In individual cases, it may be possible to pursue a Ph.D. in Cognitive Science.
In order to pursue this option, as well as submitting a formal application, the prospective student must first and foremost reach agreement with a staff member who will undertake the role of principal supervisor. There are many faculty at UCD who work in areas that fall under Cognitive Science. Interested students are encouraged to contact the programme directors, detailing their research interests, with a view to initiating contact with potential supervisors. (Directors: Fred Cummins and Keith Wilson.) Applicants may also explore the specialization of associated faculty through their individual school web pages. Further information about admissions is provided here.
Progression: Students admitted to the programme will complete 60 credits of taught modules in the first 2 semesters. A formal transfer process is conducted after 18 months, at which the student’s progress and plans are evaluated by an assessment panel. At this stage, a well-fleshed out research plan needs to be in place, as well as the completed taught modules, and the identification of both a principal and a secondary supervisor.
It is also possible to pursue the Ph.D. on a part time basis.