Linköping University: Ethics, Science, and Policy - Master's Programme
Sebastian Mense
Linköping University has recently launched a new master's program in Linköping. It is an international, English-language program called Ethics, Science, and Policy.
The program combines the philosophy of science and applied ethics with a focus on policy development and writing. Examples of courses included are The Philosophy of Policymaking, Scientific Modelling: Normative and Practical Aspects, The Ethics of Health Care Priority Setting, Decision Theory and Risk, and Taxation, Policy, and Philosophy. The master's thesis is written in the format of a journal article with the goal of being able to publish it in a journal after completing the program.
Core Skills Development
Evaluating and developing policies involves absorbing scientific findings for decision making, applying theoretical insights to practical situations, and understanding the consequences for those affected by policy implementation. The courses are structured to prioritise your development of essential skills in:
summarising, critically examining and evaluating current research literature in areas relevant to policy development.
describing and analysing philosophical concepts, theories, and problems relevant to the evaluation and use of research literature.
presenting research findings to a broad audience.
developing theoretically informed reasoning in specific problem areas related to philosophical issues in policy work.
formulating theory-based policy recommendations and assessments of a normative question in a particular policy area based on new research.
Diverse Policy Challenges
This combination of scientific theory and normative analysis extends to many different issues such as education, healthcare, risk management, the environment, finance, and many others. For example, we examine how to measure school results from a scientific perspective and delve into ethical questions from the philosophy of education and childhood. Another example is, we discuss designing healthcare policies when resources are scarce, which involves balancing values and the latest medical research. We will also deal with questions like what taxes are just, how should research on humans be regulated, and can restrictions on migration be justified? Each course delves into new policy issues and theories in ethics and the philosophy of science.
Who are you?
The programme is for those who have a bachelor’s degree and want to either develop or influence policy. If you join us with a specialisation in social or natural sciences, the programme provides the tools and knowledge to become a generalist regarding policy. If you have a background in ethics or philosophy, it provides you with an opportunity to put theory into practice. This diversity also means that you get to share in and challenge previously held ideas, perspectives, and experiences. You will also collaborate beyond the classroom, connecting with potential employers and researchers from various fields.
If you have any students who might be interested, please feel free to share this information. We believe, for example, that those who have completed a PPE program might find this an interesting master's education. Application details can be found in the link: