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2015-2016

The Undergraduate Calendar

 

 

Arts Academic Plans

Cognitive Science

Cognitive Science Minor

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 Minor 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 degree program may pursue a minor designation in Cognitive Science. This Minor will be of particular interest to students who wish to pursue the interdisciplinary study of mind and intelligence.

The Cognitive Science Minor requires successful completion of a minimum of four academic course units (eight courses) with a minimum cumulative average of 65%, including:

Notes

  1. Course selection must be approved by the Director of the Cognitive Science Minor or by the Philosophy Department Undergraduate Officer.
  2. Courses in the "three of" category above can also be counted as electives if they are not counted toward the "three of" requirement.


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