by our College Data Analytics TeamDiscover how people think and why they act the way they do with a major in Cognitive Science. Students will take classes in a variety of subjects in order to fully understand the human mind. Learn how the fields connect and work together in order to make discoveries through different theories and methods. This is a fascinating major that will reveal the way people think, solve problems and reason.
Classes will be in topics such as psychology, computer science, math, philosophy, linguistics, neuroscience, chemistry, language acquisition, logic, and biology.
In 2021-2022, cognitive science was the 172nd most popular major nationwide with 2,852 degrees awarded. This year's Best Cognitive Science Schools ranking compares 27 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Continue reading to check out one of our many unbiased rankings of cognitive science programs later in this article.
Cognitive Science is an interdisciplinary major that requires organization and time management. Be ready to work through difficult mathematics problems and complicated labs. Students need to memorize terminology and theories and apply them to different subject areas. Learn to work cooperatively with others and listen to new opinions and perspectives.
This major encourages the development of research and problem solving skills. You should have a flexible mind and be open to new methods. Be ready listen and communicate your own findings. Your coursework will involve both written and oral presentations.
cognitive science degree applicants generally need have finished high school or their GED. Many schools may also have GPA and SAT/ACT score minimums that must be met. Once you obtain your degree, additional cognitive science certifications required to pursue a career in this field.
There are various different levels of cognitive science degrees. You can get anything from a in cognitive science to the highest cognitive science degree, a . The time it takes to complete a cognitive science degree varies depending on the program.
| Degree | Credit Requirements | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 60-70 credits | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 50-70 credits | 1-3 years |
| Doctorate | Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation | At least 4 years |
A Cognitive Science degree will prepare you to pursue further education in the behavioral sciences fields as well as different directions such as law or medicine. Graduates who wish to go straight into a career can find work in the computer industry working with artificial intelligence, software design and development, human-computer interface design, or cognitive engineering. Those interested in medicine can become neuroscientists, bio-technicians, or pharmacists, although these careers may need additional education.
Recently graduated cognitive science students earned an average of $47,638 in <nil>. Earnings can range from as low as $27,628 to as high as $105,695. As you might expect, salaries for cognitive science graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
One of 51 majors within the Multi / Interdisciplinary Studies area of study, Cognitive Science has other similar majors worth exploring.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Cognitive Science | 2,848 |
| Contemplative Studies/Inquiry | 4 |
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Other Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies | 31,307 |
| Biological & Physical Science | 30,032 |
| Interdisciplinary Studies | 9,114 |
| International Studies | 6,614 |
| Nutrition Science | 5,598 |
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