Science and technology have a profound influence on society, but the reverse is also true: society significantly shapes the ways in which science and technology evolve. However, experience shows that scientists on the one hand and the general public, government and businesses on the other aren’t always able to clearly understand one another. That is why experts with a background in science and an understanding of social processes are indispensable. This specialisation will equip you with the knowledge, tools and skills to be a professional intermediary between science and society whilst getting a broader societal perspective.

Science in Society: Something for you?

• Deepen your scientific knowledge from a social science perspective
• Connect scientific knowledge with divergent perspectives and interests of various stakeholders
• Work with students from various disciplines and backgrounds
• Research complex real-world issues

What will you learn?

This specialisation will teach you the skills and knowledge you’ll need to build a bridge between scientific expertise and societal practices. The issues you’ll deal with in the future will be connected to your own scientific background. Therefore, you’ll become a biologist, chemist, mathematician, etc. that can reflect on the implications of scientific results and can give advice on how to turn this knowledge into practical use for policymaking or communication purposes. This reflection will not just be scientific; you’ll also learn how to detect the philosophical, political and ethical side of scientific developments. You’ll make scientists familiar with social perceptions as much as you’ll be advising governments and businesses or informing the general public on scientific matters.