Philosophy of Science (Master of Arts)

Philosophy of Science (Master of Arts)

The study programme is developed around the observation that modern societies are increasingly influenced by scientific and technological developments. These developments have profound effects on social and political systems and on our understanding of ourselves. They thus need to be critically analyzed—a task to which philosophy is ideally suited. Philosophy involves reflection on the conceptual foundations of the sciences, and it can analyze the role of values in science and the sources of the special credibility of scientific results. This Master’s Programme aims to provide students with the ability to participate in critical reflection on the sciences.

The Master's Programme offers courses in core areas of contemporary philosophy, including metaphysics, epistemology, and philosophy of mind and moral and political philosophy. There is particular focus on the philosophy and ethics of science.

Course Content

• Comprehensive research-oriented training for philosophers
• Focus on ethics and epistemology of the natural sciences, life sciences, humanities and social sciences
  
  

Course Structure

The degree programme offers participants targeted specializations in different areas of philosophy of science, ethics and political philosophy as well as epistemology and metaphysics. In addition, philosophical core competencies (e.g., research and presentation skills) are also taught, and students are introduced to cutting-edge research topics.

The degree programme consists of required and elective modules (see below). In addition to required modules, students select two modules from the following required elective modules:

• Ethics and Philosophy of Science (2 Courses)
  
• History and the Philosophy of Human Sciences (2 Courses)
  
• Philosophy of the Life Sciences (2 Courses)
  
• Philosophy of the Physical Sciences (2 Courses)
  
  

Recommended Abilities

This programme is suited to students who have completed their undergraduate studies in philosophy or a closely related subject (whether as a major or a minor), and wish to expand and deepen their philosophical education, with a special focus on questions in philosophy of science.

Career Opportunities

• A university career in philosophy
• Research management at higher education institutions and research institutes
• Work for government agencies (particularly in the fields of science, research, education, technology, the environment, health and social matters)
• Committees (particularly ethics committees)
• Involvement in funding bodies, private foundations and associations
• Publishing, media, freelance journalism and consultancy

Further information on the website of the programme Philosophy of Science