Study programme

The specialisation Science in Society brings together Radboud University students from all disciplines within our Faculty of Science. You’ll go on to learn about other stakeholders like government officials, politicians, businessmen and the general public. You’ll come to understand the influence that the public opinion and media can have on how social issues are tackled.

The specific content of this specialisation really starts in the second year of your Master’s. Once the second year starts, you can choose between a social science track and a philosophical-reflective track (see below).

Although we advise you to enrol in this specialisation as soon as possible, it’s possible to switch to this specialisation at any time during your first year.

Curriculum

Curriculum of Science in Society

During your first year, you focus on either Biology, Computing Science, Mathematics, Medical Biology, Molecular Sciences or Physics and Astronomy, depending on the Master's programme that you follow. The specific content of Science in Society starts in the second year of your Master’s programme, which consists of compulsory courses, electives and a research project.

View curriculum

Study abroad

During your Master's programme, you will have the opportunity to go abroad for your studies, internship and/or thesis. You will learn to look at things from the perspective of a different culture and you will meet new people; it is an experience that will enrich your life. What’s more, it will look great on your CV. Please see the Radboud International web page for information about meetings, scholarships, internships and other practical information.

Additional challenge

Do you want an extra challenge during your studies? Do you find it interesting to think about current, social themes from different academic perspectives? Discover what the Radboud Honours Academy has to offer to achieve your maximum potential during your time as a student.

Tracks

Science and Societal Interaction

In Science and Societal Interaction, you will be introduced to current themes and theories about the relationship between science, society, politics and policy. Examples include framing, citizen participation, good science and responsible research. You will develop skills to empirically investigate important aspects of social phenomena and the role of science and other types of knowledge therein.

Philosophies and worldviews

In Philosophies and worldviews you will learn to reflect on social developments in the field of science, politics and society from a philosophical point of view. In doing so, you will distance yourself from the delusion of the day in order to understand problems and promises of citizen participation, the ethics of science in today's society, the meaning of values in scientific research and the application of scientific knowledge.