Cobalt nanoparticles (Co NPs) attached to graphene modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) were prepared by electrodepositing. Atomic force microscopy image showed that many Co NPs with relative homogeneous size were formed and uniformly dispersed on the graphene/GCE. X-ray diffraction spectrum showed the as-prepared Co NPs was of the cubic phase of metal Co. The electrochemical behavior and electrocatalytic performances of the Co NPs/graphene/GCE towards the oxidation of cysteine and N-acetyl cysteine were evaluated by cyclic voltammograms, chronoamperometry and amperometric method. These results showed a good electrocatalytic activity for the two amino acids. The good catalytic activity, high sensitivity and well stability made this Co NPs/graphene/GCE to be a promising electrode for constructing a nonenzymatic sensor. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.