Cognitive Science

Cognitive Science is the interdisciplinary study of human thought and behavior. It combines methods, theories and applications from many disciplines, including philosophy, psychology, linguistics, computer science, neuroscience and biology. The Cognitive Science majors, B.A. and B.S., provide a broad knowledge of cognitive science, including language and communication, reasoning, memory, categorization, cognitive modeling, perception and action, philosophical foundations, artificial intelligence, cognitive engineering, and cognitive science applications for the business setting. A degree in Cognitive Science provides in-depth training in research methods, data analysis, modeling, and lab-based research and it provides excellent training for jobs in high-tech companies. It is ideal for students who want to pursue graduate work in cognitive science, business, communications, computer science and engineering, education, information sciences and information management, law, linguistics, management, medicine, neuroscience, and psychology. Students can work with cognitive science faculty to tailor their own program of study to emphasize one or two specific areas within cognitive science. Example specializations include behavioral experimentation, cognitive neuroscience, computational modeling, decision sciences, linguistics, and philosophy of cognitive science.

Programs

• Cognitive Science, B.A.  
• Cognitive Science, B.S.  
• Cognitive Science Minor  

Cognitive Science Program Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation, students majoring in Cognitive Science will be able to:

1. Explain and apply knowledge of landmark findings and theories in cognitive science.
2. Design, interpret, and evaluate simple behavioral and neuroscientific experiments.
3. Understand and apply foundational formal and computational principles in cognitive science, including basic statistical and quantitative principles.
4. Argue for or against theoretical positions in cognitive science.
5. Use a cognitive science education outside of the undergraduate classroom, particularly in the service of careers.