Cognitive Science

Cognitive Science is the interdisciplinary study of human intelligence. Incorporating studies in various fields including psychology, computing science, linguistics and philosophy, it is concerned with research into how we acquire, represent, and use information.

Is Cognitive Science for you?

Cognitive science is for students who are willing to ask questions and critically engage a wide range of perspectives from different disciplines. The multi-faceted nature of cognitive science means that students will develop a variety of applicable skills and knowledge, and the ability to pursue either professional positions or further education at the graduate level.

The Cognitive Science Program at SFU equips students with the ability to communicate clearly; to critically evaluate evidence and data; to program and use computers; and to apply conceptual, analytical and interpersonal skills in a variety of situations. Cognitive scientists are creative in the questions they ask, and in the methods they use to study them.

Areas of study

The Cognitive Science Program is customizable. It offers a selection of core courses on cognition and a range of courses from computing science, linguistics, philosophy and psychology. The interdisciplinary program covers a range of complex issues including consciousness, artificial intelligence, knowledge representation, logic and reasoning, the philosophy of science and mind, research methods, cognitive neuroscience and the nature of language.

Cognitive Science gives students choices for graduate degrees in areas as diverse as Biology, Business Administration, Computing Science, Education, Information Science, Kinesiology, Law, Linguistics, Mathematics and Statistics, Medicine, Philosophy, and Psychology. The Cognitive Science Program at SFU offers a Major, Minor or Honors undergraduate degree in Cognitive Science.

Degree offered: BA

Artificial Intelligence, robotics, and user interface design; Language sciences; Education; Law and public policy; Video game, software, and web development; Neuroscience; Bio- and medical technology; Journalism, communications, broadcasting, and public relations; Strategic Marketing; Consulting