As a transfer student wanting to major in Cognitive Science, what can I do to prepare?
The Cognitive Science major accepts test or transfer credit to fulfill the major’s math requirement. Credit for MATH 1310, MATH 1220, or APMA 1090 or a higher course number will fulfill the COGS math requirement. The test/transfer credit hours for the math requirement will not count toward the thirty hours for the COGS program but will fulfill the requirement. Math courses that fulfill the COGS math requirement, usually fulfill one of your general education requirements as well.
How do I get into the major and if I’m a third-year transfer-- can I complete it on time?
The Cognitive Science major is an interdisciplinary program within the College of Arts and Sciences. You do not apply to the Cognitive Science program; you apply to the College of Arts and Sciences within UVA and then declare the Cognitive Science major.
The Cognitive Science major consists of ten courses: 5 core courses; 2 upper level concentration courses; and 3-4 electives depending on if you get test/transfer credit for the math core requirement. For third year transfers, we suggest 2 COGS courses their first term, 3 their second, 3 their third, and two their final term. You can complete the program in two years.
What are the pre-requisite courses needed for declaring the Cognitive Science major?
Before declaring the Cognitive Science major, you must complete two pre-requisite courses in different subjects of the five areas of specialization—computer science, linguistics, neuroscience, philosophy, or psychology at UVA. For example, you might enroll in PSYC 2200 Survey of Neural Basis (neuroscience area) and ANTH 2430 Languages of the World (linguistics area) in your first term at UVA. Courses for upcoming terms can be found on our Approved Course page of the Cognitive Science website.
Third year transfer students usually must defer the major and take the two pre-requisite classes in two different areas during their first term at UVA. Once grades are received and you receive a grade of C+ or above in both courses, you can declare the major.