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How difficult is cognitive science and data science?
I'm looking into majoring in cognitive science and data science but I'm not sure what each major focuses more on. What is the difference between both of these majors? Which one is better? Which one requires more coding?
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Jake’s Answer
Hi Amy. Both cognitive science and data science are pretty new fields, but data science is definitely a more common major these days. Data science is going to involve a fair amount of coding (although much less than a pure computer science major), fairly advanced math (through linear algebra and probably advanced calculus, plus a lot of statistics), and some DS-specific courses.
I'm not as familiar with cognitive science as a major, but I suspect there would be some required psychology courses, which you definitely wouldn't take in DS. I would encourage you to look at the specific requirements for this major at the schools you're considering
I'm not as familiar with cognitive science as a major, but I suspect there would be some required psychology courses, which you definitely wouldn't take in DS. I would encourage you to look at the specific requirements for this major at the schools you're considering
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Ishan’s Answer
It seems like by cognitive science you want to focus on Artificial Intelligence, which can go hand-in-hand with data science! This is actually my background so I would say that a strong background of math and statistics is a great start. Next would be to develop coding skills in various languages such as Python, SQL, R, and Java. The most complex part is similar to any computer science role: figuring out the best and most efficient way to approach the problem. However, majoring in such a field is the best way to get started as in those 4 years, you will learn how to do this at an expert level.
I personally like data science because I can incorporate that more with Machine Learning and throw bits of AI into there, and it allows me to see the business perspective which is important in moving up the corporate ladder.
I personally like data science because I can incorporate that more with Machine Learning and throw bits of AI into there, and it allows me to see the business perspective which is important in moving up the corporate ladder.
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Sean’s Answer
Like Ishan mentioned the two fields really do go hand-in-hand. The way I like to think about it is data science modelling can be a way to answer cognitive science questions, however not all data science modelling answers a cognitive science question. It's almost like a venn diagram. The problems you will solve in cognitive science will be more focused on how the human mind works, but the problems you will solve in data science can be broader - they can include some cognitive science questions, but also other broader ones (e.g. Should NFL teams go for it on forth down? Can you optimize your supply chain to create efficiencies in transit?, etc.)
Both are great majors - it just depends on what you want to prioritize! Regardless, you will learn invaluable problem solving skills and different ways to approach problems that you will be able to use in any field in the future!
I also found this article from someone that started with a focus on cognitive science and transitioned to more data science that provides some additional color!
https://towardsdatascience.com/why-my-cognitive-science-degree-was-a-great-foundation-for-data-science-and-machine-learning-f5838b527d40
Both are great majors - it just depends on what you want to prioritize! Regardless, you will learn invaluable problem solving skills and different ways to approach problems that you will be able to use in any field in the future!
I also found this article from someone that started with a focus on cognitive science and transitioned to more data science that provides some additional color!
https://towardsdatascience.com/why-my-cognitive-science-degree-was-a-great-foundation-for-data-science-and-machine-learning-f5838b527d40
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Janice’s Answer
I studied CogSci and Computer Science, so i would say data science is more technical and focuses on analytics. For CogSci, it's more psychology and philosophy focusing on how the brain works, it is possible to take more technical courses if you want as well though.
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Dustin’s Answer
Data Science is definitely going to involve more coding, technical and analytical skills. With a degree in Data Science, or even just taking classes in Data Science while getting a separate degree in anything Math, Science, or Engineering based will allow for a wide breadth of jobs to apply for in many different industries. Cognitive Science is more of a psychological science, although I'm sure you can find a way to use coding in that field or any field at that!
Take or listen to some introductory courses on both topics.
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