Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science at Simon Fraser University (SFU) - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Cognitive Science program at Simon Fraser University is an interdisciplinary study that delves into the complexities of the mind and its processes. This program encompasses various aspects such as consciousness, language, learning, information processing, and decision-making. By integrating fields like Linguistics, Psychology, Computing Science, and Philosophy, students gain a comprehensive understanding of cognition through diverse scientific and philosophical approaches. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation in cognitive science while allowing students to explore various interdisciplinary options.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science is structured to provide students with a robust educational experience. The program length is typically four years, allowing students to engage deeply with the material and develop critical thinking skills. Key features of the program structure include:

A core curriculum that covers essential topics in cognitive science.
Interdisciplinary options that enable students to tailor their education to their interests.
Opportunities for research and collaboration across different fields.

This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for various career paths in cognitive science and related fields.

Featured Experiences

Interdisciplinary learning that combines insights from multiple fields.
Research opportunities that allow students to engage in hands-on projects.
Collaboration with faculty members who are experts in their respective fields.
Access to resources and facilities that support cognitive science research.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Cognitive Scientist: Conduct research on cognitive processes and develop theories about how the mind works.
User Experience Researcher: Analyze user behavior to improve product design and enhance user satisfaction.
Data Analyst: Utilize statistical methods to interpret complex data sets and inform decision-making.
Human-Computer Interaction Specialist: Design and evaluate user interfaces to improve the interaction between people and technology.
Psychological Research Assistant: Support research projects in psychology, assisting with data collection and analysis.

These roles leverage the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills gained through the Cognitive Science program, preparing graduates for success in various fields.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Simon Fraser University (SFU) official website

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For students interested in the Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science program, the following Academic Requirements must be met:

Minimum GPA: A minimum of 6/10 in Senior Mathematics is required for admission (based on a 50% pass scale).
General Academic Requirements:
- Applicants must submit a transcript that includes interim marks for their senior year. Admission is calculated based on senior level academic subjects.
Faculty/Program-Specific Requirements:
- For the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, which includes Cognitive Science, applicants must meet the general requirements with no additional faculty or program course prerequisites.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet all necessary deadlines. For any clarification or support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at SFU. All applicants, regardless of country of origin or citizenship status, will be required to have demonstrated competence in the English language prior to admission. Competence is required in all four of the following skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

As an applicant to undergraduate studies, you must demonstrate English language competence through one of the options below:

Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English in Canada
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English, in a country in which the principal language of instruction is English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last four (4) years of full-time secondary school education in English at a recognized international school in a country in which the principal language of instruction is not English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program including English A (HL/SL) or English Literature and Performance (SL)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 3
Completion of a three unit English (ENGL) course or a certified W (writing intensive) course for which SFU grants transfer credit
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a C- (C minus)
GCSE O-Level English (or GCSE English Language B)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 4 (or C)

Alternatively, you may complete a Language Proficiency Exam:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic)
- Minimum score: Overall 6.5 with no part less than 6.0
Cambridge English Qualifications
- B2 First
- C1 Advanced
- C2 Proficiency
- Minimum score: Overall score 176 with no part less than 169
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based test (TOEFL iBT)
- Minimum score: Overall score 88 with no part less than 20
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 70, with no part less than 60
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 65, and a minimum score of 60 in the Communicative Skills
Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 125

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-17

Program overview