Science and Technology Studies (STS)

The STS Master’s program primarily deals with the conditions and consequences of scientific and technological knowledge production and dissemination in radically technologized societies. Thanks to the interdisciplinary orientation of the program, STS students benefit from theories and research methods from various fields (e.g. social sciences, philosophy, and the humanities) and can apply these to actual techno-scientific problems in a critical and problem-oriented manner. The program conveys the necessary reflexive, collaborative, and communicative skills and tackles questions such as: How can we understand scientific and technological change? How do science, technology and society influence and shape each other? Which inter- or transdisciplinary forms of knowledge production are necessary? How do science and technology differ across regulatory, cultural and policy contexts? It offers a research-oriented graduate education in the flourishing field of Science and Technology Studies for students interested in a comprehensive social science perspective in today’s highly technologized societies. For a comprehensive description of the program, please refer to the degree program documentation: Degree program documentation for the Master’s program in Science and Technology Studies (PDF, German ) Which further expertise and skills will I acquire? Students gain in-depth exposure to interdisciplinary approaches to urgent questions about the ever-changing interplay between science, technology and society. STS offers empirical research methods and analytical skills to study the conditions and consequences of contemporary developments in science and technology. In addition, the program offers optional specializations in the Philosophy of Science and Technology or the History of Science and Technology. Due to its interdisciplinary orientation, graduates can benefit from theories, methods and a variety of research aspects, e.g. from social sciences, philosophy or the humanities, and are able to apply these to actual techno-scientific problems in a critical and diagnostic way with a focus on problem-solving. The study program mediates the necessary reflexive, collaborative and communicative competencies. Which professional opportunities can I take up with this qualification? STS graduates will be able to work in a range of fields including academic research (such as a PhD program) as well as careers in science and technology policy, communication, journalism and management. Program structure The mandatory courses in the first semester are intended to convey a common knowledge base in the field of STS. This allows all students to develop a fundamental understanding and common vocabulary. The modules are structured in such a way as to allow all students to bring background knowledge from their Bachelor’s studies into the discussions, and simultaneously benefit from the previous knowledge of their classmates. In the second semester , students elect courses from a list of core topics and can begin focusing on a particular field of STS research. Furthermore, methodological training is intensified. The module “STS-MINT” helps students to develop original reflexive perspectives on STEM fields. In this module, students visit courses from STEM fields and reflect on the social, ethical and political aspects of their acquired knowledge. Further explanation and specialization is provided in accompanying tutorials given by research assistants. Students with a background in the humanities or social sciences may visit introductory courses in STEM fields, whereas students who already have a STEM background can elect advanced courses. In the third semester , students elect courses from a list of advanced topics and can continue focusing on a particular field of research. The module “Practicing Research” helps students learn how to develop research projects and prepares them for their Master’s thesis. The fourth semester is devoted to the preparation of a Master’s thesis accompanied by a colloquium. Overview degree program structure Program structure: Overview of modules Language of instruction Required language skills for admission: You need sufficient English language skills if you wish to apply for this program. Evidence of your language proficiency has to be submitted before the end of the application deadline. Learn more about recognized certificates and other ways to prove your English language skills . This evidence of your language proficiency confirms that you comply with the minimum language requirements for admission to the program. Depending on the program and your individual background, it may be necessary for you to keep working on your language skills during your studies. Be sure to take a look at the services of our Language Center. Language of instruction: The language of instruction for this program is English. Information on study organization Contact Examination Board Chair: Prof. Dr. Christian Djeffal Secretary: Hedi Schmid Information on exams Information on studying abroad Fees for the program The tuition fees for international students from third countries for this degree program are 4,000 euros per semester . Many international students can have their fees waived or receive scholarships to finance them. You can find all information on waivers and scholarships here. Please note: The semester fee as a contribution to the student union must be paid additionally. It varies depending on where you are studying. You can find all information on the semester fee here. Academic Regulations:

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