Science and Technology Studies M.S.

This program is designed for students with undergraduate training in the natural and social sciences, engineering, or humanities and social sciences. In addition, many entering students have substantial career experience relevant to this program.

Completing the M.S. degree in STS requires 30 credit hours, including a six-credit-hour master’s thesis or internship. Among the required core courses are STSS 6010 Concepts in Science and Technology Studies, STSS 6110 Research Methods for STS, STSS 6020 Research Seminar, and STSH 6020 Values and Policy. Also required is one additional 6000-level STS seminar (or an independent readings course with three or more students enrolled).

The program offers an opportunity to take technical courses in other Rensselaer departments that are relevant to the student’s Plan of Study. It also offers substantial individual consultation and flexibility in designing course work and developing the thesis/internship option. Students normally obtain the M.S. as part of earning a Ph.D. at Rensselaer, not as a free-standing degree.