We have an international reputation as a leading centre of research in science and technology studies. We also have a thriving and cosmopolitan community of graduate students studying on our MSc by Research, PhD, Taught Masters and Distance Learning programmes.
Research Strengths
Our current research strengths include:
• the history and philosophy of science
• the social shaping of technology
• the history of medicine
• the politics of controversies and public engagement with science
and technology
• science, technology and gender
• the sociology of financial markets and emissions trading schemes
• innovation in biotechnology and the life sciences
• the development and use of information and communication
technologies
• innovation for sustainability
• science and technology in developing countries
We currently offer two taught MSc programmes within Science, Technology & Innovation Studies:
MSc Science and Technology in Society
Science, technology and innovation are central to contemporary society, solving and creating challenges in equal measure. This interdisciplinary programme examines the social, political and cultural dimensions of science, technology and innovation.
MSc Management of Bioeconomy, Innovation and Governance
This programme responds to the rapid growth in the global bioeconomy by providing the core knowledge and skills needed to compete in a rapidly evolving, highly skilled workforce.
We currently offer two MSc research programmes within Science, Technology & Innovation Studies:
MSc by Research in Science and Technology Studies
The MSc(R) is aimed at students who intend to go on to pursue a research career, within or outside academia, in this interdisciplinary field. It is the normal point of access to a PhD in Science and Technology Studies at the University of Edinburgh or elsewhere.
PhD in Science and Technology Studies
Usually undertaken full-time over three years, or part-time over six years, the PhD in Science and Technology Studies is a research degree in which students make an original contribution to our knowledge by pursuing an extended and focused piece of research on a topic of interest to them.
We currently offer one distance learning programme within Science, Technology & Innovation Studies:
Postgraduate Certificate in Making Use of Digital Research
This Postgraduate Certificate is aimed at commissioners, coordinators and users of digital research in business, policy-making and the third sector, including digital marketing and analytical services officers. The PGCert comprises a suite of courses that together provide the critical understanding and skills needed to make best use of digital research findings, with a particular focus on social media research, web 2.0 data and their synergies with publicly available ‘open’ administrative datasets.