Cognitive Science Minor

What is cognitive science?

Cognitive science is the interdisciplinary study of mind and intelligence. It uses the methods of psychology, computer science, linguistics, communication sciences, and philosophy to examine how the mind carries out intelligent behaviors such as: understanding, speaking, planning, creating, reasoning, and problem solving.

Why should I minor in cognitive science?

An interdisciplinary experience:  Minoring in cognitive science allows you to achieve an interdisciplinary perspective on questions such as: What is consciousness? How did intelligence originate? How are languages stored in the brain? Can a computer that carries out a conversation with a human think and feel?

Preparation for graduate school:  Minoring in cognitive science provides excellent preparation for graduate programs in psychology, linguistics, philosophy, communication sciences, and, of course, cognitive science.

Career opportunities:  A degree in cognitive science opens various career opportunities (see report here). These include careers in telecommunications, medical analysis, human factors engineering, artificial intelligence, multimedia design, education, and technical writing (click here for more). You can also do a search for ‘cognitive science’ at Indeed to find jobs in your area.

Where can I find more information?

• View the Cognitive Science Minor Program Requirements.

• For advising and related inquiries, contact  cogsci@montclair.edu

• The Director of the Cognitive Science Minor is Jon Morgan (Philosophy).