Doctorate of Philosophy in Science and Technology in Society

The Ph.D. in Science and Technology studies explores the relationship between science, technology, and society using a variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches. Research in STS analyzes how society affects the development and implementation of scientific, technological, and medical knowledges and practices and how these pursuits affect society. The research and scholarly interests of STS faculty cross a wide range of disciplinary boundaries: some rely on fieldwork, others are immersed in historical or governmental archival research, while others develop social and conceptual analyses to answer theoretical or ethical questions.
We analyze how society affects the development and implementation of scientific, technological, and medical knowledges and practices and how these pursuits affect society.
The research and scholarly interests of our faculty cross a wide range of disciplinary boundaries.
The graduate program in STS at Virginia Tech prepares students to be productive and publicly-engaged scholars, advancing research.
Our program offers two options to accomodate part-time or full-time enrollment.
All classes are taught in small seminars and offer personal interaction with faculty and peers.
Students conduct research that integrates science and technology with societal institutions, norms, and practices.
All classes are taught in small seminars and offer personal interaction with faculty and peers. Students from all academic and professional backgrounds are welcome.

Admission to the Graduate School is contingent upon receipt of a four year (or 3 year degree recognized by the Bologna process) bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university and the presentation of evidence of potential to pursue graduate work.

Minimum GPA: 3.0

Testing Requirements:

TOEFL Paper 577.0

iBT 90.0

Computer 233.0

A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is required for admission.

Application Deadlines: Fall: April 1; Spring: September 1; Summer I: Jan 1; Summer II: Feb 1.