As society becomes more complex, the demand for experts continues to expand. In the one-year Master’s programme Contemporary Social Problems, you will be trained to become an expert on one important social theme. You choose one contemporary issue in which you will specialise:
- Crime and Safety
- Internet, Social Media and Networks
- Care, Policy and Organizations
You design your own track in this Master’s programme, in which you quickly and rigorously immerse yourself in your specialization. You will learn about the state-of-the-art in current scholarship. As an expert, you will also learn to think in multidisciplinary terms. In addition to sociology as your core subject, you will also take courses in the social psychology and social geography of your chosen theme, which allows you to further immerse yourself in your area of specialization.
Theory and practice
As an expert, you will also learn to translate theory into practice. You will learn to translate scientific knowledge into concrete advice for companies or effective policy for the government. You will also learn to present research results to a wider audience. Speakers from the field, working visits and your own internship project ensure you gain comprehensive knowledge of the practical context.
Objective of the programme
During this Master’s programme, you will be thoroughly trained to analyse and advise on contemporary social issues. You will therefore develop yourself into an academic professional and an expert on your chosen theme. In these themes, the boundary between public and private is often transcended, which means that once you complete the Master’s, you can work in both the private and (semi) public sectors. Potential careers include social science expert, applied researcher in the corporate world, policy advisor at a ministry or municipality, advisor, project coordinator or consultant.
Labour market
There is a significant focus on labour market orientation and your transition to the labour market following your studies. You will, for example, be put in contact with relevant organisations in the professional field in addition to learning the professional project, communication, advice and interview skills you will need in your career.