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Cognitive Science

Cognitive Science is an interdisciplinary program that explores how we understand and improve things like perception, language, reasoning, learning and problem-solving in living things or machines.

Careers in Cognitive Science

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in cognitive science enjoy diverse career opportunities, including roles in cognitive engineering, human-computer interface design, artificial intelligence, neural network applications, software development, and emerging fields in neuroscience, biotech, and pharmaceuticals, with many also pursuing advanced degrees.
  • Logistics
  • Behavioral Therapist
  • Technical Engineer
  • Teacher
  • Data Analyst
  • Product Designer/Developer

Potential Salary

Median Salary $78,280

The median annual wage for Life, Physical, and Social Science occupations in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Cognitive Science Degrees at MSU

Cognitive Science, Bachelor of Science–Biology

The biology emphasis uses a biological lens for understanding cognition supported by the fields of psychology, philosophy and computer science.

Cognitive Science, Bachelor of Science–Computer Science  

The computer science emphasis uses a computational lens for understanding cognition supported by the fields of psychology, philosophy and biology.

Cognitive Science, Bachelor of Science–Philosophy

The philosophy emphasis uses a philosophical lens for understanding cognition supported by the fields of psychology, biology, and computer science. 

Cognitive Science, Bachelor of Science–Psychology

The psychology emphasis uses a psychological lens for understanding cognition supported by the fields of biology, philosophy and computer science. 

What is Cognitive Science?

Watch our video to learn more about what the study of cognitive science entails.

Related Programs

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Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of the effects of individual, social, physiological, developmental, and environmental factors on thoughts, feelings, and behavior.

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Philosophy

Philosophy uses both logical reasoning and creative imagination to investigate some of the most fundamental questions about the human experience and the nature of reality. Our students become independent and critical thinkers who are equipped to excel in any profession.

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Biology

Biology introduces students to a broad spectrum of topics related to the study of living things and helps them develop specializations that lead to a wide range of career opportunities.

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Computer Science

The Computer Science major prepares graduates for careers in computer-related fields and further study, covering a wide range of topics from theoretical foundations to advanced developments in operating systems, machine learning, and intelligent systems.

Department of Cognitive Science

College of

Humanities and Social Sciences

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is an inclusive community of diverse learners seeking to examine, engage with and transform the social world while nurturing creativity and innovation. Our programs build a foundation of knowledge that adapts to a constantly changing society.

Learn More About the College of Humanities and Social Sciences