Why study Science in Society in Nijmegen?
Science and technology have a profound influence on society. The reverse is also true: society shapes the ways in which science and technology evolve. The COVID-19 pandemic recently showed how important this link is: universities and research institutions rely on public support, while businesses and governments require scientific knowledge. Therefore, scientific experts greatly benefit from a deep understanding of social processes. In this one-year specialisation (combined with another Master's programme), science students deepen their understanding of science, while specialising in ethical and societal questions that connect science and society.
Why study Science in Society?
- You will further deepen your knowledge in your scientific field in the first year and then learn to critically reflect on scientific knowledge and connect it with divergent perspectives and interests of various stakeholders in your second year.
- You can focus on topics of your interest: the specialisation combines social science, philosophical and ethical approaches to analysing science and society. This allows you to learn about societal issues, collaboration with actors outside of academia, scientific and ethical norms of research and the philosophical basis of scientific knowledge. In the programme there is ample opportunity to shape the curriculum to fit your interests in any of these themes.
- The specialisation is closely connected to the Institute for Science in Society (ISiS). The institute brings together a group of experts from various disciplines and backgrounds in order to jointly tackle issues at the interface of science and society.
- You get to take classes with students from all natural and computer scientific fields.
- Our student advisors are known for their approachability, quick responses, and for truly thinking along with you. Their commitment is unmatched! Don't hesitate to contact us with any questions.
- You will get to work in positions that deal with complex real-world issues, combining your scientific background with the analytical and communicative skills developed during your specialisation in Science in Society. These positions can be both within and outside of the university, with opportunities for graduation projects at many diverse organisations.
Do you want to know more about what Radboud University has to offer?
In our Science in Society programme
- You critically examine the science-society relationship.
- You customise your learning to your interests.
- You develop versatile professional skills.