Michigan State University

What you'll study

The programme brings together courses in the history and philosophy of science, technology studies (STS) theory, public policy, ethics, and empirical research methods. You will study how technologies are developed, regulated and used in social contexts, and learn to evaluate their impacts on communities, institutions and the environment.

Typical core topics and modules include:

• Foundations of Science, Technology and Society – STS theory and key concepts.
• History of Science and Technology – historical case studies of technological change.
• Technology and Public Policy – regulation, governance and policy analysis.
• Ethics of Technology – ethical frameworks for emerging technologies (AI, biomedicine, surveillance).
• Research Methods – qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews, ethnography, and social data analysis.
• Design, Innovation and Society – user-centred design, socio-technical systems and responsible innovation.
• Capstone Project or Senior Seminar – applied, semester-long research or practicum synthesising coursework.

Students combine these core courses with electives drawn from departments such as computer science, engineering, sociology, political science, history, anthropology and communication. Many students personalise their degree with a minor or concentration (for example in data analytics, environmental studies, or science communication) and undertake internships with organisations in the Lansing–Detroit region, non-profits, government agencies or industry.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Science, Technology and Society follows Michigan State University's undergraduate entry process. Prospective students should hold a recognised secondary school diploma with a strong academic record. Recommended preparatory subjects include mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences and English.

Typical application components include a secondary school transcript, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency (for example IELTS or TOEFL) is normally required unless exempt by university policy. Transfer applicants are evaluated on college-level coursework and credits; advanced standing may be possible for completed STEM or humanities courses.

Career prospects

Graduates acquire analytical, research and communication skills valued across sectors. Common career paths include:

• Technology policy and regulation roles in government or think tanks.
• Ethics and governance positions in technology companies or research institutions.
• User experience research, product strategy and design roles that bridge technical and social considerations.
• Consulting, programme management and roles in non-governmental organisations focused on technology and development.
• Public engagement, science communication and roles in museums, media or education.

Many graduates also go on to further study in STS, public policy, law, information studies or specialised technical fields where social and ethical expertise around technology is an asset.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State offers the programme within an interdisciplinary environment that draws faculty from humanities, social sciences and STEM departments, providing broad intellectual perspectives on technology and society. The university's colleges and centres support hands-on learning through research projects, community partnerships and internship connections across the Great Lakes region.

Students benefit from small seminar-style classes for advanced STS topics, opportunities for collaborative research with faculty, and institutional resources such as the university libraries and computing facilities. The programme's emphasis on applied capstone work and regional engagement helps students build practical experience and professional networks that support diverse career trajectories.