide can help you take your next informed step.
What Is Cognitive Psychology?
Cognitive psychology is the branch of psychology that investigates internal mental processes. This includes how people perceive information, pay attention, remember, solve problems, use language, and make decisions. At its core, cognitive psychology is about understanding how the mind processes information and how those processes shape human behavior.
Cognitive psychology differs from other subfields like clinical psychology or social psychology in that it is less focused on emotional or interpersonal dynamics and more on the underlying mechanisms of thought. For example, a cognitive psychologist might study how working memory influences learning outcomes or how perceptual biases impact decision-making.
The field is deeply rooted in experimental research, often involving controlled lab studies and statistical analysis. Because of its emphasis on scientific methods, cognitive psychology frequently overlaps with neuroscience, linguistics, education, artificial intelligence, and even philosophy.
Students considering a master’s in cognitive psychology should understand that these programs are typically research-driven and are not designed to lead to clinical licensure. Instead, they prepare students for roles in academic research, user experience design, educational testing, and other non-clinical areas—or to continue on to a PhD.
What to Know About Earning a Master’s in Cognitive Psychology
Earning a master’s in cognitive psychology is often a stepping stone for students pursuing careers in research, academia, or applied fields that rely on a deep understanding of human cognition. These programs are typically research-focused and designed to strengthen students’ skills in experimental design, statistical analysis, and psychological theory.
Degree Types and Program Structures
Cognitive psychology master’s programs generally fall into two categories:
- Terminal master’s programs, which are designed to provide students with a standalone graduate credential. These are often pursued by individuals interested in non-clinical careers in fields like education, UX design, or organizational research.
- Master’s en route to a PhD, which are embedded in doctoral tracks. In these cases, students typically complete the master’s as part of a longer PhD program, often with no option to exit with just the master’s degree.
It’s also worth noting that not all programs use the exact title “Master’s in Cognitive Psychology.” Some are labeled as Experimental Psychology, Psychological Science, or Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences, but still offer a concentration or emphasis in cognitive topics.
A master’s in cognitive psychology may appeal to students who want to work in applied research or tech settings, or those planning to pursue a doctorate. These programs differ in important ways from degrees in clinical or counseling psychology. To better understand how cognitive psychology compares to other academic pathways, explore our guide to types of psychology master’s degrees.
Common Coursework and Requirements
While specific curricula vary, most programs require courses in:
- Cognitive psychology theory and methodology
- Statistics and research methods
- Neuroscience or biological bases of behavior
- Electives in areas like language, memory, or perception
Many programs also require students to complete a thesis based on original research. This component is particularly important for students planning to apply to PhD programs later, as it provides critical experience in designing studies, collecting data, and presenting findings.
Admissions Expectations
Typical master’s in cognitive psychology requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree, often in psychology or a related field
- Strong academic performance, especially in research-oriented courses
- Letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a CV or résumé
- For research-intensive programs, prior experience in a psychology lab is often helpful—or even expected
Some programs may also request GRE scores, though many have moved away from requiring them in recent years.
Criteria for Evaluating Programs
Choosing a master’s in cognitive psychology program involves more than comparing tuition costs or university rankings. Because these programs often lead to academic or research-focused careers, it’s essential to evaluate each one based on its structure, resources, and alignment with your goals.
Terminal vs. Doctoral Track Programs
Some master’s programs are designed as terminal degrees, meaning they are intended to be the final credential before entering the workforce. Others function as a stepping stone to a PhD, either as part of a combined track or as preparation for future doctoral study. It’s important to clarify a program’s intent before applying.
Research Opportunities and Faculty Expertise
Cognitive psychology is inherently research-driven, so opportunities for hands-on research are a major factor in program quality. Consider:
- Whether faculty are actively engaged in research aligned with your interests
- Availability of labs, projects, or assistantships
- Whether the program culminates in a thesis or capstone experience
Reading faculty bios and recent publications can help you assess fit and identify potential mentors.
Program Structure and Flexibility
Evaluate how the program is structured in terms of:
- Full-time vs. part-time formats
- Online or hybrid delivery (if applicable)
- Required vs. elective courses
- Availability of interdisciplinary coursework in areas like neuroscience, linguistics, or computer science
Programs with a strong methodological core—including statistics, experimental design, and programming—can be especially valuable for students pursuing research-intensive roles.
