Cognitive Science, B.S., B.A.

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Overview

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.

UC Merced Cognitive Science Program

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, neuroscience, psychology, computer science and engineering, information sciences and information management, communications, medicine, business, management, law, and education.

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, cognitive linguistics, computational modeling, decision sciences, and philosophy of cognitive science.

What Can You Do With A Cognitive Science Degree?

  • Annual Job Openings in CA: 4,095
  • 10-year projected job market growth:16.3%
  • Median wage in California: $108,076

Upon graduation, you might become:

  • Software Developer
  • User Experience Designer
  • Product Designer
  • Software Quality Assurance Analyst
  • Digital Interface Designer
  • Project Management Specialist
  • Computer and Information Systems Manager
  • Advertising and Promotions Managers
  • Creative Services Director
  • Virtual Reality Researcher