University of California, San Diego

How this program compares

University of California, San Diego's BS in Cognitive Science - Machine Learning and Neural Computation Specialization lists about $20.2K total tuition — roughly 78% below the $89.8K AI bachelor's average (7th percentile in our data). It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: High school diploma or equivalent with a competitive GPA (3.5+) is required. Most UC San Diego applicants submit SAT/ACT scores, though scores are optional for some applicants. Demonstrated strength in mathematics and computer science coursework is expected.

About This Program

This interdisciplinary major offers a computational and mathematical approach to understanding the mind and building intelligent systems by combining insights from neuroscience, computer science, and psychology. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Deep Learning. Most students complete it in about 4 years.

Estimated total tuition is $20.2K, below the $89.8K average for AI bachelor's programs in our database and in the 7th percentile on cost at this level. That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

It is one of 65 AI-related programs we track in California, of which about 37% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 75% of the California programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $63.3K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Engineer, with reported salaries around $130,000.

Design and analyze neural computational models to understand brain function and learning mechanisms.

Career Outcomes

The BS in Cognitive Science - Machine Learning and Neural Computation Specialization at University of California, San Diego (La Jolla, California) is oriented toward AI Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $130,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and Deep Learning maps directly to how employers screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 36% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. Neuroscience Researcher
• 3. Data Scientist
• 4. AI Research Scientist

What You'll Learn

• Design and analyze neural computational models to understand brain function and learning mechanisms
• Apply machine learning techniques to interpret neuroimaging and electrophysiology data
• Understand how neural circuits support cognition, perception, and decision-making
• Develop programming skills in Python and related tools for neuroscientific data analysis

Curriculum Highlights

The program includes core studies in distributed cognition and neuroscience, alongside specialized electives in supervised machine learning, neural networks, and data science in practice.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Meta, OpenAI, academic research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies like Genentech and Pfizer that develop AI-driven neuroscience applications.

Admissions

Admission to University of California, San Diego's BS in Cognitive Science - Machine Learning and Neural Computation Specialization generally expects a bachelor of science (bs). The GRE is not required here — a growing norm among AI programs — so applicants can often lead with coursework, projects and recommendations instead. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Optional
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions