Postgraduate taught
Science communication has been an increasing focus for MSc work. In 2004/5 our 'Science, Media and the Public' group produced Science Idol, a unique analysis of popularisation and popular understanding based on the reality gameshow format.
Our taught Master's (MSc) programme offers both broad and specialised study options, with a unique focus on the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and opportunities to integrate science communication studies with historical work.
You can apply for either of our MSc courses. Select one of our course profiles for a course description, entry requirements, course fees and further information.
Available study routes
Once accepted, you can choose from study routes leading to MSc qualification classified as:
All students take common core set units in Semester 1, then choose from a range of options in Semester 2. The balance of these options and the topic of the dissertation determine the MSc awarded.
The core course in Semester 1 provides a comprehensive introduction to the nineteenth- and twentieth-century history of science, technology and medicine (HSTM) in their wider social, economic, cultural and political contexts, and to the growing field of science communication. Students also take two Research Methods courses: one, providing general historical skills, is taught through the SAGE programme in the Faculty of Humanities; the other, on specific HSTM methods, is taught within CHSTM.
Semester 2 options
In Semester 2, students select from our specialised option courses:
Dissertation
The dissertation provides an opportunity for a more extensive specialist investigation, working with a member of staff with research interests in a relevant area. More information about CHSTM's overall research profile is available here.
Programme structure
| MSc |
Semester 1 |
Semester 2 |
|
| History of Science, Technology and Medicine |
Issues in HSTM |
SAGE and HSTM Methods |
Any Option |
Any Option |
Dissertation |
| Medical History and Humanities |
Issues in HSTM |
SAGE and HSTM Methods |
Medicine, Science and Modernity |
Medical History and Humanities |
Dissertation |
| Science Communication |
Issues in HSTM |
SAGE and HSTM Methods |
Science Communication |
Any Option |
Dissertation |
| Research Methods in the History of Science, Technology and Medicine
|
Issues in HSTM |
SAGE and HSTM Methods |
Any Option |
Qualitative and Quantitative Methods |
Dissertation |
Additional and alternative course units
Students who wish to take additional or alternative courses have access to a variety of course units in allied subject areas in the University, including: History, which offers advanced units specialising in modern British and European social and cultural history; Social Anthropology, which includes specialists in technology, art and medicine; and Art History and Visual Cultures, whose staff share our interests in social history, representation, and the body.