University of Pittsburgh
  UNDERGRADUATE BULLETIN 1999 - 2002 [ Previous Page | Table of Contents | Next Page ]


SCHOOLS AND ACADEMIC PROGRAMS


HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE (HPS)

The Department of History and Philosophy of Science's undergraduate courses reflect the conviction that science and technology pervade virtually every aspect of our lives and have played a central role in the cultural, religious, and philosophical development of our society. History and philosophy of science applies the techniques of history and philosophy to help the student better understand the sciences and critically evaluate scientific claims. HPS is by nature an interdisciplinary field, allowing students to see connections between historical, scientific, and philosophical ways of understanding the world. A major in HPS is an excellent choice for students who want to combine course work in the sciences with work in the social sciences and humanities. Also, because HPS courses are closely tied to the sciences, and because HPS majors are expected to complete 15 hours of science credits, a double major in HPS and one of the sciences is especially attractive.

  • Major Requirements

    Before declaring a major, students must complete at least two HPS courses with a C or better or receive the permission of the major advisor. HPS majors must complete a minimum of 36 credits in the major, including the following:

    • Four elective courses in HPS, one of which should be at the 1000 level
    • The logic requirement, which may be fulfilled by taking HPS 0611 (Principles of Scientific Reasoning) or PHIL 0050 (Intro to Logic)
    • HPS 1653 (Philosophy of Science)
    • Either HPS 1551 (History of Science I)
      or HPS 1552 (History of Science II)
    • HPS 1553 (Writing Practicum)

  • Other requirements and information for HPS majors follows:
    • Students must maintain at least a 2.00 QPA in all HPS courses to graduate with an HPS major.
    • Letter grades are required for all course work counting toward the major.
    • Any of the natural or social sciences is acceptable for the CAS required 12-credit related area.
    • In addition to the major, the department offers a certificate program in Conceptual Foundations of Medicine designed especially for students who wish to develop a multidisciplinary understanding of modern medicine. (See CAS Certificate Programs for information.)






  UNDERGRADUATE BULLETIN 1999 - 2002 [ Previous Page | Table of Contents | Next Page ]