Human and Social Dimensions of Science and Technology, PhD

Program Overview

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The PhD program in Human and Social Dimensions of Science and Technology (HSD) prepares students to conduct research and teach on the social, historical, philosophical, and policy foundations of science and technology. The program combines a strong core curriculum with flexibility for students to design their own plans of study. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, government, industry, and non-profit organizations.

Program Outline

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Human and Social Dimensions of Science and Technology, PhD

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Degree Overview

It prepares students to teach and conduct research using humanistic and social science methods on the social, historical, philosophical and policy foundations of science and technology, as well as on their current and future interactions with society.

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Program Objectives:

• To produce graduates who are well-versed in the theoretical and methodological approaches of the human and social dimensions of science and technology.
• To equip graduates with the research skills necessary to conduct original and innovative research in this field.
• The program is flexible, combining a strong, integrated first-year experience with substantial freedom for students who, in conjunction with their advisors, design carefully crafted plans of study relevant to their own areas of specialization and expertise.
• Distinct from programs of this kind in the nation, students also learn to communicate and work with scientists, engineers, policymakers, business and community officials, or the public in conducting and applying research.

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Outline

Students are required to complete 84 credit hours, including coursework, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus, and a dissertation.

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Required Core (8 credit hours):

• HSD 601 HSD I: Human Dimensions of Science and Technology (4)
• HSD 602 HSD II: Science, Power and Politics (4)

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Electives and Research (64 credit hours):

• Students can choose from a wide range of electives offered by the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and other departments across the university.
• Students are also required to complete research hours, which can be used to support their dissertation research.

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Culminating Experience (12 credit hours):

• HSD 799 Dissertation (12)

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The program is divided into four phases:

• Year 1: Students complete the required core courses and begin to develop their research interests.
• Year 2: Students continue to take elective courses and begin to work on their dissertation research.
• Year 3: Students complete their dissertation research and write their dissertation prospectus.
Instead, students are encouraged to design their own plans of study in consultation with their advisors.

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Assessment

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Assessment methods in the HSD program include:

• Coursework: Students are assessed on their coursework through exams, papers, and presentations.
• Comprehensive Exams: Students must pass both a written and oral comprehensive exam to advance to candidacy for the PhD degree.
• Dissertation: The dissertation is the culmination of the student's research and is assessed by a dissertation committee.

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Assessment criteria in the HSD program include:

• Depth of knowledge: Students are expected to demonstrate a deep understanding of the theoretical and methodological approaches of the human and social dimensions of science and technology.
• Research skills: Students are expected to be able to conduct original and innovative research.
• Writing and communication skills: Students are expected to be able to write and communicate their research clearly and effectively.

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Teaching

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The HSD program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Lectures are used to introduce students to new concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Seminars are used to provide students with an opportunity to discuss complex topics in depth.
• Independent research: Students are expected to conduct independent research under the guidance of their advisors.

They are also experienced teachers who are committed to helping students succeed.

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Careers

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Graduates of the HSD program have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Academia
• Government
• Industry
• Non-profit organizations

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The program prepares students for careers that require:

• A deep understanding of the human and social dimensions of science and technology
• Strong research skills
• Excellent writing and communication skills

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Other

• The program is housed in the School for the Future of Innovation in Society, which is a leading center for research and teaching on the social and ethical implications of science and technology.
• The program offers financial support to students in the form of scholarships and fellowships.
• The program has a strong alumni network that provides support to graduates after they complete the program.