Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate

This Certificate is primarily for students who are already majoring or minoring in a science field such as the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, psychology or cognitive science. Courses provide philosophical insight into questions concerning the methodology and practice of science.

Specialized courses help students acquire core critical and philosophical reasoning skills to enhance the study of science in general. Students learn to:

• read difficult texts to discern key points and argumentative structure 
• produce concise, focused writing that develops lucid and original arguments with clarity
• listen and respond to points presented during constructive discussion

Clear thinking—clear writing—clear speaking...all part of being a scientist!

"In looking for a new foundation, [the scientist] must try to make clear in his own mind just how far the concepts which he uses are justified, and are necessities."  
Einstein, 1936

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Specialized Courses

PHIL 144 - Intro to Philosophy of Science
An introduction to philosophical issues concerning the nature of science.

PHIL 201 - Epistemology
A critical overview of recent accounts of the nature and scope of human knowledge and of justified or rational belief, and of philosophical issues that these accounts are intended to address.

PHIL 203 - Metaphysics
An examination of central problems of metaphysics such as space and time, universals and particulars, substance, identity and individuation and personal identity.

PHIL 341 - Philosophy of Science
A study of the nature of scientific enquiry, classificatory systems, laws and theories, the role of observation in science, the demarcation between science and non-science, causality, the status of theoretical constructs, and teleological explanation.

Elective Courses

Subject to change; for current requirements see Academic Calendar listing