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Department of History and Philosophy of Science

 
Pocket globe by Darton and Co, 1811 (Whipple Museum)

If you are interested in studying for an MPhil or PhD in History and Philosophy of Science at Cambridge, these pages are for you.

Here you will find an introduction to the Department, the courses and the application process, with links to further information on the University's Postgraduate Admissions website.

Applicants can choose from three options:

MPhil in History and Philosophy of Science and Medicine

This MPhil (Master of Philosophy) provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to explore topics across history and philosophy of science and medicine, laying deep foundations for further study, work and public involvement. The course is taught by lectures, seminars and supervisions, and assessed by research essays and a dissertation.

MPhil in Health, Medicine and Society

This MPhil course – run jointly with the Departments of Social Anthropology and Sociology – offers a uniquely interdisciplinary approach to teaching and research on health, medicine and society. No other programme can match Cambridge's breadth and concentration of expertise in this rapidly expanding and exciting subject area.

PhD in History and Philosophy of Science

The PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a research degree. Applicants will be admitted directly to the PhD only if they already have an exceptionally strong background in the field – usually through the MPhil or Part III course in this department or a similar course at another university – and an appropriate and focused research proposal.

Virtual tour

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Have a look inside the Department.

Main image: Three-inch pocket globe in case with celestial sphere, by Darton and Co, 1811
Image credit: Whipple Museum of the History of Science, University of Cambridge