PhD Cognitive Science at Brown University

Programme overview

PhD preparing students for careers as scientists and teachers in academic or applied settings. Programs of study are individualized, guided by a research advisor and graduate committee. Students choose between the Cognitive Science and Psychology PhDs during the first year; no terminal master's is admitted.

Faculty: The Graduate School | Department: Cognitive and Psychological Sciences | Duration: Funding guaranteed for five years | Intake: Fall; application deadline November 15, 2026 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Providence, RI, United States

What you will study

First-year research project, three core courses, two quantitative courses, methodological proficiency, three specialization courses, four semesters of teaching assistantship, a preliminary exam paper, dissertation proposal and dissertation with oral presentation.

Career pathways

Scientists and teachers in academic or applied settings.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

PhD in Cognitive Science (programme-specific): GRE General required; GRE Subject not required. Writing sample and personal statement required. Application deadline November 15, 2026.

USD 74,568 a year (2026-27). Doctoral tuition rate for all PhD students, 2026-27 (Fall $37,284 + Spring $37,284). Tuition only; excludes required fees and health insurance. Incoming doctoral students receive guaranteed funding that includes tuition remission. Source

Applications to MFA and doctoral programmes are submitted online through the Graduate School application; the non-refundable application fee is $75. Many programmes have a January 1 deadline, with decisions four to eight weeks after the deadline; deadlines are set by each programme.

Apply through the official page: https://graduateprograms.brown.edu/

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