MA Philosophy and Sociology of Science

at University of Exeter

We’ll encourage you to question the taken-for-granted status of contemporary science and technology and to explore the relations between social interaction, local cultures, and processes of innovation. You will explore some key problematic issues such as the role of authority in science, technology transfer and the sociology of environmentalism.

You will learn how to evaluate the major theoretical approaches and explore the key ethical, social, cultural and policy issues associated with scientific research. The dissertation gives you the opportunity to apply these philosophical research methods and address key issues in a field of particular interest to you under the guidance of an academic supervisor. 

You will be taught by staff who are research active in the field and who bring this research directly into their teaching. Our small group seminars enable you to interact closely with academics and also peers, providing a safe and stimulating environment in which to develop and debate your own ideas and opinions, discuss readings and learn from others.

Due to our interdisciplinary approach you will have the benefit of a wide choice of optional modules from across sociology and anthropology as well as philosophy. You can choose to explore fields such as cultures of the life sciences, data governance and ethics and research methods in the social sciences.

You will undertake modules to the value of 180 credits comprised of a combination of compulsory and optional modules

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

Modules

• Philosophy of Science
• Science Technology and Society
• Dissertation

We are looking for graduates with a 2:1 or above in philosophy, sociology, statistics, data or maths. While we normally only accept applicants who meet this criterion, if your first degree is in a different discipline, you have a high 2:2 or equivalent, are coming from a different academic background which is equivalent to degree level, or have relevant work experience, we would welcome your application.

All applicants should provide a personal statement explaining their interest in the programme and how it fits with their earlier studies.

Entry requirements for international students

English language requirements

• IELTS

Overall score 6.5. No less than 6.0 in any section.

• TOEFL

Overall score 90 with minimum scores of 21 for writing, 21 for listening, 22 for reading and 23 for speaking.

2022/23 entry

UK fees per year:
£10,000 full-time; £5,000 part-time

International fees per year:
£20,500 full-time

In addition to the specialist knowledge you will gain during your programme, you will also develop transferrable skills valued by employers such as: 

• Researching, analysing and assessing sources of information
• Written and verbal communication skills
• Managing and interpreting information
• Developing ideas and arguments