Skip to main content
Professor Tanya Luhrmann sits at a table listening to students in an anthropology class
Photo by Misha Bruk for Stanford University

Find your field of study

Undergraduate Academic Options
Undergraduate degrees offered
Undergraduate academic options
Graduate Academic Options
Graduate degrees offered
Graduate academic options
Abstract depiction of a human brain

Symbolic Systems

BS - Bachelor of Science
MS - Master of Science
Undergraduate Minor
Departmental Honors
Coterminal Master's

Symbolic Systems is an interdisciplinary program that investigates both the computer and the human mind as systems that use symbols to communicate and represent information. Faculty approach the relationship between humans and computers by way of theoretical and technical expertise in cognitive science, linguistics, philosophy, and other fields.

Students learn technical skills in mathematics and computer programming, along with a foundation based on humanistic perspectives and empirical research. Many students go on to pursue advanced studies in artificial intelligence, neuroscience, or the philosophy of language.

Graduate joint degree offered: JD/MS