History and Philosophy of Science

History and Philosophy of Science (HPS) is located at the crossroads of science and arts, investigating the development and place of science in modern society. It examines theoretical and experimental developments in science, technology and medicine from a range of perspectives using socio-historical and philosophical techniques to explore these in their social, cultural and political contexts. HPS is an ideal way to critically engage with a broad range of scientific ideas and practices, and their social and cultural significance.

APPLICATIONS

• Application information for domestic students
• Application information for international students

There are two postgraduate courses in History and Philosophy of Science:

Graduate Diploma in Science (History and Philosophy of Science)
Graduate Certificate in Science (History and Philosophy of Science)

Overview

• balanced program of history, philosophy and social studies of science and medicine, including wide range of senior units in the history, philosophy and sociology of the physical, biological and medical sciences.
• two coursework based programs: a graduate certificate and a graduate diploma, providing an introduction to the historical, philosophical and sociological analysis of science
• focus on the philosophy of biomedical sciences, bioethics, or the history of medicine,
  or work in the history and philosophy of the physical sciences, mathematics, or early modern science.
• designed for you if you wish to reflect on the place of science in modern society as well as the ethical implications of science
• excellent opportunity for science teachers, for example, to broaden their perspective on science

Sydney Advantage

• University library contains over five million volumes, including a great
  number of rare books in the history of science and medicine
• HPS offers a lively intellectual atmosphere provided by an enthusiastic group of young scholars working in innovative areas of the history and philosophy of science.
• stimulating atmosphere for academic inquiry and research
• academics publish widely in their fields of expertise and have attained international recognition for their research
• our staff bring the latest scholarship to their teaching and maintain high standards for postgraduate students
• visiting researchers of international standing contribute to the vibrant intellectual ambience of HPS

Program expectations

Upon completion you will understand the nature of the discipline of history and philosophy of science and will have acquired a combination of basic research skills which will assist in:

• analysing episodes in the history of science
• the sociological study of science and the dynamic relations between science and society
• philosophical analysis of scientific theory and practice
• identifying and examining the conceptual and social dimensions of science, technology and medicine using a variety of scholarly techniques

Achieving these interdisciplinary skills at the postgraduate level enhances a range of undergraduate backgrounds, preparing you for intensive research training or qualifying them for positions in government or industry.

Course structure

Study plan for Graduate Certificate in Science (History and Philosophy of Science) (full time student)

Study plan for Graduate Diploma in Science (History and Philosophy of Science) (full time student)

Mode of delivery

HPS caters almost exclusively for part-time study and accommodates students who work full-time by scheduling all units of study after 4pm. Each semester HPS hosts a research seminar series featuring leading scholars from Australia and around the world. Our postgraduate students are also given the opportunity to present their work at these events.

Units of study

Up to date information on units of study.

After graduation

Studying HPS can lead to many different career paths. Science and medical policy, science journalism, science communication and the management of science and medicine are just some of the areas in which HPS graduates work. Many of our former students have successfully pursued further study in a range of internationally recognised academic programs. In addition, postgraduate programs can provide career enhancement for you if your previous technical training does not meet your current job needs.

Special note

All units of study are offered after 4pm each day. Both programs are run predominantly on a part-time basis.

Contact

Unit for History & Philosophy of Science
Level 4, Carslaw Building F07
The University of Sydney
NSW 2006 Australia

Phone: +61 2 9351 3762
Fax: +61 2 9351 4124

History and Philosophy of Science website