Your degree in Cognitive Systems

While studying cognitive systems, you’re learning the principles and approaches used by both natural and artificial intelligence systems. You’ll develop important skills and investigate issues related to the study of the mind and the interfaces between different forms of intelligent agents.

These skills may include:

Application of principles and techniques used by natural and artificial intelligent systems
Research, collection, synthesis, and presentation of information across diverse subjects
Evaluation of the connections between computer science, linguistics, philosophy, and psychology, and relating them to real-world applications
Observation of issues through diverse perspectives grounded in theories
Critical thinking and ability to debate different sides of an argument while considering philosophical and ethical implications
Collaboration and teamwork with individuals from different backgrounds
Design of new intelligent systems or interfaces, through digital or machine touchpoints

Explore career possibilities

Career opportunities vary widely across a range of fields including research and development, technology, finance, public health, education, consulting, manufacturing, transportation, and others.

There are many career paths that can combine your academics, skills, and experience with your different interests. See the job titles below for ideas, but note that some career options may require further education or training.

Visit the National Occupational Classification website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field.

Aerospace engineer

Animal health technologist

Artificial intelligence designer

Biological technologist

Business manager

Business systems analyst

Child life specialist

Cognitive neuroscientist

Consultant

Crime scene examiner

Data analyst

Forensic psychologist

Gerontologist

Guidance counsellor

Human-computer interface designer

Human resources specialist

Information systems manager

Linguistics advisor

Mediator

Member of Parliament

Mental health worker

Occupational therapist

Pharmaceutical researcher

Psychologist

Public affairs officer

Rehabilitation counsellor

Robotics specialist

Scientific programmer

Social policy researcher

Social worker

Software developer

Speech pathologist

Systems quality assurance analyst

Technical support analyst

Technical writer

UX/UI designer

Web developer

Make the most of your specialization

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities and help clarify understanding of your values and interests.

UBC Cognitive Systems Society
Meet students interested in neuroscience, artificial intelligence, human-computer interfaces, and more.

UBC Neuroscience Club
Learn about neuroscience research through weekly journal club meetings, student-led seminars, and an annual conference.

UBC Science Co-op
Gain work experience in cognitive systems between study terms.

Departmental research opportunities
Reach out directly to faculty members to ask about potential research positions.

UBC Engineering Design Team
Get hands-on experience in designing robots or automation and artificial intelligence systems.

UBC Summer Tech Camps
Connect kids and teens to science, programming, and robotics as a summer camp staff member.

entrepreneurship@UBC
Get the resources and mentorship support you need to take your startup idea to the next level.

UBC Turing Club
Learn how to understand and work with artificial intelligence and machine learning – no coding experience required.

Centre for Artificial Intelligence Decision-making and Action
Volunteer your time in a research role focused on the development, analysis, and application of AI systems.

#BCTECHSummit
Attend the conference, do some industry networking, or join an innovation challenge in term 2.

UBC Life Sciences Institute
Discover research opportunities, events, programs and student competitions in life sciences.

UBC Undergraduate Research Opportunities club
Find a mentor, learn how to get into research, or receive help on publishing your manuscript.

UBC Computer Science Student Society
Find volunteer opportunities, socialize with your peers, and network with industry members at events.

UBC Speech and Linguistics Student Association
Access peer tutoring services, attend career panel talks or social events, and learn about volunteer opportunities.

UBC Philosophy Students’ Association
Attend guest lectures, departmental dinners, and the annual undergraduate conference.

UBC Psychology Students’ Association
Sign up for resume and CV workshops, meet your Psychology professor, and attend fun events.

Make connections

Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you! You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.

The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and exploring job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.

Connect with alumni on LinkedIn

Find UBC Cognitive Systems graduates on LinkedIn, see where they’re working, and explore their career and academic paths.

More information

From your Science degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Science degree.