Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS)
in Cognitive Science
The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Computer and Cognitive Science is
available to students in the School of Engineering and Applied Science,
and is administered through the Department of Computer
Science and Engineering.
This program applies 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. It
combines a firm 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 Computer and Cognitive
Science program trains 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. It is an
alternative to the engineering-oriented training offered in Penn Engineering
via the BSE in Computer Science and Engineering.
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. 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.
The minimum requirements for the BAS degree in Computer and Cognitive Science are:
Five Mathematics courses
Five Natural Science courses
Ten Engineering courses
Seven Concentration courses (with the option of including a minor)
Seven Social Science, Humanities, or Technology in Business and Society courses
Three Free Elective courses
See also the Course Planning Guide (CPG) for this program.
For undergraduate application information, please visit Penn's Admissions Office.
