MSc Evolution of Language and Cognition

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc Evolution of Language and Cognition program from the University of Edinburgh possess a unique blend of interdisciplinary knowledge and research skills that open doors to diverse career opportunities.  

1. Research Scientist: Many graduates pursue research careers in academia, research institutes, or industry, investigating fundamental questions related to the evolution of language, cognition, and communication. They may work on projects involving genetics, neuroscience, linguistics, anthropology, or computational modeling.

2. Academic Lecturer or Professor: Some graduates enter academia as lecturers or professors, teaching courses in evolutionary psychology, cognitive science, linguistics, or anthropology. They contribute to the academic community through research publications and mentorship of students.

3. Language and Communication Specialist: Graduates may work as language therapists, speech pathologists, or communication specialists, applying their understanding of language evolution to develop interventions for individuals with language disorders or communication difficulties.

4. Science Communicator: With strong communication skills and scientific expertise, graduates can pursue careers as science writers, journalists, or media producers, translating complex research findings into accessible content for the public, policymakers, and stakeholders.

5. Policy Analyst: Some graduates work as policy analysts or consultants, leveraging their knowledge of evolutionary science to inform policies related to education, healthcare, language preservation, and biodiversity conservation.

6. Cognitive Ethologist: Graduates interested in animal behavior and cognition may pursue careers as cognitive ethologists, studying cognitive abilities and communication systems in non-human species. They contribute to conservation efforts and animal welfare through their research.

7. Data Analyst or Computational Linguist: Graduates with quantitative skills may work as data analysts, using computational techniques to analyze large datasets related to language evolution and cognitive development. They may also work in artificial intelligence and machine learning applications.

8. Education and Outreach Coordinator: Some graduates work in educational institutions, museums, or non-profit organizations, developing educational programs and outreach initiatives that highlight the importance of evolutionary science in understanding human nature and culture.

9. Consultant in Human-Animal Interaction: Graduates interested in human-animal interaction may work as consultants for zoos, wildlife reserves, or therapeutic programs, applying their knowledge of evolutionary psychology and communication to enhance interactions between humans and animals.

10. Further Study and Specialization: The MSc provides a solid foundation for further study at the doctoral level in fields such as evolutionary biology, cognitive science, linguistics, or anthropology.