Cognitive Science Major

About our program

Immerse yourself in understanding the complex workings of the mind while you mesh psychology, computer science, philosophy and more to uncover why we think and act the way we do.

This major is a flexible one. You'll be able to tailor it to your own interests through the courses you take and the multiple opportunities you'll have to do research. And when you graduate, you’ll be able to pivot to a wide range of careers or grad programs.

And at Marquette, we look at everything through the lens of serving others, which means you'll graduate with an understanding of how your expertise in human behavior can be used to advance the greater good.

Marquette Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Marquette Hall, College of Arts and Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Arts and Sciences

The ability to make significant positive change in the world requires knowing more than one area well. And since our College of Arts and Sciences is the most academically diverse college on campus, we're the perfect place to prepare for your role as a changemaker. So broaden your expertise by adding at least one additional major or minor to your degree — 73% of our students do. 

What can you do with a major in cognitive science from Marquette?

About half of our cognitive science graduates go on to graduate and professional schools, while the rest enter the workforce. Here’s where some of our recent graduates landed. 

  • AbbVie 
  • Advocate Aurora Health 
  • Froedtert Hospital  
  • Marquette University 
  • Medical College of Wisconsin 
  • St. Augustine Prep Academy 
  • State of Wisconsin 
  • University School of Milwaukee 
  • Versiti 
  • Wisconsin Early Autism Project

collage of a building and faculty member talking to students

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.

 

Professional experience

As a cognitive science major, you'll have lots of career options. Explore the direction you'll take — and get valuable professional experience — with an internship. Internships can include working in a variety of professional settings. Our internship program is here to help you find the best option for you. 

Check out our credit-earning internships.

Undergraduate research

Here, you'll have the opportunity to work in a research lab — on your own projects — under the guidance of your faculty mentor. And you can present your findings at regional or national conferences. During the summer, participate in our 10-week program where you’ll work in a real biology lab and get paid for it.  

Here are some of the areas our undergraduates are researching: 

  • Developmental biology 
  • Cell biology 
  • Neurobiology  
  • Vertebrate physiology 
  • Computer science 
  • Psychology 
  • Philosophy

Explore our research opportunities. 

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the driver of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too. 

Explore our E-Lead program. 

Study abroad

Expand your cognitive science education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities around the world. Other international opportunities are available for cognitive science students through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs or research.  

Check out our study abroad programs.

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

Take the next step.