History of Science and Medicine
The Bachelor of Arts in History of Science and Medicine at University of Stanford offers students an interdisciplinary approach to understanding how scientific ideas, medical practices, and technological developments have shaped human societies over time. In the early years, learners explore foundational concepts in the history of science, medicine, and technology, examining the social, cultural, and intellectual contexts that influenced discoveries and medical practices. These courses help students develop historical analysis, critical reasoning, contextual understanding, and research skills, enabling them to assess how scientific knowledge evolves and impacts society. By studying both scientific and medical histories, students gain insight into the interplay between ideas, institutions, and human experience.
As students progress into advanced coursework, they engage with topics such as the development of modern medicine, public health history, medical ethics, and the historical evolution of scientific methodologies. The program emphasizes archival research, historiography, and interdisciplinary analysis, giving students the tools to interpret primary sources and contextualize discoveries. Through seminars, research projects, and faculty mentorship, learners refine their analytical depth, research methodology, scholarly interpretation, and historical perspective, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to academic scholarship, museum curation, public history, or policy analysis. Graduates leave with a strong understanding of the historical foundations of science and medicine, equipped to engage critically with contemporary scientific and healthcare issues.
Key information
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Key Facts
- Program Title: History of Science and Medicine
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Stanford University, United States
- Field of Study: History
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in History of Science and Medicine
• Introduction to History of Science
• Fundamentals of Medicine in Historical Context
• Scientific Thought and Society
• Writing and Research in the Humanities
• History of Ideas and Intellectual Traditions
Year 2 – Core Themes in Science and Medicine
• Medicine, Disease, and Society
• Scientific Revolutions and Methodology
• Ethics and Philosophy of Science
• Quantitative Methods for Historical Analysis
• Seminar: Key Figures and Events in Science
Year 3 – Advanced Historical Analysis
• History of Modern Medicine
• Technology and Scientific Innovation
• Epidemiology and Public Health History
• Archival and Primary Source Research
• Electives in Specialized Historical Studies
Year 4 – Research, Specialization, and Capstone
• Senior Thesis or Research Project
• Advanced Seminar in Science and Medicine
• Topics in Medical History
• Historical Perspectives on Science Policy
• Specialized Electives in Science and Medicine
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, museums, healthcare policy, publishing, and science communication. The curriculum develops critical analysis, historical interpretation, research proficiency, and contextual awareness, equipping students to work as historians of science, museum curators, research assistants, policy analysts, or science writers. The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies in history, medical humanities, science studies, or public health research.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who wish to explore the evolution of scientific thought and medical practices and their impact on society. Its curriculum emphasizes analytical reasoning, historical inquiry, evidence-based interpretation, and interdisciplinary perspective, allowing learners to understand complex developments over time. Through research projects, seminars, and archival study, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to critically evaluate the intersection of science, medicine, and society, preparing them for both professional careers and further academic study.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 650 000 0000
Email: admissions@standord.edu
Address: University of Standord, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305, United States
