Taught Masters Programme in the History and Philosophy of Science and Medicine

Welcome to the homepage for Durham University's Taught Masters (MA) in the History and Philosophy of Science and Medicine (HPSM).  The programme draws from an internationally recognised group of academics based in the Department of Philosophy, the Centre for the History of Medicine and Disease (CHMD), and the School of Medicine and Health.

This one-year ( two years part-time) programme combines historical and philosophical approaches to medicine and science.  In particular, it provides students with a deeper understanding of historical, cultural and philosophical issues in science and medicine from Antiquity up to the present day.  One of its primary aims is to show students how the humanities are relevant to a deeper understanding of past and present medical and scientific issues.  The breadth of the course's methods ranges from socio-cultural models to analytical approaches.

The HPSM Programme will give students the skills necessary for inter- and trans-disciplinary work that can be applied to future doctoral studies as well as to a broad range of other applications within the media, the public sector, NGOs, etc.