History and Philosophy of Science, Certificate
Explore how scientific ideas and philosophical thought have shaped the world. In this certificate, you investigate the origins of scientific discoveries, analyze how theories developed over time and examine how cultural and ethical contexts influence knowledge.
Quick facts
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Additional facts
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Certificate description
History and Philosophy of Science undergraduate certificate description
In the history and philosophy of science undergraduate certificate program, you explore central questions about the nature of science and how it develops and changes.
You examine how scientific claims are justified, and you investigate the social and moral implications of the changing scientific landscape as well as major landmarks in the development of science. You develop the skills to recognize and articulate scientific reasoning, gaining a deeper understanding of how the science of any era is shaped by prior events.
Why earn a history and philosophy of science undergraduate certificate at ASU?
This undergraduate certificate at ASU connects philosophical and historical analysis directly to scientific practice. You study within a major research university where interdisciplinary work bridges science, history and philosophy in ways that help you understand how science develops and impacts society across multiple fields, and you'll strengthen your critical thinking and analytical abilities while gaining philosophical and historical perspectives that complement studies in the sciences, humanities, health fields, law, education and public policy.
You learn to recognize and articulate scientific reasoning while examining how the science of any era is shaped by prior events. The certificate equips you to analyze complex ideas, evaluate evidence and consider multiple perspectives on scientific and philosophical questions in ways that prepare you for careers and academic work where context matters as much as content.
Additional details
You can explore student life opportunities through the School of Life Sciences, where you'll find clubs, events and connections that extend your learning beyond coursework. The certificate enhances your communication, research, reasoning and ethical analysis skills in ways that are valued across professional and academic settings.
Courses
This undergraduate certificate includes courses focused on a specialized topic, so you can advance your skills for further professional opportunities. Explore all courses below:
2026-2027 Catalog Year
The certificate requires 18 credit hours. A "C" minimum is required for all courses in the certificate, although students must maintain a 3.00 GPA in the post-baccalaureate certificate program.
| Requirement | Minimum grade | Credit hours |
|---|---|---|
|
The certificate in History & Philosophy of Science requires 18 credit hours, of which 12 credit hours must be upper division. A minimum of six upper-division credit hours must be taken from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. When selecting courses, the college offering the course can be identified by viewing the course details in Class Search. Only courses completed with a grade of "C" (2.00 on a scale of 4.00) or better can be used to satisfy certificate requirements. |
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PHI 314 Philosophy of Science
(HUAD)
or
HPS 314 Philosophy of Science
(HUAD)
3 credit hours
Minimum
grade:C
|
C | 3 |
|
Upper Division
HPS Elective
9 credit hours
Minimum
grade:C
|
C | 9 |
|
6 credit hours
Minimum
grade:C
|
C | 6 |
|
Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this certificate.
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What you'll learn
The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.
- Present historical and philosophical perspectives on science.
- Critically communicate research at the intersections of history and philosophy in science.
Present historical and philosophical perspectives on science. Enrollment requirements
A student pursuing an undergraduate certificate must be enrolled as a degree-seeking student at ASU. Undergraduate certificates are not awarded before the completion of an undergraduate degree. A student who already holds an undergraduate degree may pursue an undergraduate certificate as a nondegree-seeking graduate student.
Here are the admission and application details
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimateCareer opportunities
Careers this history and philosophy of science undergraduate certificate prepares you for
There is a growing need for innovation in public health and scientific advancement. Graduates of this certificate program have acquired critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities that are in high demand to address this need.
Graduates who have combined this program with a major program of study are well prepared for roles in a variety of fields, including biology, medicine, law and ethics. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic, government or clinical positions.
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
School of Life Sciences
|
LSC 104
sols.advising@asu.edu
480-727-6277
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