Funding and Support
While master’s students typically have fewer funding options than PhD candidates, some programs may offer teaching assistantships, research positions, or institutional scholarships. Investigate:
- Opportunities for financial aid
- Career services or alumni networks
- Support for conference travel or publication
Taking time to assess these elements can help you choose a program that not only meets academic standards but also supports your long-term professional development.
Noteworthy Master’s Programs in Cognitive Psychology or Related Fields
Because standalone master’s in cognitive psychology programs are relatively rare, many students interested in this field explore related degrees that offer strong cognitive science components. These programs often fall under broader psychology or psychological sciences umbrellas but include coursework, research opportunities, and faculty expertise focused on cognitive psychology. Below is a selection of U.S.-based programs that are known for their emphasis on cognitive psychology or closely related areas.
Ball State University
Master of Arts in Psychological Science
Program Basics
- Degree: Master of Arts in Psychological Science
- Format: On-campus
- Length: Two years
- Total Credits: 36 (30 required, 6 elective)
- Start Term: Fall (August)
- GRE Requirement: Not required
- Admission Requirements: Minimum 3.0 GPA; professional statement addressing program fit, research and diversity experience, and faculty match; curriculum vitae; letters of recommendation; relevant undergraduate coursework in research methods and statistics
- Accelerated Master’s Option: Available for undergraduate students at Ball State
- Graduate Assistantships: Available
Program Highlights
Ball State’s Master of Arts in Psychological Science provides a customizable path for students preparing for doctoral study or research-based careers. The program offers extensive training in research methods and statistics, small class sizes, and opportunities to tailor the degree with electives, a second master’s in quantitative psychology or counseling, or a certificate in an area of interest. Students benefit from hands-on research, faculty mentorship, and professional development, all in an environment that does not require GRE scores for admission.
About the University
Ball State University is a public research institution in Muncie, Indiana, known for its strong commitment to immersive learning, student-centered teaching, and practical, career-focused education.
Illinois State University
Master’s Degree, Cognitive and Experimental Psychology
Program Basics
- Degree: Master’s in Psychology – Cognitive and Experimental Psychology
- Format: On-campus
- Length: Two years (full-time enrollment)
- GRE Requirement: Not required; may be submitted to establish math proficiency
- Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA in last 60 undergraduate hours or 9 graduate hours; curriculum vitae or resume; writing sample (5–15 pages); personal statement; three letters of recommendation
- Prerequisites: 21 hours of undergraduate psychology coursework (for non-psychology majors), including general psychology, experimental/research methods, and statistics; math proficiency demonstrated through coursework or GRE
- Graduate Assistantships: Available with tuition waivers and stipends
Program Highlights
The Cognitive and Experimental Psychology sequence at Illinois State University focuses on behavioral, neuroscience, and cognitive science research areas. Designed to build a strong foundation in basic psychological research and quantitative methods, the program prepares students for advanced graduate study or research-related careers. Students benefit from personalized mentorship, competitive admission, and participation in the department’s active colloquium series featuring guest researchers from around the world.
About the University
Illinois State University, located in Normal, Illinois, is known for its student-centered culture, strong academic programs, and emphasis on research and public service. As the state’s first public university, ISU maintains a tradition of excellence in teaching and scholarship.
Missouri State University
Master’s in Psychology, Experimental Option
Program Basics
- Degree: Master’s in Psychology – Experimental Psychology Option
- Format: On-campus, full-time only
- Length: Two years (four semesters)
- Total Credits: 47 semester hours
- Start Term: Fall only
- Admission Requirements: Admission requires full-time enrollment; students must maintain a 3.25 GPA and meet periodic evaluation benchmarks
- Culminating Experience: Thesis or internship required, along with a comprehensive examination
- Graduate Assistantships: Available
- Curriculum: Includes core courses in research methods, statistics, ethics, and social psychology; students choose from a range of electives to tailor their focus
Program Highlights
Missouri State University’s Experimental Psychology master’s program is structured around an apprenticeship model, allowing students to conduct research closely with faculty mentors. The program provides a strong foundation in psychological theory, research design, and statistical analysis, making it an ideal stepping stone for doctoral study or research-centered careers. Students can customize their coursework to focus on areas such as cognitive neuroscience, developmental science, or quantitative methods, and complete either a thesis or an internship as a capstone experience.
