History and Philosophy of Science

The Bachelor of Arts in History and Philosophy of Science at University College London offers students a unique interdisciplinary education that explores the development of scientific ideas, methods, and concepts alongside their historical and philosophical contexts. This programme is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of how scientific knowledge has evolved over time and how philosophical questions have shaped scientific inquiry. Students will examine major scientific breakthroughs, the ethical implications of scientific practice, and the philosophical foundations underlying scientific theories. The course combines rigorous historical analysis with critical philosophical discussion, enabling students to appreciate the complex interplay between scientific discovery and philosophical inquiry. With a flexible curriculum, students can tailor their studies to focus on particular periods, themes, or topics within the history and philosophy of science, including but not limited to the Scientific Revolution, modern scientific developments, and contemporary debates in philosophy of science. The programme also emphasizes the importance of analytical skills, research techniques, and writing proficiency, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, science communication, policy analysis, or further postgraduate study. Taught by leading scholars in the field, the programme encourages active engagement through seminars, workshops, and research projects, fostering a vibrant intellectual community. By combining historical perspective with philosophical rigor, the course aims to produce graduates who are not only well-versed in scientific concepts and their history but also capable of critically analyzing scientific practices and their societal implications. Graduates will leave equipped with a nuanced understanding of the development of scientific ideas and their philosophical underpinnings, enabling them to contribute thoughtfully to contemporary scientific and philosophical discussions.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

This degree aims to produce graduates ready to use deep historical and philosophical perspectives to interpret science's influence on modern society.

With our focus on key skills, practical methods, and broader perspectives, we also aim to create versatile thinkers ready to engage with emerging issues.

The real strength of the degree is its flexibility and breadth across a wide range of themes in history and philosophy, underpinned by strong interdisciplinary connections.

A levels

Grades

AAB-ABB

Subjects

No specific subjects.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

34-36

Subjects

A score of 16-17 points in three higher level subjects, with no score lower than 5.

The university offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in the History and Philosophy of Science program at University College London. Tuition fee details for UK and international students are published annually on the university’s official website, with current figures indicating that UK students can expect to pay approximately £9,250 per year, while international students may be charged around £20,000 per year. These fees are subject to annual increases and may vary depending on the specific course structure or additional modules taken.

Students are encouraged to explore various funding sources to support their studies. UCL provides a selection of scholarships and bursaries based on academic merit, financial need, and other criteria. For example, there are specific scholarships dedicated to students in the humanities and social sciences fields, which can significantly reduce financial burdens. Prospective students can also access government-funded loans and grants, such as the UK Student Finance options for domestic students, which include tuition fee loans and maintenance loans to assist with living expenses.

International students have additional options, including UCL international scholarships and sponsorships provided by various organizations. External funding bodies such as the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission and the Chevening Scholarships also offer financial support for eligible candidates.

Students are advised to apply early for scholarships and explore external funding opportunities well in advance of their course start date. The university also provides financial advice and support services to help students navigate the complex landscape of funding and ensure they maximize their financial aid possibilities. Additionally, some students may consider part-time work opportunities available on or near campus to help meet their living costs while studying.

Overall, the financial planning for students enrolled in the History and Philosophy of Science at UCL involves a combination of tuition fee management, scholarship applications, government aid, and personal budgeting to make higher education accessible and manageable.

The History and Philosophy of Science program at University College London (UCL) offers a comprehensive exploration of the development of scientific ideas and their philosophical foundations. This interdisciplinary course is designed for students interested in understanding the historical context and conceptual underpinnings of scientific knowledge across different periods and cultures. The program emphasizes critical engagement with primary texts, historical case studies, and philosophical debates, allowing students to analyze the evolution of scientific theories and practices in tandem with their philosophical implications. Students will benefit from a diverse curriculum that includes modules on the history of science, philosophy of science, scientific methodology, and the relationship between science and society. The program aims to develop analytical skills, rigorous reasoning, and a deep understanding of how scientific knowledge influences and is influenced by cultural, social, and political factors. UCL's Department of Science and Technology Studies provides expert lecturers and access to extensive research resources, including archives and digital datasets, fostering an enriched learning environment. Additionally, students have opportunities for research projects, seminars, and collaborations with scholars in related disciplines. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, science communication, policy analysis, and museums, among others. It also serves as an excellent foundation for further study in graduate or professional degrees related to philosophy, history, or the sciences. Overall, the program combines historical scholarship and philosophical inquiry to equip students with a nuanced understanding of the development of scientific ideas and their broader implications.