Cognition and Aesthetics (MSc)

The MSc Cognition and Aesthetics at Liverpool Hope University bridges cognitive science, psychology, and the arts to explore how humans perceive, design, and emotionally connect with visual environments, nature, and artefacts. It is ideal for students interested in applying rigorous psychological research to cultural, creative, environmental, and technology-focused sectors.

Curriculum Structure

Students engage with four core modules over the year, developing both theoretical insight and applied research skills.

They begin with Cognition, Aesthetics and Techniques, where they study how our senses integrate information from art, design, music, and multisensory spaces, and learn behavioural and neuroscience tools for experimentation. Then in Cognition, Aesthetics and Project Management, students explore the cognitive underpinnings of preference and decision-making, and also develop applied skills like grant writing, project funding, and stakeholder collaboration (e.g., with cultural or environmental organisations). Simultaneously, Advanced Research Design and Analysis equips them with quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method research competence, including advanced measurement and data analysis (using software such as R). The year culminates in the Cognition and Aesthetics Dissertation, where students conceive, design, and conduct an empirical research project—potentially in real-world settings—finally writing up their thesis and defending it. 

Focus areas (string):
“Multisensory perception; cognitive neuroscience; aesthetic experience; project management; interdisciplinary design; advanced research methods; empirical intervention research”

Learning outcomes (string):
“Deep understanding of how cognition shapes aesthetic experience; ability to design and manage projects in cultural or environmental sectors; advanced mixed-method research skills; ability to conduct and communicate original empirical research”

Professional alignment (accreditation):
While not a BPS “conversion” programme, this MSc is academically grounded in psychology and cognitive science, and strongly linked to research-active areas in the School of Psychology. 

Reputation (employability rankings):
Liverpool Hope University is well regarded for its student-centred teaching and interdisciplinary research; this programme equips graduates for roles in cultural institutions, environmental organisations, creative industries, and further academic study.