A Look into Cognitive Science Specializations

One of the great things about majoring in Cognitive Science is its interdisciplinary nature — UCSD makes it easy to focus on a specific area because the field is so diverse, and that’s exactly why the specializations were created! With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to figure out which one fits you best. While we recommend taking your time to learn about each specialization, experience the classes, and talk to students and faculty in each field, we’ve put together this simple guide to give you an idea of what’s out there and help you find your perfect fit.

Cognitive Science B.A. and B.S.

UCSD’s Cognitive Science department offers both B.A. and B.S. degrees in Cognitive Science, and the main difference between a B.A. and a B.S. is the workload– the B.S. comes with a more rigorous course load. The cool part though, is that if you choose the B.S. route, you can later pick from one of six specializations: Clinical Aspects of Cognition, Design and Interaction, Language and Culture, Machine Learning and Neural Computation, and Neuroscience. While the difference in lower-division courses is minimal, typically just one or two additional classes, the electives vary significantly as well as the rigor depending on the specialization. If you’re unsure which path to take, most Cognitive Science students begin with a general B.S. degree and specialize later in their freshman or sophomore year, giving you a chance to explore the major before committing.

Neuroscience

The neuroscience specialization focuses on the biological and physiological aspects of the brain, making it the perfect choice if you’re considering the pre-med route or academia. Many students recommend taking COGS 17, a lower-division course that all Cognitive Science students have to take, early on if you’re exploring the neuroscience specialization. The class gives you a taste of what the neuro specialization has to offer, and honestly, it’s the course that draws a lot of students into this specialization in the first place. Pairing this major with a chemistry or biology minor is a great way to knock out some of those pre-med requirements. Others prefer to complement it with a computer science or data science minor to add a coding or tech aspect. If you’re eager to understand how neurons drive behavior and are passionate about uncovering the mysteries of the nervous system, then this specialization is definitely for you.

Machine Learning and Neural Computation

Being one of the more popular specializations, this track definitely comes with the longest and most rigorous course load, including extra math classes and some specific required electives. A lot of students tend to overlook the neural computation aspect of this major, but that’s where it really gets interesting. The whole idea here is to combine computing and neuroscience–basically applied neuroscience at its finest. Professors like Bradley Voytek or Eran Mukamel are fantastic examples of faculty who really delve into this area, so definitely keep an eye out for their classes. Another cool thing about this major is that it sets you up with a strong foundation for jumping straight into industry roles like software engineering, data science, or machine learning. It’s also a solid choice if you’re thinking about continuing in academia since it emphasizes both neuroscience and computer science.

Design and Interaction

Another one of the most popular Cog-Sci specializations here at UCSD, and for good reason, is the Design and Interaction specialization. This track allows students to learn and explore the complex interactions between humans and computers, as well as how design fits into all of this. Students who are interested in the nuances of the Digital Age, the effects of technology, and how understanding the interaction between humans and the internet can make products and experiences more user-friendly will find great value in this major. There are many interesting electives that students can choose from for this specialization, including Interaction Design (COGS 120) and HCI Technical Systems Research (COGS 124). With the valuable skill sets gained from courses like these, students can go on to become Product Designers, Software Engineers, Web Developers, and UI/UX researchers.

Clinical Aspects

This specialization is another great option for those considering pre-med or pre-health tracks. The Clinical Aspects specialization offers students a valuable look into topics such as cognitive disorders and the effects of drugs and brain damage on various cognitive functions. Another pathway many students with this major take is pursuing research on cognitive functions and how they are affected by different substances and stimuli. Those who are interested in the pre-med track often take courses such as organic chemistry or physiology as part of their electives for this specialization. Other fascinating electives include Metabolic Disorders of the Brain (COGS 163) and Drugs: Brain, Mind, and Culture (COGS 174).

Language and Culture

This specialization focuses on the intersection of language, culture, and cognition, making it ideal for those interested in understanding how psychological processes are influenced by cultural and linguistic contexts. It explores how language shapes thought, how cultural practices affect cognitive processes, and how design elements can influence human behavior. There are a plethora of different electives that students with this specialization have the option of choosing. Some of these include Animal Cognition (COGS 143), Social Cognition (COGS 144), and Music and the Mind (COGS 157). Students who graduate with this specialization can go on to do research and work in anthropology, or sociology.

Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience

This specialization is jointly administered by the Cognitive Science and Psychology departments. Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience focuses on understanding the connections between brain function and behavior, investigating how neural activity influences cognitive processes and actions. Students in this specialization have the option to take interesting electives such as Cognitive Perspectives (COGS 102A) and The Developing Mind (COGS 110). By studying behavior and the neural activity that drives it, students have a wide range of career options. Graduates with this major can pursue research in behavioral neuroscience or continue their education in graduate programs such as occupational therapy or medical school. If you’re particularly interested in understanding behavior and what drives it, this specialization is a great fit.

To Sum It Up…

Okay, that was a lot to take in! The good news is that you have plenty of time to decide what works best for you. UCSD’s Cognitive Science program has something to offer everyone. The best part? You don’t have to choose right away. Take the time to explore each specialization, dive into the courses, chat with professors, and find what sparks your intellectual fire. Remember, choosing a specialization isn’t just about earning a degree — it’s about finding what excites you and setting yourself up for a future that you’re passionate about. So go ahead, explore your options, and make the choice that feels right for you!