Cognitive Science is the interdisciplinary study of mind and intelligence, embracing psychology, philosophy, linguistics, neuroscience, anthropology, computer science, and engineering. The study of the mind is exciting for theoretical reasons, since the attempt to investigate the nature of thinking is as challenging as anything attempted by science.
It is also exciting for practical reasons, since knowing how the mind works is important for improving education, treating mental illness, improving design of computers and other artifacts, and developing expert systems. The study of the mind is inherently interdisciplinary, requiring the diverse insights and methodologies of psychologists, philosophers, computer scientists, linguists, neuroscientists, anthropologists, and other thinkers. The University of Waterloo Cognitive Science Option invites students to join these investigations.
Admission
Applications may be submitted to the Director at any time, and should include a transcript of grades and a brief (one page) statement of the student's interest in cognitive science. Students applying should have at least a 70% average, and should have taken at least one of the required courses.
Requirements
Students enrolled in any Three-Year General, Four-Year General, or Honours academic plan may pursue the Cognitive Science Option. This option will be of particular interest to students who wish to pursue the interdisciplinary study of mind and intelligence.
The Cognitive Science Option requires successful completion of 3.5 academic course units (seven courses) with a minimum cumulative average of 70%, including:
- PHIL/PSYCH 256
- three of
- PHIL/PSYCH 447 (strongly recommended)
- three electives to be chosen, with no more than two in the same discipline, from:
- ANTH 260
- CS 349
- COGSCI 600 (Seminar in Cognitive Science)
- ECE 486
- ENGL 309A
- KIN 356
- PHIL 255, 363
- PSYCH 304, 306, 307, 314
- SYDE 348, 543, 558
- Relevant advanced seminars and topics courses in the participating departments, approved by the Director of the Cognitive Science Advisory Board or the Philosophy Department Undergraduate Officer.
Notes:
- Course selection must be approved by the Director of the Cognitive Science Option or by the Philosophy Department Undergraduate Officer.
- If students have taken more than the minimum number of required courses, the extras may in some cases be counted as electives.
Further Information
For further information, please go to the Cognitive Science website: www.arts.uwaterloo.ca/InterDis/cogsci/index.htm.