Science and Technology Studies (PhD)

Tuition costs 29,500 USD per year.

Science and Technology Studies (PhD) is a graduate program focused on the historical and social analysis of science and engineering. It examines the social and cultural dimensions of science and technology through humanistic and social science traditions. Students conduct empirically-grounded research on science and technology in historical and contemporary contexts.

Focus areas include History and philosophy of science and technology, Social studies of science and technology.

The program requires introductory theoretical and methodological courses in history, philosophy, sociology, and politics of science and technology, plus a field seminar. Students must complete at least seven STS graduate-level courses by the end of their third year and are expected to enroll in a research course each semester through graduation. The minimum duration for the degree is 10 semesters.

Applicants should have some background in history, philosophy, sociology, or politics, with familiarity with science and technology studies being desirable. English language proficiency requirements are higher than the Graduate School's standard, requiring Tier A language scores. Required documents include an academic statement of purpose, personal statement, college transcripts, resume/CV, three letters of recommendation, and a 20-30 page writing sample.

On-campus. Location: Ithaca, NY. Minimum duration: 10 semesters. For international students, tuition is above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 8% of applicants.

Cornell University, founded in 1865 in Ithaca, New York, is an Ivy League research university that blends rigorous scholarship with broad public engagement. As both a privately endowed institution and New York State's statutory land-grant university, Cornell brings together liberal arts, engineering, agriculture, and professional schools to offer wide academic choice across more than twenty colleges and programs. Its historic mission emphasizes teaching, research, and service, making Cornell a global destination for students seeking depth and interdisciplinary opportunity.

Academically, Cornell is known for high-impact research across the sciences, humanities, and applied fields. With about 25,582 students and over 6,200 international learners, the campus provides extensive resources including research centers, interdisciplinary institutes, and industry partnerships that support undergraduate and graduate training. Students benefit from hands-on learning, internship networks, and faculty mentorship that often include international collaborations and community-engaged projects.

Life in Ithaca balances scenic natural spaces with a lively arts and dining scene and strong student services, from career counseling to study abroad advising. Residential options, student clubs, and entrepreneurial hubs help newcomers settle in and build professional pathways both in the United States and abroad. For international applicants seeking world-class research, wide program choice, and a community that values public service and innovation, Cornell offers a supportive and stimulating environment.