Academics

In conjunction with the History Department, the Science, Technology, and Society program offers a minor in the history of technology and science. Open to all University undergraduates, this minor provides students with an opportunity to become familiar with humanistic perspectives of technology and science. For the engineering student, the minor offers an occasion for placing his or her professional education in a larger social and intellectual context; likewise, it provides the liberal arts student with a better understanding of science and technology as key components in human culture. Click here for more information. The minor consists of 18 credits. College students may include the non-College courses as general electives upon completion of the requirements for the minor. The list of eligible courses and requirements can be obtained from the Department of Engineering & Society.

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. It requires 18 credits. Along with core 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.

Understand how scientific, engineering, and corporate practices, and associated regulatory policies can guide the development, testing, and implementation of emerging technologies toward socially and environmentally responsible ends.

Contemplate ethical concerns about emerging technologies and about the development and implementation of new technologies. Acquire analytical skills for navigating ethical quandaries and policies about technology.