About This Program
The minor in History and Philosophy of Science allows you to delve into the fascinating relationships between these fields, gain a deeper understanding of scientific thought and discovery and sharpen your critical thinking and analytical skills. With a flexible curriculum and supportive faculty, you can tailor the program to your interests and career goals. Read more...
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Program Delivery
Admission Requirements
Admission to a minor is open to students declared in a bachelor’s degree, the A.A.B. or A.A.S. degree or the A.T.S. degree (not Individualized Program major). Students declared only in the A.A. or A.S. degree or the A.T.S. degree in Individualized Program may not declare a minor. Students may not pursue a minor and a major in the same discipline.
Full Description
The History and Philosophy of Science minor prepares students from a variety of related disciplines to think about science as a social, historical and philosophical enterprise. It will prepare students for graduate work in history of science, philosophy of science and science and technology studies, as well as for careers in areas of public and educational policy related to science.
Science is arguably the supreme intellectual enterprise of our species. It pervades nearly every aspect of modern society. Scientific research is heavily funded by governments and private institutions; courses in science are requirements at every level of education; scientific accomplishments are honored with awards and prizes; museums display scientific achievements and inventions. Moreover, the sheer depth and breadth of scientific progress through human history is monumental. All of this raises questions about what science is, how it works, and how it manages to be as successful as it is. These questions define the discipline known as the history and philosophy of science, which aims to study science, to understand its goals and methods, its principles and practices and its failures and triumphs.