Behavioural and Cognitive Neurosciences (Research)
How does the brain give rise to behaviour, emotion, and cognition? What happens when neural systems malfunction — and how can we intervene? Can we connect the dots from molecules to behavior to minds?
What to expect from the Master's programme in BCN
✔ Study the brain from molecules to behaviour to mind across three research tracks
✔ Benefit from an interdisciplinary programme taught by experts from three faculties
✔ Work in small cohorts with a strong academic and social support network
✔ Shape your own path: specialise deeply or explore across neuroscience fields
The research master Behavioural and Cognitive Neurosciences (BCN) at the University of Groningen is an international programme that trains you to become an independent neuroscientist. Combining interdisciplinary breadth with deep specialisation, this two-year MSc offers you the freedom to build your own scientific profile. Whether you want to zoom in on molecular mechanisms, understand cognition and modelling, explore behavioural and physiological processes — or move from one to the other.
The BCN programme is organised around three distinct tracks:
- B-track (Behavioural Neurosciences) focuses on how neurobiology, physiology and development shape behaviour in humans and animals.
- C-track (Cognitive Neuroscience & Modelling) centres on brain function, cognition, and neuropsychiatric disorders, using tools like fMRI, EEG and computational models.
- N-track (Molecular & Clinical Neurosciences) explores molecular and cellular neuroscience to advance our understanding and treatment of neurological diseases.
Applicants have to prove their English language skills either by an internationally recognized language test or upon previous studies. Usually English language skills can be proved by the following documents:
- TOEFL iBT*
- IELTS Academic
- A Cambridge English qualification
- Higher education degree completed in English
- Secondary education completed in English in a country or school qualification accepted by the university
- An English subject and grade on your secondary school leaving certificate that meet the university’s requirements
- Other
Important: Accepted methods and minimum results depend on study programme and the country where you completed your education. Check the official requirements for your chosen study programme.
*Use the Kastu promo code LTU1000102 when registering for TOEFL iBT and receive a 5% discount.
A Bachelor's degree in the Life Sciences, (Molecular) Biology, Medicine, Artificial Intelligence, Psychology or related programmes. The Admissions Board determines whether the content of the previous degree programme meets the admission requirements.
The BCN research master is selective. Selection will be based on academic performance, motivation, and extracurricular activities.
Curriculum Vitae
Two academic letters of reference (for non-EU applicants) or provide contact details of two referees in the application form (for EU applicants)
As a graduate of this programme, you can work as a researcher, both in the academic world and other fields. Because of their multi-disciplinary training, graduates of this degree positively distinguish themselves: you can easily grasp the bigger picture and are able to familiarise yourself with new fields and methodologies quickly.
