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History and Philosophy of Science
Graduate Diploma in ArtsSpecialisation (formal)Year: 2024
History and Philosophy of Science
Contact information
Coordinator
Dr James Bradley
Email: jbradley@unimelb.edu.au
Currently enrolled students:
Future students:
Overview
The aim of History and Philosophy of Science is to understand science: how is works, its historical development and its function in modern society. History and Philosophy of Science thus integrates philosophical, historical and sociological approaches to the study of science. It thus provides students with an insight into scientific methods and objectives without actually having to do science. Students will gain analytical skills in evaluating scientific (and non-scientific) knowledge as well as a broad understanding of the historical development of science in its interactions with philosophy, religion and society.
Intended learning outcomes
On completion of this specialisation, students should be able to:
- Possess a broad knowledge and understanding of the discipline; students majoring in HPS will be able to identify, understand and synthesise the major theoretical, philosophical, sociological and historiographical themes in HPS. possess a deep knowledge of one of the following areas: history of science; philosophy of science; sociology of science or technology
- Create sustained and critical arguments using appropriate knowledge and methods, culminating in independent and self-directed research
- Develop an awareness of the relationship between HPS and other disciplines, especially the sciences
- Demonstrate integrity and ethical awareness in all aspects of the programme's learning activities
- Apply HPS knowledge to real-world practice, including the development of policy and the provision of informed comment about science, society and technology
- Develop a wide range of life skills including: life-long learning; excellent communication; effective collaboration in small and large groups; and a high-level of organization
- Reflect upon our own (individual) relationship with science and society.
Last updated: 27 August 2024
Structure
100 credit points
Duration: 1 year full-time / 2 years part-time
The Graduate Diploma in Arts in this area of specialisation requires:
- two compulsory subjects (25 points)
- elective subjects (75 points)
Total 100 points
Please note: students cannot take more than 12.5 points at first-year level
Subject Options
Compulsory Subjects
25 points
Code | Name | Study period | Credit Points |
---|---|---|---|
HPSC40016 | History and Philosophy of Science | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC90012 | Trust, Communication and Expertise | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
Elective Subjects
75 points
Code | Name | Study period | Credit Points |
---|---|---|---|
HPSC10001 | Plato to Einstein: A History of Science | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC10002 | Science, Philosophy and Society | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC10004 | Bad Science | Not available in 2024 | 12.5 |
HPSC20002 | A History of Nature | Winter Term (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC20009 | Technology & Contemporary Life | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC20020 | God and the Natural Sciences | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC20015 | Astronomy in World History | Summer Term (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC20023 | Sex and Gender in the Sciences | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC20024 | Debating Science in Society | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC20025 | Breeding Better Humans? A History | Not available in 2024 | 12.5 |
HPSC20026 | Philosophy of Science | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC30019 | Minds and Madness | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC30023 | Science and Society | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC30034 | Magic, Reason and Science, 1450-1750 | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC30035 | The Dynamics of Scientific Change | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC30037 | Copernicus to Darwin: A Cultural History | Summer Term (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC30038 | Exploring Digital Realities | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
PHIL20033 | The Philosophy of Mind | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
PHIL30043 | The Power and Limits of Logic | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
HPSC20025 | Breeding Better Humans? A History | Not available in 2024 | 12.5 |
HIST20080 | Witch-Hunting in European Societies | Not available in 2024 | 12.5 |
HIST30004 | A History of Sexualities | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
Links
http://arts.unimelb.edu.au/shaps
Last updated: 27 August 2024