HPSC1901 What is This Thing Called Science? (Adv) (University of Sydney): rated 4.3/5 overall across 2 reviews collected on USYD Wall.
HPSC1901 is a University of Sydney course taught by the Faculty of Science in History and Philosophy of Science Academic Operations. This page brings together its handbook details and what USYD students say about it.
Review data updated 2026-10-24.
Chinese title: 何谓科学？（高级）
Type: Undergraduate
Credit points: 6
Subject area: History and Philosophy of Science Academic Operations
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Level: Undergraduate Level 1
Handbook year: 2026
This Unit of Study explores the very nature of science and how it is practised. Using contemporary and historical scientific examples, the unit looks into whether a sharp line can be drawn between science and non-science, and what criteria can be used to distinguish science from pseudoscience.
HPSC1901 has 2 scored reviews: overall 4.3/5 (all out of 5; higher difficulty means harder).
Sources: 2 Reddit comments that an AI model judged to be reviewing this course (average would-recommend 4.3/5).
On Reddit: "Hey! I did HPSC1901 years ago and the lectures were the same as the normal unit. Only difference was we were in a separate tutorial so had what I would describe as more intense and deep discussions. I'm pretty sure we had different assignment topics that were slightly more advan…"
On Reddit: "i did hpsc1901 and it was my favourite unit. if you do meet the requirement of a 90+ atar, i would highly recommend you consider the ‘advanced’ course. content is the same - you share lectures. the difference is that you have your own small tute and the assessment is slightly di…"
The course panel on USYD Wall shows every review and discussion in full.
Q: Is HPSC1901 worth taking?
A: Averaged over 2 reviews: overall 4.3/5. Only a few reviews so far, so treat this as a rough guide.
Q: Which faculty teaches HPSC1901, and when is it offered?
A: HPSC1901 is taught by the Faculty of Science. Check the official handbook for the current year.
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