How do I apply to the history of science program? 
The Office for History of Science and Technology does not grant degrees directly. Most students intending to study the history of science at Berkeley apply to the History Department's MA/PhD program and choose History of Science as their field of concentration.
If I apply to the Berkeley History Department, how is the history of science program structured?
Berkeley history students take courses in two fields of study in the History Department, typically history of science and a geographical/chronological field (e.g., U.S., early modern Europe, East Asia - Japan). They also study a third, "outside" field in another department. This can be a science, a humanities/social science discipline, a professional field (such as public policy), or any other course of study offered at Berkeley. The outside field allows them to gain an interdisciplinary perspective.
If I am in another department, how can I draw on the resources of history of science?
All Berkeley doctoral programs require you to make contacts outside your home department. You can choose history for your "outside" field and work with a professor in the history of science. You can take courses, prepare an oral examination field, and have a historian of science on your dissertation committee.
At Berkeley, I would get a PhD in, say, History, rather than the PhD in History of Science offered by some other universities. Does this matter?
In some ways yes, in some ways no. Berkeley graduates are trained in their larger discipline as well as history of science. This gives them access to wider intellectual circles. After graduation, the strength of their home department (at Berkeley, typically one of the top-ranked programs in the nation) also helps them in their job search. The History degree has never disadvantaged our students in the history of science field.
I want to study a topic which doesn't correspond perfectly to a specific professor's area of expertise. Is this a problem?
No, professors welcome students with interests different from their own. However, if your topic is widely distant from current faculty strengths -- in chronological, geographical, or disciplinary terms -- you may need more information to make a decision. When in doubt, just e-mail the professor with your question.
Is it possible to study the history of science if I don't have a historical background?
Yes. About half our graduate students come from science, philosophy, or other backgrounds. There is time during your coursework to fill in gaps in your preparation. In composing your application, address your background directly. A persuasive statement of purpose and relevant writing sample will help your application.
What are Berkeley's other attractions?
Besides a scenic setting, fantastic cultural and recreational opportunities, and exceptional weather? UC Berkeley is known for academic strength across the board. At Berkeley you can study more foreign languages than anywhere else in the country, take courses in an exceptional number of top-ranked graduate and professional programs, and encounter an amazing diversity of scholars. For more information, ask Diana Wear to put you in contact with our current students, or e-mail them directly.
