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To comprehend the mind and brain, cognitive science integrates approaches and findings from neuroscience, psychology, linguistics, philosophy, and computer science. UC San Diego has pioneered this dynamic discipline, housing the world's first Department of Cognitive Science. The department thrives within an outstanding scientific community and continues to shape the field it established. Beyond equipping undergraduates for scientific careers, the program offers strong preparation for professional paths like medicine, clinical psychology, and information technology. Cognitive science explores three key areas: the brain (examining neural structures and processes behind cognition), behavior (studying individual cognitive functions and social interactions involving language, information, and media), and computation (analyzing how mathematical and computer systems can model cognitive/neural processes and serve as thinking aids).