Bachelor of Science (Advanced Mathematics) (Honours) - History and Philosophy of Science

The University of Sydney

The honours year in science is a widely recognised and highly regarded additional year of undergraduate study available to you after you complete your undergraduate course. It's a unique opportunity for you to explore your research potential and put the theory from your undergraduate studies into practice. An honours qualification in mathematics is not only well regarded in academia, but also in industry where a command of scientific thought processes are highly sought after. Extend your knowledge of your undergraduate degree with a stand-alone Honours year in your subject area expertise. This course is available to students who have already completed their studies in this study area. Honours can be undertaken in any area of science, and involves designing a research program in your chosen area of interest in consultation with one or more supervisors. Your research program may include components in more than one area of science (eg. mathematics and biology) and depending on the nature of your project you may also have to undertake some courses in experimental design or complete technical training to use a particular piece of equipment.History and philosophy of science (HPS) investigates the nature of science, how science has developed, and how it has come to occupy such an central position in today's society. HPS is an exciting area of study in which you will be stimulated to think critically and creatively about developments within science and their impact on society. It places science in its historical and social contexts and examines how science differs from other forms of knowledge.Studying fourth year honours in history and philosophy of science (HPS) can lead to many different career paths such as science policy, science education, science journalism, and science writing. In particular, it serves as an excellent preparation for an academic career. In the HPS honours course you can expect to work closely with an academic supervisor in a lively and supportive department, on a major research-based project and undertaking relevant coursework units. You will gain experience in formulating a research question and carrying out investigations around your topic, and this will culminate in a 15,000 word thesis about your research. Your research will normally be related to one of the following major themes: medicine and society, early modern science or bioethics. Unit of study requirements for Honours in the area of History and Philosophy of Science: completion of 24 credit points of project work and 24 credit points of coursework.

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