Applied Neurosciences in Sports and Exercise
The Master of Science in Applied Neurosciences in Sports and Exercise is an interdisciplinary graduate program offered by Paderborn University. Designed for students with a background in sports science, health sciences, physiotherapy or neuroscience, the full-time degree focuses on the neural foundations of human movement, performance, learning and rehabilitation. Across four semesters, students gain advanced knowledge in physiology, motor control, neuroscience and applied research methods, preparing them for evidence-based professional practice and academic careers. Admission is offered exclusively for the winter semester.
Based in Paderborn, the program combines scientific theory with hands-on laboratory experience, emphasizing how brain and behavior interact in sport, exercise and health contexts. Students benefit from modern research facilities, expert faculty and a strong focus on interdisciplinary approaches. The curriculum reflects growing global interest in neuroscience-based performance optimization, rehabilitation and movement analysis, making it an ideal choice for students aiming to specialize at the intersection of neuroscience and applied sport sciences.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Paderborn
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time)
- Admission semester: Winter Semester only
- Area of study: Sport Science
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Neuroscience Foundations
- Fundamentals of Neuroscience
- Human Physiology for Movement
- Statistics & Research Methods
- Scientific Literature Analysis
Semester 2 – Motor Control & Applied Methods
- Motor Learning and Control
- Neurocognitive Methods in Sport
- Experimental Design in Exercise Science
- Applied Laboratory Project I
Semester 3 – Performance, Health & Analysis
- Neuroscience of Performance and Training
- Rehabilitation & Neuroplasticity
- Advanced Data Analysis in Exercise Science
- Applied Laboratory Project II (research-oriented)
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Research Project
- Independent Neuroscience Research Thesis
- Applied Research Project
- Scientific Communication & Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for careers in sport science research, performance analysis, exercise and rehabilitation settings, healthcare institutions, sports technology development and academic research. Professional roles include sport scientist, neuroscientific research associate, performance and motor-learning specialist, rehabilitation consultant, or doctoral researcher. The program’s interdisciplinary nature supports career development across both scientific and applied professional fields.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Master of Science in Applied Neurosciences in Sports and Exercise means entering a program that bridges neuroscience with movement, performance and health. Paderborn University offers a strong scientific environment with research-driven teaching, laboratory-based learning and interdisciplinary expertise.
Students benefit from modern facilities, experienced faculty and a curriculum aligned with international developments in sport and health neuroscience. The program equips graduates with analytical, methodological and applied skills essential for advancing in performance science, rehabilitation and research-oriented careers.
Contact Information
Paderborn University – Student Advisory Service
Zentrale Studienberatung
Street: Warburger Straße 100
Zipcode: 33098 City: Paderborn
Tel: +49 5251 / 60-2007
Fax: +49 5251 / 60-3532
Email: zsb@upb.de
Paderborn University – Faculty of Natural Sciences
Street: Warburgerstr. 100
Zipcode: 33098 City: Paderborn
International Office – Paderborn University
Street: Warburger Straße 100
Zipcode: 33098 City: Paderborn
Tel: +49 5251 / 60-1818
Fax: +49 5251 / 60-3537
Email: io-info@zv.upb.de
