.png&w=1920&q=75)
Science, Technology, and Society
The Bachelor of Arts in Science, Technology, and Society at Brown University offers students a multidisciplinary examination of how science and technology shape and are shaped by social, cultural, economic, and political forces. The program emphasizes the interplay between scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and societal values, providing students with a critical understanding of contemporary challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, biomedical ethics, and emerging technologies. Students develop the skills to evaluate the impact of technological systems on human behavior and public policy while learning to assess how social dynamics influence scientific research and technological development.
Throughout the program, students engage with coursework that combines sociology, history of science, philosophy, and policy studies, fostering analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and research skills. Fieldwork, laboratory visits, case studies, and collaborative projects provide practical insights into how scientific and technological advances operate within real-world contexts. The curriculum encourages students to investigate ethical questions, regulatory frameworks, and the social consequences of innovation, preparing graduates to understand complex technological systems, communicate findings effectively, and engage thoughtfully with societal challenges.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Science, Technology, and Society
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Brown University, United States
- Field of Study: Sociology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Science and Society
• Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society
• Sociology of Knowledge and Science
• History of Scientific Revolutions
• Academic Writing and Critical Thinking
Year 2 – Core Themes and Analytical Tools
• Technology and Social Change
• Science, Ethics, and Public Policy
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods
• Elective: Environmental Studies or Digital Society
Year 3 – Applied Studies and Research
• Technology and Innovation in Society
• Science, Medicine, and Ethics
• Field Research or Internship
• Elective: Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, or Energy Policy
Year 4 – Capstone and Integration
• Senior Seminar in Science, Technology, and Society
• Independent Research or Thesis Project
• Advanced Topics in Technology Governance
• Elective: Global Science Policy or Sociology of Technology
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Science, Technology, and Society program are equipped with a unique combination of analytical skills, critical reasoning, and interdisciplinary insight, preparing them for careers that bridge technology and society. Many find opportunities in policy analysis, science communication, technology consulting, public administration, and non-profit organizations, where understanding the societal implications of scientific and technological developments is crucial. Others pursue roles in research institutions, corporate strategy, environmental agencies, or international organizations, applying their expertise to evaluate and guide innovation responsibly. The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies in public policy, science and technology studies, sociology, or ethics, enabling graduates to contribute to complex decision-making processes that affect society at local, national, and global levels.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a distinctive educational experience that emphasizes critical inquiry, interdisciplinary research, and practical engagement with real-world technological and societal issues. Students are encouraged to analyze the social, ethical, and political dimensions of scientific and technological developments, equipping them with the tools to address challenges such as digital transformation, bioethics, and climate policy. Faculty mentorship, collaborative projects, and hands-on research opportunities allow students to apply theory to practice while cultivating intellectual independence. Graduates emerge with the analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills needed to navigate complex intersections of science, technology, and society, making this program ideal for those seeking to influence policy, research, and innovation in meaningful and responsible ways.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States