About the University
Missouri State University, located in Springfield, is a public institution recognized for its commitment to student success, experiential learning, and community engagement. It offers a wide range of academic and professional programs grounded in practical application.
New Mexico State University
M.A. in Psychology, Cognitive Psychology Emphasis
Program Basics
- Degree: Master of Arts in Psychology (General Experimental Psychology with emphasis options)
- Format: On-campus
- Length: Typically 2–3 years
- Total Credits: Minimum of 36 credit hours
- Thesis Requirement: Required (no non-thesis option)
- Emphasis Areas: Cognitive Psychology, Engineering Psychology, Social Psychology
- Core Coursework: Includes courses in cognitive psychology, social psychology, or engineering psychology, as well as quantitative methods and computer methodology
- Research Training: First-year research project and second-year thesis required
- Practical Experience: Not required
Program Highlights
New Mexico State University’s M.A. program in Psychology offers a strong foundation in general experimental psychology, with opportunities to specialize in cognitive, social, or engineering psychology. The cognitive psychology emphasis prepares students to explore areas such as attention, perception, memory, reasoning, and human-computer interaction. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with fields like engineering and kinesiology, hands-on research, and mentorship that supports diverse career paths. Many graduates go on to pursue PhDs or work in academic, industry, or government roles.
About the University
New Mexico State University is a public land-grant research university in Las Cruces, recognized for its commitment to community engagement, research, and academic diversity. The university supports a collaborative academic environment and emphasizes real-world applications of research.
University of Nebraska Omaha
MA in Cognitive Psychology
Program Basics
- Degree: Master of Arts in Cognitive Psychology
- Format: On-campus
- Total Credits: 30 credit hours
- Application Deadline: January 10
- GRE Requirement: Optional
- Admission Requirements: Score of 8.00 on department’s admission index; at least two letters of recommendation from undergraduate psychology professors; strong documentation of research aptitude
- Curriculum: Includes six required proseminars and at least two additional cognitive-focused electives
Program Highlights
The MA in Cognitive Psychology at the University of Nebraska Omaha emphasizes foundational knowledge and research training in areas such as memory, perception, decision-making, and language processing. Students complete a rigorous set of proseminars alongside electives in specialized cognitive topics. Designed to prepare graduates for doctoral study or applied research roles, the program equips students with the analytical and methodological skills needed to excel in academic, government, or industry settings.
About the University
The University of Nebraska Omaha is a metropolitan university known for its strong community partnerships and focus on experiential learning. Located in Nebraska’s largest city, UNO offers students access to a wide range of research, career, and cultural opportunities.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Master’s in Psychology, Cognitive Psychology Emphasis
Program Basics
- Degree: Master of Arts in Psychology
- Format: On-campus
- Focus Areas: General Experimental Psychology with opportunities to specialize in cognitive, developmental, social, quantitative, biological, and psychopathology
- Culminating Experience: Research-based thesis
- Research Resources: Includes ERP system, remote eye-tracking, and access to a 3T MRI scanner
- Program Structure: Terminal master’s track designed for students not continuing directly to a Ph.D. at UNCG
Program Highlights
UNC Greensboro’s Master’s in Psychology offers a personalized and research-intensive experience through its general experimental track. Students collaborate closely with faculty in areas like cognitive and developmental psychology while gaining hands-on experience in labs equipped with advanced neuroimaging and eye-tracking tools. With small class sizes and individualized mentorship, the program prepares graduates for Ph.D. programs or roles in research, industry, or non-profits.
About the University
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a public research university known for its inclusive academic community and strong focus on student success. Located in a vibrant and diverse city, UNCG offers robust research opportunities and interdisciplinary collaboration.
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Masters of Science in Psychology (Cognitive and Affective emphasis)
Program Basics
- Degree: Master of Science in Psychology (Cognitive and Affective Emphasis)
- Format: On-campus
- Total Credits: 30 credits required (15 core, 9 seminar, 6 thesis)
- Core Coursework: Includes behavioral statistics, multivariate methods, and research design
- Thesis Requirement: Yes (6 credits)
- Electives: Selected from a rotating list of seminars based on faculty expertise; typically one offered per semester
- Quantitative Training: Strong emphasis, with exposure to multivariate techniques and research methodology
Program Highlights
The MS in Psychology at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh offers a cognitive and affective emphasis while training students to conduct research across diverse psychological domains. With a focus on advanced quantitative and methodological skills, students engage in rigorous coursework and seminars on rotating topics such as cognitive neuroscience, applied cognition, and emotion. The program culminates in a research thesis and prepares graduates for both doctoral programs and applied research careers.
