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History and Philosophy of Science

Understanding the way science and its practices change, how scientific knowledge and technology are created, and the relationships of these with society is the domain of historians and philosophers of science. History and Philosophy of Science (HPS) is an exciting interdisciplinary field that examines the past, present and future of science, technology, society and medicine from the perspective of the humanities and social sciences. The field also incorporates science and technology policy and important aspects of environmental studies.


History and Philosophy of Science at UNSW


History and Philosophy of Science at UNSW is one of the largest and oldest concentrations of historians and philosophers of science in the world. HPS courses at UNSW cover a number of related themes:

  • the historical origins and philosophical foundations of modern science
  • the social, political and economic dimensions of technological change
  • the history and politics of medicine and health
  • the policy and management of science, technology and the environment

The HPS program provides a critical and contextual understanding of these issues, both for students of humanities and social sciences, as well as the natural sciences, medicine and engineering. HPS uses the methods of the humanities and social sciences to study science and technology showing how they are evolving, human institutions shaped by history and culture. This historical, philosophical and sociological focus also facilitates instructive analyses of contemporary technoscientific challenges such as climate change and genetic engineering.

Download the History and Philosophy of Science brochure (PDF) (1 Mb)

Careers

HPS confers not only the clear thinking, analytical, written and oral communication skills characteristic of the social sciences and humanities but also, in addition, provides an excellent foundation for effective citizenship in modern technological societies equipping graduates for a wide range of careers. HPS graduates aim for jobs in all three sectors - government, business and community with HPS particularly relevant to destinations such as: science and technology policy; knowledge management; environmental policy and management; high school and university education; journalism and electronic media; and museum and archival work among many others.

International Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to complete an international exchange for one or two semesters as part of their degree. UNSW manages a large and active exchange program with over 180 different student exchange opportunities in 32 countries.

UNSW International Exchange

Program Information

HPS courses are currently available as electives or general education couses for all UNSW students.
Students who began their studies at UNSW prior to 2012 and who enrolled for a major or minor in HPS, within a relevant degree, will be able to complete their intended area of study.

A fourth (honours) year is also available.

Program Coordinator: Professor Nicolas Rasmussen

Courses

Courses available are listed at Courses 2012.

Request an Information Pack

Information packs are available for undergraduate and postgraduate study.

Staff Profile
Nicolas Rasmussen Nicolas Rasmussen, Professor

MA Chicago, MPhil Cambridge, PhD Stanford, MPH Sydney

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