COGS - Cognitive Science Minor

Of what are minds made? How do people think, perceive, and feel? What is the nature of human consciousness? What is the relationship of the mind to the brain? In what ways is the human mind like, or unlike, a computer? These are a few of the central questions of cognitive science, the interdisciplinary study of the human mind. In recent years, cognitive science has undergone explosive growth. The diverse methods of cognitive science encompass, among others, thought experiments, computer simulations, brain scans, and perceptual and behavioral laboratory experiments. Cognitive scientists study robots, machine learning, the origins of human language, sensory augmentation, and the collective behavior of organisms from individual cells to members of a symphonic orchestra.

The cognitive science minor comprises six courses that explore the diverse approaches to understanding and investigating the mind. Three courses must be in the core areas of cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy of mind, and two courses serve as electives in the wider aspects of cognitive study. An integrating exercise is also required, in the form of either a related seminar, an independent study, or an expansion of a project or thesis in the major discipline. At least one course needs to be at the 300 level or above, and all courses must be approved by the coordinator. Students must receive at least a C- in any course for it to be counted toward the minor.