What to Expect

Can computers be programmed to think? Cognitive science students work on finding the answer to that and many other questions.

"I knew some people who argued that people are conscious because of some kind of supernatural soul, and that computers could therefore never be conscious," says Peter Drake. He studied cognitive science at Indiana University.

"This seemed rather silly to me, so I decided to help work on the very long-term problem of creating a conscious computer."

To begin working on that complex problem, Drake had to be prepared for difficult work in many different areas. He studied psychology, math and philosophy.

"Cognitive science is a fascinating field that studies the nature of intelligence and consciousness," says Nathaniel Blair. He also studied at Indiana University. "It grew out of independent disciplines like computer science, psychology, neuroscience, math and linguistics, among many others."

How to Prepare

"Math. You can never have enough math. In particular, consider logic, linear algebra, differential equations and statistics," Drake says.

"Proficiency in computer programming is extremely beneficial," says Marcia Aileen Wilt. She took cognitive science at Indiana University. "Definitely take classes that exercise and hone analytical reasoning skills."

She also says to take basic science classes, such as biology, chemistry and physics.

"You may not remember everything, but at least you will have a basis to build on. You can always pick up content classes later, but I advise getting quantitative skills early."

If you can, get experience working in a lab as an undergraduate, Wilt suggests. "Find out what kind of work you like by trying different things."