MA in History of Science, Medicine, and Technology in Madison United States | University of Wisconsin-Madison

As one of the nation's most venerable and distinguished academic programs, the History of Science, Medicine, and Technology (HSMT) brings together faculty from both History and Medical History and Bioethics departments. Our program boasts comprehensive expertise across Europe, the United States, Africa, and the Caribbean, covering periods from medieval times to modern history, and encompassing the physical, biological, and social sciences along with medicine and technology.

The HSMT degree program primarily serves PhD candidates, with funding exclusively available for doctoral students. We do consider applications from self-funded or externally sponsored MA candidates. Medical professionals with doctoral qualifications can pursue an MA in History of Medicine. Additionally, we offer a combined MD/PhD pathway through collaboration with the School of Medicine and Public Health's Medical Scientist Training Program.

UW-Madison's HSMT program is renowned for its academic breadth and supportive, collaborative atmosphere. Our curriculum examines all historical dimensions of science, medicine, and technology—from their core evolution to their connections with institutions, philosophy, religion, literature, print media, visual arts, and material culture. The program fosters intellectual exchange through weekly Brown Bag sessions and monthly colloquia, where students and faculty present research, discuss professional matters, and interact with visiting scholars.

Our graduate students arrive with diverse academic backgrounds in both sciences and humanities, pursuing varied career objectives. The program emphasizes adaptability, customizing degree requirements to individual needs. We actively encourage interdisciplinary studies, with opportunities to engage with history, philosophy, science and technology studies, and various scientific disciplines.