Cognitive Psychology in Context (M.S.)

First of all, the program is still young — launched just four years ago. As of Fall 2025, we have two graduated cohorts. Most of our students have applied to Ph.D. programs, with about 70% admitted to institutions such as Purdue, Ohio State, Texas A&M, UCLA, Vanderbilt, and the University of Hong Kong. Some of the industry positions secured by our alumni include Program Coordinator at Vanderbilt Medical Center, Research Associate in a neuroimaging lab (neurodevelopmental MRI), Software Developer for an AI-based behavioral research platform, and Clinical Trials Associate at VUMC. 

This program is right for you if… 

• you are interested in human cognition 

• you would like to gain hands-on research experience under the supervision of Vanderbilt’s esteemed faculty 

• you are planning to apply to Ph.D. programs in the future 

• you are unsure whether your future career will be in academia or industry 

• you want to explore different research areas before committing to a specialization 

• you are interested in developing advanced applied skills (e.g., data analytics) for future industry employment 

Thesis vs. Capstone Track 

All students are matched with a research lab at Vanderbilt University and begin working on a project aligned with their interests and lab placement during their first year. By the beginning of the second year, students may choose between two pathways: the research track, which culminates in an M.S. thesis, or the applied track, which culminates in a Capstone project. 

Program Curriculum Flexibility 

The program offers a high degree of flexibility in coursework. Students may take classes outside the official list of required courses to meet their individual goals, with approval from the program director and their principal investigator (PI). 

We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds, interests, and career goals. Students who thrive in the program are curious, motivated, goal-oriented, eager to grow as researchers, and committed to both their coursework and their lab work. Most importantly, we see the strongest program performance and post-graduation success when a student’s interests align closely with their faculty advisor’s research. For this reason, we take great care in making lab placements. 

A unique feature of the program is the opportunity for students to participate in cutting-edge research under the supervision of Vanderbilt’s renowned faculty. Although most host labs are housed within Peabody College, some placements are occasionally made with faculty affiliated with the Vanderbilt University Medical Center or the College of Arts and Science.

The skill set you gain by the end of the program spans multiple domains. Some of the most important learning outcomes include: 

• Cognitive process expertise. 

• Experimental research methods, project planning, and execution. 

• Data management and quantitative methods, including fluency with technical tools and software. 

• Real-world application orientation – the ability to connect cognitive theory and research to everyday performance, learning in media and technology settings, and other applied contexts (e.g., visual cognition, learning in digital environments) relevant to industry roles. 

• Critical thinking and scientific literacy. 

• Analytical, data-driven decision making – applying empirical data from experiments or applied studies to make informed decisions, evaluate trends, and derive actionable insights. 

• Written and oral communication skills, in both academic and professional contexts 

• Interdisciplinary collaboration – bridging cognitive science, neuroscience, technology, education, and applied professional domains. 

Yes. The M.S. in Cognitive Psychology in Context is a STEM-designated program, which allows eligible F-1 students to apply for 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation, plus a 24-month STEM OPT extension—for up to 36 months of post-graduation work authorization in the United States. 

Students may also gain authorized off-campus experience during the program through Curricular Practical Training (CPT), such as internships, applied projects, or external research that are integral to the curriculum. CPT eligibility typically begins after the first academic year. 

For detailed CPT/OPT procedures, forms, and advising, visit Vanderbilt International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS). 

Yes. Students from diverse academic backgrounds—such as computer science, engineering, neuroscience, and linguistics—have thrived in the program. Applicants without a psychology degree should use the Personal Statement to describe how their background aligns with psychology and their goals for graduate study. 

After admission, students consult with the Program Director about research interests and career goals. The Director suggests potential labs, and students interview with 2–5 faculty members. Placements are finalized by the Program Director based on mutual agreement between student and faculty. 

14-16 students. 

The program is typically completed in 18 to 24 months. Students who take 9 credit hours during the summer between their first and second year can finish in 18 months and graduate in December. Most students, however, follow the standard 24-month timeline, beginning their second year in the fall and graduating in May. 

While the program offers some flexibility in coursework, most classes are scheduled during the morning and afternoon, and research lab hours typically occur during the day. As a result, although occasional exceptions may be possible, the program is not well suited for students with full-time weekday employment. 

Full-time enrollment in the program is defined as 9 credit hours per semester. Students wishing to enroll with fewer credits must consult with the Program director and the Graduate School to determine eligibility and implications for timeline, research lab participation, visa status (for international students), and financial aid. 

All first-year students take a cohort-based course, Practicum in Cognitive Psychology in Context, which provides opportunities to connect with peers, develop and discuss project ideas, apply their knowledge through class discussions, and practice research presentations in a supportive, collaborative environment. 

All students in the program are also encouraged to attend a weekly departmental research forum, where they can learn about ongoing research by students and faculty, network with peers from other programs, and engage with professors within the department and across Vanderbilt. 

First-year students take two didactic courses each semester, participate in the cohort-based Practicum in Cognitive Psychology in Context, spend approximately 10–15 hours per week in their research labs, and attend the weekly departmental colloquium on Fridays. 

Second-year students also take two didactic courses each semester while working on their thesis or capstone project. During this time, many apply to Ph.D. programs in the fall or to industry positions in the spring. 

Students may also choose to serve as teaching assistants during either year of the program. This role typically involves attending class sessions, grading assignments, and interacting with students during office hours.