Science and Technology Policy Minor
Science, technology, engineering, and government are intertwined. Federal, state, local, and foreign governments shape science and technology in a variety of ways, including through grants, contracts, regulations, and foreign policy. Science and engineering reshape governments in turn by supplying tools and expertise and, indirectly, by transforming social and economic structures.
This minor equips students with the basic skills to understand those interactions. It requires 18 credits. Along with two courses in politics and economics, all students take a course in science and technology policy designed for this minor. Three electives—from fields such as history, philosophy, and planning as well as politics and economics—deepen and broaden students’ education.
Students completing this minor will gain a deeper understanding of the interdependence of science, technology, engineering, and policy. They will also prepare themselves to lead organizations inside and outside of government, including those in industry, consulting, law, and medicine.
Students interested in this minor should contact Prof. Rider Foley at rwf6v@virginia.edu.
- STS 2101 - Social Foundations Engineering Credits: 3
- STS 3300 - STS Research Methods Credits: 3
- Must complete one (1) of the following courses:
- STS 2050 - Introduction to Sustainable Energy Systems Credits: 3
- STS 2620 - Science and Technology Public Policy Credits: 3
- STS 2760 - Technology and Policy: Where Intent Meets Process Credits: 3
- STS 3020 - Science and Technology Policy for Interns Credits: 3
- Must complete nine (9) credits of approved electives. Approved electives can be found on the minor webpage. Credits / Units: 9
Questions? Want to learn more?
Students interested in this minor should contact Prof. Rider Foley
Rider W. Foley
Dr. Rider W. Foley is an associate professor in the science, technology & society program in the Department of Engineering and Society at the University of Virginia. He is the principal investigator at University of Virginia on the ‘4C Project’ on Cultivating Cultures of Ethical STEM education.