Sample Courses:
  • HST-138. Big History. An exploration of the past from the Big Bang to the present, dividing the history of the universe, earth, life and humanity into very large scales of time.
  • HST-193. Science, Medicine and Technology in Culture. Based on case studies ordered chronologically from prehistory to the present, with each of the sciences and branches of engineering represented.
  • HST-242. The Scientific Revolution, 1400-1700. An examination of the fundamental reorientation in the study of nature that gave rise to modern science; focus on contributions of Copernicus, Galileo, Descartes and Newton.
  • PHL-232. Philosophy of Science. Introduction to scientific theories, how they are tested, and scientific method, approached philosophically and through formal techniques.
  • PHL-247. Technology and Human Values. An examination of challenges posed by emerging technologies to traditional conceptions and values.
  • SOC-228. Sociology of Medicine. Sociological perspectives on health, illness, the health professions and institutions
After Union:
After Union
  • Analytical Scientist, Momentive Performances Materials
  • Senior Research Chemist, Nalco Chemical Company
  • Assistant Professor, Duke University
  • Physician, Christiana Care
  • Fuel Cell and Battery Patent Examiner, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
  • Science Teacher, Cohoes High School
  • Chemist, NuLabel Technologies
  • Senior Scientist, Base Pair Biotechnologies
  • Chemical Research Scientist, Roche Pharmaceutical

Science, Medicine, and Technology in Culture

In today’s society, science, medicine and technology all play critical roles. You can explore the complexities and dimensions of these roles by focusing your studies on Science, Medicine and Technology in Culture (SMT).

This major is ideal for science or engineering students who want to place their interests in a social context. It is also an excellent choice for students of the humanities or social sciences who would like to study the social consequences of science and engineering.

SMT students choose courses from among 18 different disciplines, ranging from Anthropology and Astronomy to Psychology and Sociology. Core courses address such topics as the scientific revolution, the philosophy of science, technology and human values, and the sociology of medicine.

This cross-disciplinary academic program offered within the context of a small liberal arts setting engages students in some of the most pressing issues facing the modern age.