Overview
STS is the study of relationships between science, technology and society. Complex issues face our world today, from digital surveillance and information manipulation through AI, to challenges in sustainable food production. Our aim is to educate future scientists and responsible citizens to integrate scientific and technical competence with critical thinking, human values, and social and environmental responsibility. By studying STS you can:
Distinguish your degree
York Science is the only place in Canada that offers major and minor programs in Science, Technology and Society. You will study scientific knowledge and governance using tools from the social sciences, humanities, and cultural studies. You will work between disciplines in a way that prepares you for professional and graduate schools, teaching, journalism, policy making, and more.
Stand for science
A degree in STS allows you to understand about the rise of anti-science movements, how information is manipulated about science and technology, and how these problems can be tackled through strategic communication.
Pursue justice
You will learn about equity, diversity and inclusivity through examining local, national and global STEM controversies in past and present societies. Through STS, you will strengthen your scientific understanding and hone the skills you need to advocate for yourself and others.
STS Minor
A minor in STS can make your degree stand out. You can choose to minor in one of three specialties within STS: Life Sciences and Society (LSS), Technology, Innovation and Society (TIS) and Earth, Sustainability and Society (ESAS). Select courses for each minor include:
Life Sciences and Society (LSS)
- How Darwinism Developed: A History of Evolutionary Biology
- Genomics and Society
- Biomedicine and Society
- Science, Health and Food
Technology, Innovation and Society (TIS)
- The Global Information Society
- Technological Failure
- Technology, Experts and Society
- Science, Technology and Modern Warfare
Earth, Sustainability and Society (ESAS)
- Science and Exploration
- Physics in the 20th Century
- Science and Technology Issues in Global Development
- From the Ark to the Anthropocene
STS Major Options
Bachelor of Arts or Science (90 credits, normally over three years)
A flexible program offering you a broad range of studies in Science, Technology, and Society. The Bachelor of Science option includes studies in foundational science and math courses.
Honours Bachelor of Arts or Honours Bachelor of Science (120 credits, normally over four years)
A comprehensive four-year program in Science, Technology, and Society. The Honours Bachelor of Science option includes a range of studies in foundational math and science courses.
Honours Double Major Interdisciplinary Bachelor of Arts (120 credits, normally over four years)
An Hours program linking Science and Technology with any Honours Double Major Interdisciplinary BA program in the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies.
For a full description of possible degree paths, please reference the Academic Calendar
Careers
A degree from the Faculty of Science opens the door to many different pathways and opportunities. York Science offers an ideal learning environment to achieve your highest potential. Our programs are known for academic excellence, with professors who are committed to your success.
The Co-op and Career Centre at York offers support services to students looking to engage in experiential learning and career preparation, including co-op and internship workshops, resume help, interview prep, and much more.
Career Paths
- Education and teaching
- Green entrepreneurship
- Medicine and public health advocacy
- Non-profits and NGOs
- UX design
- Science and technology communication
- Science, medical and technical writing
- Museum management
- Science and technology researcher
- Professional and graduate school in many fields, including science and the arts