Track in Cognitive Science

The cognitive science track enables students to combine the degree program in Data Science and Engineering with a specialization in the cognitive sciences. The track program is unique in the landscape of undergraduate cognitive science programs in Israel due to its computational orientation and its emphasis on the links between cognitive science and artificial intelligence (AI). The track further offers an opportunity to conduct a research project under the supervision of a faculty member. In addition to their degree in Data Science and Engineering, students graduating from the cognitive science track will receive a track diploma signed by the Dean of Faculty.
The program is aimed at undergraduate degree candidates with a significant interest in human cognition, who want to complete an engineering degree in data science, and at the same time wish to gain scientific training that opens doors to advanced degrees in cognitive science, artificial intelligence, and related fields.

What differentiates this track from other programs in cognitive science in Israel?

• An integrative program with a computational orientation: The track offers an integrative program with data science that emphasizes computational modeling of cognitive processes and the links between cognition and AI.
• The combination of research fields in the Faculty: The Faculty of Data and Decision Sciences encompasses a unique and attractive combination of cognitive research fields, including language, higher-level cognition, decision-making, human-machine interaction, game theory, cognitive psychology, and more.

• In-depth training in cognitive science in an intellectually stimulating environment.
• Exposure to and participation in research conducted in the faculty’s laboratories during undergraduate studies.
• Preparation for entering advanced degree programs in cognitive science, brain sciences, and artificial intelligence.
• Possibilities for employment in Israel’s brain-tech industry.
• Integration into initiatives such as Brainstorm IL.

The admissions process for the track takes place before starting the degree. In exceptional circumstances, students will be allowed to join the track at a later date, up to the end of the first year of study.
After acceptance to the degree program in Data Science and Engineering, interested students will be invited to an additional registration process for the cognitive science track that includes (1) submitting an essay; and (2) attending an open day, including an individual meeting with the track staff.

• Completion of 30 academic credits, most of them through elective courses. There is no requirement for additional credits beyond those required by the Data Science and Engineering degree program.
• Seminar in Cognitive Science (00940600) in the second year and an additional core course by the end of the second year.
• Three fundamental courses
• Three advanced courses
• No more than one course from outside the Faculty of Data and Decision Sciences in each group of courses. Courses from outside the Faculty of Data and Decision Sciences will not be recognized as faculty elective courses.

Continuation in the track is conditional on meeting all the study requirements.
Note that joining the track implies that you are committing to taking the large majority of your required degree elective credits from the track course list below.