About the University
The University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh is part of the UW System and is known for its commitment to academic excellence, applied learning, and community engagement. Located in northeastern Wisconsin, the university emphasizes accessible education and hands-on research experiences.
Western Kentucky University
M.S. in Psychology, Psychological Science Concentration
Program Basics
- Degree: Master of Science in Psychology – Psychological Science Concentration
- Format: On-campus
- Length: Two years
- Concentration: Psychological Science
- Program Type: Research-focused mentorship model
- Career Pathways: Prepares students for Ph.D. programs or research-based roles in science, government, and business
- Joint Degree Option: JUMP (Joint Undergraduate Master’s Program) available for qualified students
Program Highlights
Western Kentucky University’s Psychological Science concentration within the M.S. in Psychology is designed as a two-year, research-intensive program that emphasizes mentorship and quantitative skill development. Students receive hands-on research training across areas such as cognition, neuroscience, perception, aging, and child development. The program supports both academic and applied career goals, with graduates pursuing doctoral study or entering research roles in a variety of professional settings.
About the University
Western Kentucky University, located in Bowling Green, is known for its student-centered approach and strong programs in science and applied research. The university offers a collaborative academic environment with a focus on experiential learning and career readiness.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
Selecting a master’s program in cognitive psychology—or a closely related area—requires careful consideration of your academic interests, professional goals, and long-term plans. Because many programs are designed as stepping stones to doctoral study, it’s especially important to ensure that the structure and focus of the degree align with your needs.
- Clarify Your Goals Early
Are you planning to pursue a PhD, or are you seeking a terminal degree that opens up specific non-academic roles? Your answer will help determine whether a research-intensive program or a more applied curriculum is the better fit. - Evaluate the Faculty’s Research Areas
Cognitive psychology is a broad field. Look for faculty whose research aligns with your interests—such as memory, attention, language, or decision-making. Reviewing recent publications and lab websites can give you a strong sense of fit. - Understand the Program’s Structure
Consider whether the program requires a thesis, offers practicum opportunities, or allows for electives in areas like neuroscience or data science. Thesis-based programs are especially important if you’re planning to apply to a PhD program. - Consider Format and Flexibility
Some programs are fully in-person, while others may offer hybrid or online options. Be sure the program’s delivery method supports your schedule and learning style. - Investigate Funding Opportunities
While master’s programs often have fewer funding options than doctoral programs, some offer research assistantships, tuition waivers, or competitive scholarships. Ask what financial support may be available. - Talk to Current Students or Alumni
Whenever possible, reach out to people who have completed or are currently enrolled in the program. They can provide candid insights about academic rigor, mentorship, and post-graduation outcomes.
Career Pathways After a Master’s in Cognitive Psychology
While cognitive psychology master’s programs are not designed to lead directly to clinical licensure, they open the door to a range of interesting career options. Graduates often work in research labs, educational settings, UX design, data analysis, or behavioral science roles. Many use the degree as a stepping stone to PhD programs in psychology, neuroscience, or human-computer interaction.
These careers emphasize analytical thinking and research skills over direct counseling or therapy. If you’re curious how cognitive psychology fits into the broader range of psychology-related professions, you can explore other specializations on our list of types of psychologists.
Common Fields and Job Titles
Graduates with a master’s degree in cognitive psychology may find roles such as:
- User Experience (UX) Researcher – Applying cognitive principles to study how people interact with digital interfaces and improve user-centered design.
- Research Associate or Lab Manager – Supporting or leading experiments in academic, nonprofit, or corporate research settings.
- Behavioral Data Analyst – Interpreting human behavior data for organizations in healthcare, tech, marketing, or education.
- Instructional Designer or Learning Specialist – Designing educational tools and programs informed by cognitive science principles.
- Community College Instructor – Teaching introductory or general psychology courses (often with additional teaching credentials or experience).
