The Specialization in Cognitive Science, which is administered by the College of Arts & Letters, is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in bachelor's degree programs at Michigan State University. With the approval of the department and college that administer the student's degree program, the courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the specialization may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the bachelor's degree.

The Specialization in Cognitive Science introduces students to one of the most important remaining mysteries in science: the nature of mind and how biological systems process complex information to produce thought and adaptive behavior, and how artificial systems can be endowed with the same capabilities. The scientific study of the nature of mind requires familiarity with many different theoretical perspectives and empirical traditions, and an appreciation for the concerns of several different academic disciplines. Students in the specialization will gain perspective on these problems from a variety of disciplinary viewpoints.

Students who plan to complete the requirements for the Specialization in Cognitive Science should consult the undergraduate adviser for the Cognitive Science Program at: http://www.cogsci.msu.edu/contact.html

Requirements for the Specialization in Cognitive Science

The student must complete a minimum of 20 credits from the courses listed below. Beyond the required Introduction to Cognitive Science, at least 8 of the 20 credits must be in a single disciplinary area (Linguistics, Psychology, Philosophy, Zoology, or Computer Science). At least 8 credits must be in a complementary department or departments.

Required

Electives

* Topic must be approved in advance by Cognitive Science Specialization Coordinator.

Independent Study (up to a maximum of 6 credit hours) and Special Topics (CSE, LIN, PHL, PSY, ZOL), or courses from other departments, when the content of the course is specifically related to or focused on Cognitive Science, may be used to complete the specialization. Relevance of course content must be approved by the Cognitive Science advisor in advance of taking the course. Students are encouraged to take advantage of research opportunities with specific faculty members available through the Independent Study option.

Upon completion of the requirements for the Specialization in Cognitive Science, the student should contact the Dean of the College of Arts & Letters and request certification for the completion of the specialization. After the certification is approved by the Dean of the College of Arts & Letters, the Office of the Registrar will enter on the student's academic record the name of the specialization and the date that it was completed. This certification will appear on the student's transcript.