Cognitive neuroscience vs cognitive science: which major to choose?

I'm interested in both cognitive neuroscience and cognitive science, but I'm not exactly sure which one to major in. Can someone explain the main differences between the two, and give me some advice on how to determine which major is best suited for me?

The main difference between cognitive neuroscience and cognitive science lies in their focus and approach to studying human cognition. Cognitive neuroscience is a subfield of cognitive science that specifically focuses on the neural basis of cognition. It integrates knowledge from neuroscience, psychology, and biology to explore how our brains process, store, and use information. In contrast, cognitive science is an interdisciplinary field that investigates human cognition using a variety of perspectives and methods from psychology, computer science, linguistics, philosophy, and anthropology.

Here are a few factors to consider when deciding which major might be best suited for you:

1. Research interests: If you're more interested in understanding the neural mechanisms and brain structures underlying cognitive processes, cognitive neuroscience would be a better fit. However, if you're fascinated by the broader aspects of cognition and would like to explore a range of disciplines to understand human thinking, cognitive science may be more suitable.

2. Methodologies: Cognitive neuroscience often employs research techniques such as neuroimaging, brain mapping, and electrophysiology to study cognition. Conversely, cognitive science may involve various research methods from different disciplines, like computational modeling, behavioral experiments, or linguistic analysis.

3. Career goals: If your ultimate goal is to work within a neuroscience lab or pursue a career in brain research, a cognitive neuroscience major would be more fitting. On the other hand, if you're interested in a broader range of careers, such as artificial intelligence, language processing, or human-computer interaction, cognitive science could offer a more comprehensive foundation.

To help you make a decision, consider exploring both fields through introductory courses, joining relevant clubs or organizations, or engaging in research opportunities at your school. By doing this, you'll gain a better understanding of the coursework and research opportunities associated with each major, allowing you to make a more informed decision. Remember, you can always take classes in both subjects and decide which one resonates more with your interests and long-term goals.