Computer and Cognitive Science, BAS

The BAS in Computer and Cognitive Science through the School of Engineering and Applied Science combines the application of theoretical insights from Computer Science, Linguistics, Neuroscience, Philosophy, and Psychology to the formal study of intelligence, perception, reasoning, and other properties of mind, and their application in the service of Information Technology. The degree combines a form grounding in relevant aspects of Computer Science, from programming to algorithms to artificial intelligence, with a concentration in specific courses from the contingent disciplines. The non-computer science courses have been selected for formal rigor and scientific relevance. The degree prepares students for a wide variety of careers in a number of distinct academic, industrial, and professional arenas relating to psychology, philosophy and linguistics. In particular, these careers pertain to the impact of knowledge and information technology on the professions, including those in Media and Communications, Software Development, and Education (among many others), in which a broad background in computer science must be combined with a deep understanding of the human mind. The BAS in Computer and Cognitive Science is intended to address the need for properly trained computer scientists who have sufficient understanding of these other disciplines to be able to solve the many open problems in applications, research, and development that must be addressed if we are to realize the full potential of information processing technologies in these domains. Employment opportunities for students going through such a program are excellent at major information technology companies, software houses, and research labs, as well as in the standard career structures in the areas identified above.