Post Baccalaureate Diploma (PBD) in Cognitive Science

The PBD in Cognitive Science was introduced in 2016. It is designed for students who already have an undergraduate degree but want to learn about cognitive science and gain research experience in the field.

The PBD is also an option for students who are interested in pursuing graduate work in Cognitive Science at the Master’s level, but whose undergraduate degree did not include any research experience or who may not have a high enough GPA to enter the M.Cog.Sc. program directly.

Program Structure

The program consists of the equivalent of 4.0 credits (8 one-term courses). After taking an introductory Cognitive Science course, students take advanced courses (third-and-fourth-year courses) that are required in the B.Cog.Sc. degree, as well as either the honours thesis or honours project course.

The PBD can be completed in one academic year (Fall-Winter), or students may opt to spread the coursework over two or more years.

There is more information on the program in the Undergraduate Calendar.

Admission Requirements

Admission to this program requires the permission of the Department of Cognitive Science. Normally, students are required to have completed an undergraduate degree with a minimum B average (8.0 GPA on the 12.0 Carleton Scale) or higher to be admitted. Applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Students with prior studies in Cognitive Science must consult with the department when choosing courses, to ensure the residency requirement (Section 2.2.2/3.4.1) is met. No funding is provided for this degree.

For more information please visit this Calendar section.

Applications to the program are made through the OUAC system. Course selection, once students are admitted, should be done in consultation with the Undergraduate Supervisor in Cognitive Science.

FAQs

What are the admission requirements for the PDB in Cognitive Science?

The admission requirements depend on your previous academic history. Please refer to the Requirements page of the Undergraduate Admissions Website. Normally, you will need to have completed an undergraduate degree with a minimum of a B average.

How do I apply for the PBD?

Connect to the OUAC site and enter the program code CDC. You will need to create a login to start the registration process.

What will happen after I have applied?

Once you have applied for admission we will receive notification that your file is ready for review. It will then be reviewed by the Department of Cognitive Science; the final decision will be made by the Undergraduate Admissions Office. If you receive an offer of acceptance, you will have three weeks in which to review and accept your offer.

Are students in the Post-Baccalaureate program eligible for any scholarships?

When you are registered in a diploma program you are not eligible to apply for Scholarships. You are eligible to apply to the General Undergraduate Student Bursary and OSAP if you are experiencing financial need. For eligibility requirements for OSAP you will have to contact the awards office.

Will the PBD be an asset if I decide to apply for the Master’s of Cognitive Science (M.Cog.Sc)?

To be accepted into the M.Cog.Sc, you must have completed an Honours Bachelor Degree. The PBD allows students with a three year (general) degree to complete the research and advanced courses associated with honours standing, and thus be will be eligible to apply for the M.Cog.Sc. Program. The PBD is also recommended for students who are interested in the M.Cog.Sc. but whose undergraduate discipline is unrelated to cognitive science. Students whose undergraduate degree was in Philosophy, Psychology, Neuroscience, Computer Science, or Linguistics may be eligible to apply directly to the M.Cog.Sc. if they completed an honours degree with an A- average.

When can I start the PBD?

Admissions to all cognitive science programs occur each academic year, in September. The deadline to apply to the Post-Baccalaureate Diploma for Fall entry for Applicants in Canada and the US is June 1. The deadline for applications from all other candidates is April 1.