Overview

The Cognitive Science programme at the University of Pennsylvania provides a rigorous interdisciplinary framework for understanding the nature of human intelligence and the mechanisms of the mind. By integrating perspectives from diverse fields, the curriculum prepares students to analyse cognitive processes through empirical and theoretical lenses. This academic path encourages a deep exploration of how biological systems and computational models intersect to produce thought and behaviour.

Why Cognitive Science at University of Pennsylvania?

The programme is distinguished by its flexible yet structured approach, allowing students to choose from concentrations such as Cognitive Neuroscience, Computation and Cognition, or Language and Mind. The University of Pennsylvania fosters a robust research environment where undergraduates can pursue independent study or an honours thesis. Students benefit from the expertise of faculty across the College of Arts and Sciences, gaining access to advanced facilities and a community dedicated to the basic science of cognition.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 63204 per year
National fee: USD 63204 per year
Local fee: USD 63204 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum begins with a mandatory core course followed by a breadth requirement across six essential areas. Modules may include:

Cognitive Science
Psychology
Computation
Language
Philosophy
Neuroscience
Mathematics
Artificial Intelligence
Machine Learning

Careers with Cognitive Science

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse professional paths depending on their chosen concentration. Those focusing on language and mind often pursue roles in natural language processing, while students in the computation track are prepared for careers in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or behavioural economics. The cognitive neuroscience concentration provides a strong foundation for those interested in medicine, healthcare, or clinical research. The analytical skills developed throughout the programme are highly valued in technology, business, and academic sectors.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Cognitive Science

Experimental Psychology

Language and Thought

Computer Programming

Programming Languages and Techniques

Formal Logic

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Philadelphia, United States

Disciplines

Cognitive Science View 130 other Bachelors in Cognitive Science in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Common Application or Coalition Application & Penn-specific Essay

Official High School Transcript

School Report

Counselor Recommendation

Academic Teacher Evaluations (2)

Early Decision Agreement (only if applying for Early Decision)

Mid-Year Report

Final Report

SAT or ACT

English language proficiency

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Out-of-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year

Living costs

Philadelphia

United States

1313 - 2284 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Cognitive Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Philadelphia

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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