Cognitive Science in Cognition and Computation

The Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science with a specialization in Cognition and Computation at Carleton University offers students an interdisciplinary exploration into the nature of human cognition, intelligent behavior, and computational modeling. This innovative program integrates perspectives from psychology, computer science, philosophy, linguistics, and neuroscience to develop a comprehensive understanding of how the mind processes information, learns, perceives, and interacts with the environment. Students will engage with foundational theories of cognition, delve into artificial intelligence and machine learning, and explore the computational aspects of language, perception, and decision-making. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, providing hands-on experiences through laboratories, programming projects, and research opportunities. Graduates will be equipped with the analytical, technical, and conceptual tools necessary to contribute to fields such as cognitive modeling, human-computer interaction, robotics, and data analysis. With a strong emphasis on critical thinking and scientific inquiry, students will develop the ability to address complex cognitive questions and design computational systems inspired by human intelligence. The curriculum includes courses in cognitive psychology, computer algorithms, neural networks, and philosophy of mind, among others. This program prepares students for dynamic careers in research, industry, technology development, and academia, where understanding the computational basis of cognition is increasingly vital. Whether students are interested in advancing artificial intelligence, improving user experience through intelligent systems, or studying the fundamental processes of cognition, this program provides a robust foundation rooted in rigorous scientific principles and innovative computational techniques.

The Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science in Cognition and Computation at Carleton University offers students an interdisciplinary education that explores the nature of human cognition through the lenses of psychology, computer science, philosophy, neuroscience, and linguistics. This program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the mind processes information, solves problems, and interacts with the environment, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills in computation and analysis.

Students enrolled in this program will examine core topics such as cognitive psychology, neural networks, artificial intelligence, language processing, and perception. The curriculum emphasizes both the conceptual foundations of cognition and the application of computational models to simulate mental processes. Through coursework, students will gain proficiency in programming languages, data analysis, and designing computational experiments, equipping them with versatile skills highly sought after in academia, industry, and technology sectors.

The program encourages active research participation, enabling students to work alongside leading faculty on cutting-edge projects that investigate human memory, decision-making, perception, and machine learning. This research-oriented approach prepares graduates for advanced study or careers in fields such as cognitive science research, data science, human-computer interaction, software development, and cognitive engineering.

In addition to technical training, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration skills. The program also offers opportunities for internships and cooperative education placements, allowing students to gain practical experience in real-world settings and build professional networks.

Graduates of the Cognitive Science in Cognition and Computation program will be well-equipped to contribute to innovations in artificial intelligence, develop user-centered technologies, and advance our understanding of the human mind. The program's combination of theoretical foundations and applied skills makes it a versatile choice for students interested in exploring the complexities of cognition through computational methods and contributing to the future of intelligent systems.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science in Cognition and Computation at Carleton University:

To complete the Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science in Cognition and Computation, students must fulfill a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone project, totaling a minimum of 120 credit hours. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of cognitive processes through interdisciplinary approaches combining psychology, computer science, philosophy, and neuroscience.

Students are required to take foundational courses such as Introduction to Cognitive Science, which covers the basic principles and theories related to human cognition. Core courses include courses in Computational Modeling, Understanding Human Language, and Brain and Behavior. These courses aim to develop an understanding of how cognitive processes are modeled and simulated using computational techniques.

Elective courses allow students to specialize further in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Analysis, Philosophy of Mind, and Neurobiology. Students must select a certain number of electives to reach the required credits for graduation, often around 30-36 credit hours, though precise numbers can vary per academic year.

In addition to coursework, students are required to complete laboratory work and project-based assignments to gain practical experience. A capstone project, often involving research or development of a computational model related to cognitive phenomena, is mandatory in the final year of the program. This project emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Moreover, students must maintain a minimum academic standing throughout their studies, typically a GPA of 2.0 or higher. Internships, co-op placements, or other experiential learning opportunities are encouraged but may not be mandatory, depending on the academic plan.

Language proficiency, if applicable, must conform to university standards for transfer students or international students. Students are also advised to meet with academic advisors regularly to ensure they are on track with their program requirements and to explore opportunities for research and extracurricular involvement.

The program emphasizes integrating theories of cognition with computational methods, preparing graduates for careers in research, technology development, or further graduate study in related fields. To graduate, students must successfully complete all required courses, earn the necessary credits, and submit their capstone project for assessment.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Financing for the Cognitive Science in Cognition and Computation program at Carleton University is primarily handled through a combination of government-funded financial aid, scholarships, fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships. Domestic students are eligible to apply for provincial and federal scholarships, such as the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and the Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS), which provide significant financial support to graduate students pursuing advanced degrees. Additionally, Carleton University offers its own internal scholarships and awards based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both, which students are encouraged to apply for upon admission.

International students can also access various funding options, including some of the university’s scholarships specifically designated for international students, though they may be more limited in number compared to domestic awards. Many students supplement their funding through employment opportunities on campus, including roles as teaching assistants or research assistants, which not only provide financial support but also valuable professional experience related to their field of study.

Graduate students are generally expected to secure funding for the duration of their program, which often includes a mix of scholarships, departmental awards, and paid research or teaching positions. The university’s Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs provides resources and guidance to assist students in identifying and applying for various sources of funding that meet their academic and financial needs.

Students are also encouraged to seek external funding opportunities such as organization-specific scholarships or research grants pertinent to their research interests in cognition and computation. The university actively supports efforts by students to secure external research funding, which can further alleviate financial burdens during their studies.

Overall, while exact funding amounts and specific schemes may vary annually, the program at Carleton University offers comprehensive financial supports designed to reduce students' financial barriers and promote successful completion of their degree. Students are advised to consult the university's official financial aid office and the department-specific resources for the most current information on available funding opportunities, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria for the Cognitive Science in Cognition and Computation program.

The Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science with a specialization in Cognition and Computation at Carleton University is an interdisciplinary program designed to explore the intricate relationships between mind, brain, and computation. This program integrates principles from psychology, computer science, philosophy, linguistics, and neuroscience to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how cognitive processes are modeled, represented, and implemented through computational methods. Students in this program gain foundational knowledge in cognitive science theories, learn programming and data analysis skills, and engage with cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cognitive modeling. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in research, technology development, and related fields. Throughout the program, students have opportunities to participate in laboratory work, internships, and collaborative projects, which facilitate experiential learning and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. Carleton University's strong connections with research institutions and industry partners offer students access to a vibrant academic community and networking opportunities. The program aims to equip students with analytical tools, critical thinking abilities, and technological proficiency necessary to understand complex cognitive phenomena and develop innovative computational solutions. Graduates are well-prepared for further studies at the graduate level or for employment in sectors such as software development, cognitive neuroscience, data science, human-computer interaction, and artificial intelligence research. The program's design emphasizes a holistic approach to understanding cognition, integrating insights from multiple disciplines to address fundamental questions about how intelligent systems operate. This comprehensive, interdisciplinary training ensures that students are not only versed in the scientific and computational aspects of cognition but also capable of contributing to the advancement of knowledge and technology in this rapidly evolving field.