Requirements for the B.A. Degree
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The B.A. program provides introductory background to all areas of brain and cognitive sciences, and encourages deep exploration of one sub-field within BCS. It differs from the B.S. in that it requires fewer courses and thus allows greater flexibility in overall program planning. The B.A. program is particularly suitable for students with focused interests in a single area of BCS and those wishing to pursue double degrees or double majors.
BCS Foundation Courses
- BCS 110: Neural Foundations of Behavior (Fall)
- BCS 111: Foundations of Cognitive Science (Fall & Spring)
BCS Core Courses
- BCS 151: Perception and Action (Fall)
- BCS 152: Language and Psycholinguistics (Fall)
- BCS 153: Cognition (Spring)
Formal Methods
- BCS 200 w/200L: Statistical Analysis and Experimental Design with Lab (Fall)
BCS Laboratory
BCS 200 is required before taking a laboratory course
Choose one of the following:
- BCS 203: Laboratory in Neurobiology (Spring)
- BCS 205: Laboratory in Development and Learning (Fall)
- BCS 208: Laboratory in Perception and Cognition (Spring)
BCS Upper Level Electives: 4 courses
At least three must be 200-level courses, and 3 of the 4 should form a coherent "track" around some theme within BCS. The department offers examples of common track themes (see Sample Track Themes), but students can form their own tracks in consultation with their advisor and with the approval of the director of undergraduate studies. Independent study or research (39X) courses cannot be used to satisfy this requirement.
Senior Seminar
One course chosen from:
- BCS 310: Senior Seminar
- BCS 311: Senior Honors Seminar (see Honors program)
The College Upper-level Writing Requirement in BCS
Successful completion of a BCS degree will also satisfy the College upper-level writing requirement through significant writing experience at three levels of the curriculum: Core courses, Laboratory course, and Senior Seminar.