MS Symbolic Systems at Stanford University

Programme overview

The observation that both human beings and computers can manipulate symbols lies at the heart of Symbolic Systems, an interdisciplinary program focusing on the relationship between natural and artificial systems that represent, process, and act on information. Computer programs, natural languages, the human mind, and the Internet embody concepts whose study forms the core of the Symbolic Systems curriculum, such as computation, representation, communication, and intelligence.

Faculty: School of Humanities and Sciences | Department: Symbolic Systems | Duration: 45 units minimum | Study mode: full-time | Location: Stanford, CA, United States

What you will study

Programme load is 45 units minimum. Requirements are organised into: Program Requirements; Breadth in Discipline; Research or Project Requirement.

Career pathways

These courses prepare students with the vocabulary, theoretical background, and technical skills needed for study and research at the advanced undergraduate and graduate levels.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

University-level graduate admission (Graduate Admissions): a U.S. bachelor's degree or international equivalent, transcripts for every institution attended, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and TOEFL/IELTS scores unless exempt (U.S. citizens and permanent residents, native English speakers, or applicants with English-medium degrees). Each graduate programme sets its own GRE policy (required, optional or not considered). Programme-specific criteria are set by the department.

Tuition is charged for Autumn, Winter and Spring quarters (Summer quarter also billed separately). Graduate programmes such as PhD and Master's in Computer Science admit for Autumn entry only; Education PhD and Master's programmes begin September 20, 2027.

The graduate application fee is $125, nonrefundable, payable by credit card or bank transfer from a U.S. checking account. Deadlines are set by each programme; one application per academic year may be submitted. The application for 2027 entry is open. Computer Science MS and PhD applications close December 8, 2026; Education PhD closes November 16, 2026 and Education MA/MS closes January 7, 2027.

Apply through the official page: https://gradadmissions.stanford.edu/apply

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