The graduate program in History and Philosophy of Science is committed to research and teaching in the historical and conceptual foundations of science. This interdisciplinary department offers courses and seminars that lead to MA and PhD degrees. It offers qualified students the opportunity to pursue an intensive course of study in the historical and philosophical dimensions of science. The course work in the department is both formal and informal.
Some course work in the sciences, history, philosophy, or computer science is required.
It is possible to work out a program that leads to a master's degree in one of these fields, while pursuing the PhD degree in History and Philosophy of Science. Students may also take courses offered by the Department of Philosophy at Carnegie Mellon University without paying additional tuition. Both the PhD and MA degrees are awarded. Terminal MA degrees are sought by students who find studies in History and Philosophy of Science relevant to their career interests. These students have included persons with MD degrees, those pursuing the PhD in other fields or at other universities, librarians, and those doing archive or museum work.