- Human Factors Specialist – Helping optimize systems, products, or environments for human use based on cognitive capabilities and limitations.
Some graduates also pursue roles in education, government, or nonprofit sectors that require strong research skills, such as program evaluation or policy analysis.
When a PhD May Be Necessary
While a master’s degree provides valuable training and job preparation, many cognitive psychology careers—especially in academia or high-level research—ultimately require a PhD. Students interested in becoming professors, publishing original research, or working as lead scientists in labs will likely need to pursue further graduate study.
That said, for students interested in applied roles—particularly in UX, organizational development, or behavioral insights—a master’s in cognitive psychology can serve as a solid and competitive credential.
Salary Expectations and Earning Potential
Because cognitive psychology is a research-oriented field that overlaps with several industries, salaries can vary widely depending on the role, sector, and level of education. While some roles may be accessible with a master’s degree, it’s important to understand that higher-paying opportunities are often tied to doctoral-level credentials or several years of experience. The following roles reflect career paths where cognitive psychology training is often applicable:
- User Experience (UX) Researchers and other behavioral researchers may fall under the category of Market Research Analysts, who earned a median annual wage of $74,680 in 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
- Postsecondary psychology teachers, which may include those with a master’s degree in certain institutions, earned a median salary of $82,140 as of 2023, according to the BLS.
- Survey Researchers, who design and analyze surveys often involving human behavior, had a median wage of $60,960 in 2023, according to the BLS.
- Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, a role that may sometimes overlap with cognitive psychology applications in the workplace, earned a much higher median salary of $147,420, according to the BLS. .
Factors That Affect Salary
- Educational level: Many higher-paying psychology-related jobs still prefer or require a doctorate.
- Industry: Tech companies and research firms often offer higher salaries than nonprofit or educational institutions.
- Experience and skills: Proficiency in data analysis, experimental design, and UX research tools can enhance earning potential in applied roles.
While a master’s in cognitive psychology salary can vary, students should consider long-term earning potential alongside personal goals and career satisfaction. In many cases, a master’s degree serves as a valuable stepping stone toward further academic achievement or industry specialization.
FAQ: Master’s in Cognitive Psychology
Can you become a cognitive psychologist with a master’s?
Most cognitive psychologists hold a doctoral degree (typically a PhD) because the field is research-intensive and academic in nature. A master’s degree may lead to related roles in research support, education, or applied fields like UX or data analysis, but it usually does not qualify someone to work independently as a cognitive psychologist. Licensure is generally not required for non-clinical cognitive psychology careers.
What jobs can you do with just a master’s?
Graduates with a master’s in cognitive psychology may find opportunities as research assistants, data analysts, user experience researchers, instructional designers, or educational consultants. While these roles often don’t carry the title “cognitive psychologist,” they allow graduates to apply their expertise in learning, perception, and memory in practical settings.
(See the section on career pathways for more details.)
Are online programs available?
Fully online master’s programs specifically in cognitive psychology are rare. However, some universities offer related online degrees—such as general psychology programs with cognitive psychology concentrations or applied psychology degrees with cognitive coursework. Hybrid options may also be available, combining online coursework with on-campus research or lab components.
What’s the difference between this and general psychology degrees?
Cognitive psychology focuses specifically on internal mental processes such as memory, problem-solving, and perception. General psychology programs offer broader coverage of psychological topics, which may include cognitive psychology alongside clinical, social, developmental, or biological subfields. If your interest lies specifically in how the mind processes information, a cognitive psychology–focused program offers more specialized training.
Next Steps in Your Educational Journey
If you’re drawn to questions about how we think, learn, remember, and make decisions, pursuing a master’s in cognitive psychology may be a meaningful step toward your academic and professional goals. As you consider this path, take time to reflect on what you hope to achieve—whether that’s preparing for a doctoral program, entering a research or tech-related field, or simply deepening your understanding of the human mind.
Start by researching programs that align with your interests and strengths. Look closely at faculty research areas, program structures, and whether the degree is terminal or designed to feed into a PhD. Reach out to admissions offices or current students to get a feel for the academic environment and expectations.
Finally, consider whether a master’s will meet your goals or whether a doctoral degree might ultimately be necessary. This guide can help you ask the right questions and identify programs that are a good fit, but your next step should be guided by a clear understanding of where you want to go—and what kind of learning experience will help you get there.
