Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence BSc

Program content

In this English-taught program, you learn about how intelligent systems operate and how it is related to the workings of the human brain. The study handles questions like: 'Can computers interpret human emotions in a reliable way? How much meaning can be derived from language? What is required to create a natural interaction between a human and a robot? How do you avoid ‘black box’ software, where the user doesn’t understand how decisions or conclusions are reached? What is the potential impact of Augmented Reality on our  experience of the world?'

• In the first year you take introductory courses in the fields of artificial intelligence, and human cognition. In addition, you will gain basic programming skills. 
   
• In the second year you deepen your knowledge.  You will apply your knowledge and skills within themes such as Machine Learning and Human-Computer and Human-Robot-Interaction. You will also gain experience in conducting research.
   
• In the third year you follow specialization courses (for example: an Introduction to Machine Learning and Advanced Programming). You will also follow a minor. In this minor you can choose between gaining in-depth knowledge of your study program or broadening your perspective by taking courses from a different discipline at Tilburg University, a different university in the Netherlands or even abroad. You finish your studies by writing a Bachelor’s Thesis.

A short impression of Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence (video - 2:21 min)

Typical courses are:

• Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
  Explore in what ways the intelligent behavior of living organisms is copied by computers and machines and how this knowledge can be applied to solve problems.
• Human-Computer Interaction
  Understand how humans and computers interact. Specifically, how psychological models are applied in new computer interfaces, such as website designs, apps, and other everyday digital aids. 
• Introduction to Deep Learning
  Delve into the fundamentals of Deep Learning and learn about the main building blocks of Deep Neural Networks and the primary algorithms used to train them. You will also develop practical skills to apply Deep Learning techniques to a variety of problems through hands-on sessions and project-based assignments

More on the program and courses

Study Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence in Tilburg

• The program focuses on developing applications for Human-AI teaming and hybrid intelligence that are aimed at expanding human intellect (by combining human and machine intelligence) rather than replacing it.
• Education is offered in a state-of-the-art environment with several labs, including Mind Labs, a Robot Lab, and a Virtual and Mixed Reality Lab.  
• The program is built on a balanced mix of theory and practice and promotes ‘learning by doing’: during your studies, you are confronted with real-world problems and will become acquainted with the application of AI in commercial and organizational settings, e.g. by participating in projects with external partners. 
• Ethics and AI is an integrated part of the program, stimulating you to develop AI solutions that are ethical and sustainable.

What to expect when coming to Tilburg

• Why Tilburg University?
• International student support
• Study in Holland

Beyond your Bachelor's: Extracurricular Activities

• Join our study organization Flow, the student association for Cognitive Science and Artifical Intelligence students. They organize formal and informal activities for members, such as company visits and get-togethers.
• Challenge yourself by participating in our on-top programs.

View all extracurricular activities

Careers and subsequent Master’s programs

After obtaining your Bachelor's degree in Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence, you can choose to do a Master's program. After you have completed a Master's program, you will have favorable career prospects as an Intelligent Software Developer, AI Researcher or Machine Learning Engineer.

Graduates found work at Microsoft, Incentro or Capgemini.

 Discover what you can do after your Bachelor’s

Please follow the national application and admission procedure (in Dutch) if you are applying based on a Dutch vwo or hbo-p diploma, regardless of your nationality. A general description of the national application procedure is also available in English.

Admission requirements

• To be eligible for admission to a research university such as Tilburg University, you must have a high school diploma equal to the highest level of secondary education in the Netherlands (the Dutch vwo diploma).
• As this Bachelor’s program is taught entirely in English, you must prove your English language proficiency. 
• A good knowledge of mathematics is important for being successful in this Bachelor’s program. In order to be admitted, you must therefore prove that you have sufficient knowledge of mathematics.

You can find more detailed information about the admission requirements on this program's 'Application and admission' page.

Go to application and admission

Related Bachelor's programs

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