Undergraduate Program

Minor Study Requirements

The minor in Science, Technology and Society (STS) requires the completion of 20 credit hours: 5 of these credit hours must be the Introductory Departmental Studies 187 and the culminating Departmental Studies 498 courses or, in unique situations, approved substitutions. The remaining courses are to be chosen from three groups of electives, with at least one course from each group. Of the 20 credit hours, 11 must be upper-division. Engineering and Science majors may receive limited credit for major discipline courses.

Required Courses

Departmental Studies 187: Introduction to Science, Technology and Society (3 credit hours)

This seminar course, taken early in the student’s career, is designed to introduce the student to the various issues addressed by the program. Fundamental concepts in terms of the structure and methodology of science/technology are addressed. Appropriate courses may be substituted for this introductory class with the approval of the STS Coordinator.

Departmental Studies 498: Independent Research or Internship (2–3 credit hours)

Research Component

The culminating course, taken towards the end of the student’s undergraduate career, is designed to help the student synthesize STS issues by combining additional readings with the writing of a substantial paper in the student’s area of interest under the direction of a University faculty member.

Internship Component

In lieu of independent research, the student can elect to do an internship with environmental groups, local industry, state agencies, etc. The student selects a faculty member to work with during the internship. A final summary paper dealing with the internship experience is expected.

Groups of Elective Courses

Group I: Historical Development
Courses in this group look at particular developments in the history as well as culture of science and/or technology. By this method, new insights can be gained into how we have arrived at the complexities involved in the modern world view.

Group II: Philosophical Issues
Courses in this group look at the basis of scientific knowledge, e.g., at the empirical, rational and societal elements that shape scientific theories.

Group III: Social Dimensions
Courses in this group look at the interaction of science and technology with contemporary societies and address questions concerning ethical and societal impacts on these enterprises.

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