Goldsmiths - University of London

Course philosophy

The MSc in Cognitive Computing is not simply another Cognitive Science MSc. This degree has been specially developed to take graduates from a very broad range of backgrounds and introduce them to advanced computing topics in Artificial Intelligence in the context of a broad critical exploration of modern theories of mind and cognition. The degree aims to equip students with a rigorous grounding in advanced computing skills, sufficient for students to exploit the technical potential of computers in any future career, while at the same time equipping students with a strong foundational appreciation of modern Cognitive Science. This programme, which is the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, is primarily intended for graduates who wish to develop careers in computing, artificial intelligence, research in cognitive science and cognition. The programme will provide students with market-led skills in Java programming coupled with core knowledge of cognitive processes and rigorous research and analytic skills.

Course information

The degree is organised by the Department of Computing, (with some optional courses taught by the Department of Psychology), at Goldsmiths, University of London. The programme aims to stimulate interest, research and debate in the broad area of cognition and computation.

Course programme

Course convenor:

Dr. Mark Bishop, room (2), 29 St. James, New Cross, SE14 6NW. Telephone / fax: +44 (0) 207 078 5048; email Mark Bishop

Course description:

This programme is constructed to allow students to pursue one of two pathways either specialising in the 'technological aspects' or the 'psychological aspects' of cognitive science.

Language support

Any student requiring help with academic writing, presentation skills etc, may wish to use the Goldsmiths College 'langauge support centre' which operates a 'drop-in' service Monday-Thursday 4-5pm). Full details of language suppport services can be found at: Goldsmiths' Language Studies Centre.

All students must take the compulsory course 'Cognitive Science and its Critics' and then, contingent upon the pathway choosen, follow courses either in the 'Technology of thought', or 'Human cognition'. Students who do not have a background in object orientated software must take the Java course; conversely students with a background in computing must take the 'Research Skills' course. The forth module consists of a major project of applied work under the aegis of Cognitive Computing.

Links to Cognitive Computing modules are listed below:

- Cognitive Science and its critics
- Technology of thought
- (OR) Human Cognition
- Object Orientated programming in Java
- (OR) Research skills
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All MSC students are also expected to attend the Goldsmiths Whitehead lecture series. To be added to the Whitehead lecture series seminar mailing list, please contact Mark Bishop by email.