Science, Technology, and Society

STS 2101 examines the relationships of engineering, technology, and society, with a specific focus on the multiple forms of expertise required for socially responsible engineering practice and career advancement, including (1) sociotechnical systems thinking, (2) ethical awareness, and (3) the ability to communicate and collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders in both formal and informal settings.

The mission of UVA - SEAS is "to make the world a better place by creating and disseminating knowledge and by preparing engineering leaders to solve global challenges." In alignment with that mission, this course seeks to equip undergraduates with knowledge, understanding, and practice to prepare them for ethical leadership now, as students, and for their future as engineering leaders. Prerequisite 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year Engineering Student

This course engages students with the idea that success in posing and solving engineering problems requires attention to the social dimensions of professional endeavors and practice. STS theories and methods are applied to student thesis projects. Students produce a prospectus for the undregraduate thesis project. Students must be in residence to take this course. Students are not permitted to take STS 4500 and STS 4600 simultaneously. Prereq: STS 2600 and STS 2000 or STS 3000 level (or writing requirement equivalent) course. 4th Year Engineering or by instructor permission for early graduation.

This course focuses on ethical issues in engineering. The key theme is that ethics is central to engineering practice. The professional responsibilities of engineers are examined. Students produce an STS Research paper linked to their technical thesis project and complete all of the requirements for the undergraduate thesis. Students must be in residence to take this course. Students are not permitted to take STS 4500 and STS 4600 simultaneously. Prerequisites: STS 4500.