Graduate Degrees in Cognitive Science

Cognitive Science

The Institute of Cognitive Science Academic Program includes a combined PhD degree between cognitive science and a core discipline, as well as a combined PhD plan of study tailored for students interested in cognitive neuroscience. These programs are administered by CU Boulder's Institute of Cognitive Science (ICS).

Graduate students in cognitive science are admitted to graduate programs in participating departments that have ICS faculty, and must meet the requirements for admission and degree completion in their home department.

Students enrolled in graduate programs from other departments may request approval to participate.

Degree Types

PhD

Participating departments/units include:

Degree Options & Application Requirements

Cognitive Science

Doctor of Philosophy

Combined PhD requirements: Students must complete 30 credit hours of cognitive science courses, including 9 credit hours of required core courses and 21 credit hours of elective courses.
Triple PhD requirements: Students must complete 28–34 credit hours, including 11–14 credit hours of required core courses, 6–9 credit hours of depth courses and at least 11 credit hours of courses in a related discipline specialization.
All cognitive neuroscience PhD students will be required to complete a doctoral thesis with a primary cognitive neuroscience focus. The thesis/dissertation will represent original state-of-the art research of quality suitable for publication in a reputable scientific journal.

For program details, review the course catalog for the PhD in cognitive science.

Research Areas

Artificial Intelligence
Linguistics
Psychology
Neuroscience
Computer Science
Philosophy
Education

Learn More About Research Areas at CU Boulder

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it’s academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.

Graduate Student Organizations