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 cognitive neuroscience, linguistics, computational modeling, decision sciences, 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, and use that knowledge as context for understanding the current state of affairs. Evidence will be collected in the form of embedded test questions in
   COGS 001
    .
2. Students should have the following abilities:
   1. Ability to interpret / evaluate / synthesize information in research papers
   2. Ability to design a cognitive science research project
   3. Ability to write clearly and scientifically
3. Interpret and appreciate formal and computational approaches in cognitive science.
4. Take theoretical positions in cognitive science and argue for them or against them. Evidence will be collected in the form of an essay from one of the writing-intensive cognitive science courses.
5. Be able to use a cognitive science education outside of the undergraduate classroom, particularly in terms of employment and career development. Evidence will be collected in the form of student surveys.