Interdisciplinary Studies of Science (ISoS)

The "Interdisciplinary Studies of Science (ISoS)" Master's programme at Bielefeld University offers a course of study that aims to bring out essential characteristics of science. The objective is to analyse the ways in which science produces knowledge, the institutional framework and economic structure of science, and the ways in which science is part of a changing social context both in the past and at present. This analysis requires linking various disciplinary perspectives. The sociology of science analyses the interrelations between science and its societal context. The philosophy of science focuses on the epistemic aspects of justifying knowledge claims and cognitive rationality. It puts special emphasis on the ethical aspect of responsibility. The history of science traces the historical development of science in its continuities and ruptures and analyses the ways in which this is significant to the economy and society. These disciplinary approaches complement each other, and together, they contribute to a better understanding of science. The programme begins with an introductory module in which students become acquainted with the approaches to the subject of science, which have partially emerged separately from each other in the disciplines of the history, philosophy, and social studies of science. A second module from an empirical science (the "object discipline" module) is added to this introductory module. Three main modules follow. These are dedicated to the development of science, to science and society, and the methods of science, respectively. One semester is spent at a partner institution abroad. Moreover, an internship of six weeks is required. The programme is completed with a Master's thesis. Non-native German speakers must present proof of German language skills at the level of B1 before they can apply for the Master's certificate at the registrar's office. Recommended course of study: The programme can be entered in either the winter semester or the summer semester. However, it is designed for entrance in the winter semester. In the first semester, the introductory module should be completed and the main module, "object disciplines", should be started. The second and third semesters should be devoted to the three main modules and the completion of "object disciplines", and the fourth semester should be dedicated to the writing of the Master's thesis. If the programme is entered in the summer semester, the duration of study is likely to increase.