Science, Technology and Society Studies

Overview

Key Features

You will acquire the skill of identifying and assessing, in a differentiated manner, the social conditions and effects of scientific and technological innovations. You will be able to recognise ‘hype’ surrounding new technologies or scientific breakthroughs, and intervene and arbitrate in public debates on the risks, ethical controversy or social desirability of innovations.

The Science, Technology and Society Studies programme from University of Klagenfurt , which runs for four semesters, is interdisciplinary in its approach and draws on theories and methods from social and cultural studies. Enrolled students will develop knowledge of the fundamental importance of science and technology to modern societies. The programme will prepare you for challenging jobs, in areas such as research and technology funding, political and corporate consultancy, EU and international administration, media, public relations, cultural organisations, technology assessment, and university and non-university research.

Upon completion, graduates of the Master's degree programme “Science, Technology & Society Studies” are able to:

• perform analyses of current problem areas and fields of conflict with regard to science, technology and innovation;
• comprehend interactions between scientific-technological developments and societal change;
• process insights from social-scientific science and technology research for the benefit of societal decision-making and design;
• apply the acquired skills in the strategic planning and project management of businesses and in public engagement processes; and
• contribute actively to scientific research projects.