Cognitive Science- Computation and Cognition
The Cognitive Science: Computation and Cognition Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the computational principles underlying cognition, learning, and intelligent behavior. The curriculum integrates computer science, psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, and research methodology, enabling students to model cognitive processes, analyze behavioral data, and design computational simulations of thought and decision-making. Students engage in laboratory experiments, computational modeling, and applied research projects, developing analytical, technical, and critical thinking skills essential for professional or academic careers in cognitive science, artificial intelligence, neuroscience, or related fields.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, workshops, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in cognitive science, computational modeling, and behavioral analysis. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, quantitative analysis, and applied experimentation, preparing graduates to design studies, interpret cognitive and computational data, and contribute to research, technology, or educational initiatives. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, computational proficiency, and critical reasoning, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in cognitive science, neuroscience, computer science, or artificial intelligence.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Cognitive Science- Computation and Cognition
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Cognitive Science
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Computation and Cognition
- Introduction to Cognitive Science and Computational Modeling
- Fundamentals of Psychology and Human Cognition
- Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
- Introduction to Programming and Algorithms
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Cognitive Modeling
- Computational Models of Cognition and Learning
- Cognitive Neuroscience and Brain Function
- Data Analysis and Experimental Design
- Electives: Artificial Intelligence, Linguistics, or Behavioral Science
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Applied Research Projects in Computation and Cognition
- Neural Networks and Machine Learning Applications
- Cognitive Simulation and Decision-Making Models
- Electives: Neuropsychology, Robotics, or Human-Computer Interaction
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Cognitive and Computational Issues
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Research Labs, Technology Companies, or Academic Institutions
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Computation and Cognition program are prepared for careers in cognitive research, artificial intelligence, data science, human-computer interaction, neuroscience, and computational modeling. Alumni may work as cognitive scientists, computational modelers, AI specialists, research analysts, or pursue graduate studies in cognitive science, computer science, neuroscience, or artificial intelligence. The program equips graduates to analyze complex cognitive processes, develop computational solutions, and apply research findings to real-world challenges. With strong analytical, computational, and research skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on cognitive modeling, AI applications, and interdisciplinary research.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of computational modeling, cognitive theory, applied research, and interdisciplinary study within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, hands-on lab work, and immersive research projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in cognitive science, AI, and computational research. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to investigate cognitive phenomena, design computational models, and contribute meaningfully to professional and academic initiatives. For students passionate about computation, cognition, and interdisciplinary research, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
