MA in Philosophy and History of Science

The University of Bristol ranks amongst the top European institutions in the philosophy and history of science. We offer expertise in a broad range of areas in the philosophy and history of the specific sciences, including:

• physics
• biology
• mathematics
• logic
• medicine
• psychology

Our MA draws on these strengths. It is intended both for students who have a first degree in philosophy who wish to specialise in philosophy and/or history of science at a higher level, and also for individuals with a background in pure science who wish to make a transition to philosophy and history of science or to explore foundational issues within the sciences.

The emphasis of the course is in philosophical issues arising from specific scientific disciplines, with special emphasis on physics, biology and mathematics. The history of science is studied in terms of the philosophical debate about the nature of scientific method and knowledge. 

The MA consists of six taught units, examined by essay, and a 15,000 word dissertation.

You will be an active member of the Department's flourishing research culture.  You will be encouraged to attend and participate in both the weekly Departmental research seminar and in the weekly Philosophy and History of Science research seminar, which often features well known scholars in the field, from Bristol and far beyond. There is also a weekly postgraduate seminar, where you are encouraged to present your own work before your peers,and where you will learn to develop your argumentative strategies in a supportive environment.