Student life

Academic student life on the Cognitive Science programme

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Cognitive Science is based on lectures, practical exercises in e.g. programming and statistics, group discussions, independent study and experimental projects. At lectures, you learn about the central issues, theories and methodologies in the field of cognitive science. In connection with practical exercises, you apply this knowledge in connection with classroom discussions, data analysis and modelling exercises, as well as in designing and carrying out your own research projects. As a university student you will be spending a large part of your studies on independent reading, preparation and exercises in e.g. programming and statistics. You will also be part of a study group, where you will work on presentations and projects together and discuss your subject.

Follow the academic activities at the Department of Linguistics, Cognitive Science and Semiotics.

A world of knowledge

You study cognitive science because you are curious! The degree programme is anchored in a vibrant research environment. Almost every day, you get to participate in research seminars and learn about fascinating new discoveries. For example, is it possible to tell if someone is depressed based on their tone of voice? And can computer games help teach autistic children to talk?

Here is an example of a typical week in the first semester of the Bachelor’s degree programme in Cognitive Science. As you can see, you will be spending much of your time preparing for classes and lectures, and meeting with your study group. This is why cognitive Science is a full-time degree programme, even though you don’t necessarily have scheduled classes every day.

Monday:

9:00- 11:00 Lecture: Experimental Methods I

11:00 - 13:00 Project work

13:00 - 15:00 Practical exercises, Experimental Methods I

15:00 - 17:00 Independent study and practising programming

Tuesday:

9:00 - 11:00 Independent study and practising programming

11:00 - 13:00 Lecture by guest professor

13:00-16:00 Independent study

Wednesday:

10:00-12:00 Meeting in study group

12:00 - 14:00 Lecture: Introduction to Cognitive Science

14:00 - 16:00 Classroom instruction, Cognitive Science (presentation)

16:00-17:00 Independent study

Thursday:

10:00-12:00 Meeting in study group

12:00 - 14:00 Lecture: Cognition and Communication

14:00 - 16:00 Classroom instruction: Cognition and Communication

16:00-17:00 Independent study

Friday:

9:00 - 15:00 Work on independent project

16:00 - ?? Friday bar

Social life on the cognitive science programme

Your life as a student doesn’t end when you close your books. As a cognitive science student, you will spend much of your time in the Nobel Park along with students from programmes such as cognitive semiotics, linguistics and English.

The students at Cognitive Science arrange their own Friday bar on selected Fridays. Furthermore, a group of students have started The Neural Network, an e-newsletter for students and others with an interest in cognitive science.

Studying abroad

While studying Cognitive Science, you have the option of taking a semester abroad, which allows you to develop your language skills while gaining a new perspective on your subject, for example by studying artificial intelligence or communication. During the last year of your bachelor's programme, you can take advantage of one of the many exchange agreements between Aarhus University and partner universities all over the world. Get inspiration, guidance and travel lust here.

Commencement of studies

Your time at Aarhus University will begin with an introductory week in week 35 (the last week of August). During this week, you will get an introduction to IT systems, exam forms and degree programme structure and opportunities as well as meeting your teachers. You can read more about your commencement of studies and the introductory week here. On this page, you will also find tips and good advice for new students at Aarhus University.

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