Bachelor in Cognitive and Brain Sciences

Applications for the Jul 2027 intake close on Mar 1, 2027. Tuition is 39,600 AUD per year.

The Bachelor in Cognitive and Brain Sciences at Macquarie University is for students who are excited by discovery and question the norm. This Bachelor degree is for those who want to learn from world-renowned researchers and study cognitive science, neuroscience, and computation. It takes a few years to complete and helps students build critical-thinking and research skills.

The curriculum includes double degrees, focused and flexible study options, and core zones or units of each degree. Students will learn science communication, statistics, and programming, and have the option to study complementary disciplines or non-science units. The program is taught in English and is available to students who have completed high school.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as research scientists, data analysts, neuroscience specialists, cognitive psychologists, or science writers. They can work in industries such as healthcare, technology, or education, and can be employed by organizations such as research institutes, hospitals, or universities.

Macquarie University in Sydney, founded in 1964, is a large, research-led institution with around 45,000 students, including roughly 10,000 international learners. Located in a dynamic metropolitan region, Macquarie blends modern campus facilities with purpose-built research centres and green spaces. Its broad curriculum covers arts, business, science, engineering and health, and the university emphasises an interdisciplinary approach that encourages critical thinking and practical problem solving.

Academically, Macquarie combines taught degrees with research opportunities and industry-facing placements, so students gain workplace experience alongside theoretical study. Specialist facilities and entrepreneurship hubs support innovation, while career services and employer links in Sydney help students access internships and graduate roles. Small-group tutorials, academic skills workshops and supervised research pathways ensure international students can integrate quickly and build strong academic foundations.

Campus life is culturally diverse and student-focused, with clubs, societies, accommodation choices and wellbeing services that support study-life balance and community integration. Global partnerships and exchange options expand learning beyond Australia and enable collaborative research experiences. Prospective international applicants should check program entry requirements, scholarship options and visa timelines early; Macquarie’s international student advisers offer targeted support for applications, English preparation and transition planning.