The Master's program Transformation Studies discusses the causes and consequences of socio-ecological challenges such as anthropogenic climate change, loss of biodiversity as well as resource depletion and environmental pollution. The study program is characterized by its focus on the current environmental and sustainability crisis from a constitutive socio-ecological perspective. The crises are thus approached as threats which have a social dimension both in their causation and in their effects. Within the scope of the program, opportunities and limits for the shaping of social transformations are reflected and analyzed under the overarching theme of sustainability.

In a historical, contemporary and future-oriented perspective, the Master’s Program examines the processes of social change, and what accelerates or inhibits them. Particular attention will be given to the different actor networks and the relationship between power, production and reproduction as well as to theories and practices of societal nature. The program provides both scientific theories and theoretical insights as well as spaces for creative thinking and action.

The aim is to give students the opportunity to understand the nature of social-ecological challenges and the processes of social change as well as to relate them to one another. After completing their studies, students will have practice-oriented knowledge on social transformation processes geared towards sustainability.

The study program follows a triad analysis from present, past and future. This is supplemented by profound methodological training: qualitative and quantitative methods of empirical social research as well as transdisciplinary and participatory approaches are part of the program.

The course utilizes a transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary study approach. Therefore, it is important to systematically and continuously reflect on the possibilities, challenges, and limitations of interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary science and practice. Themes surrounding this topic are included in the colloquium "Transformation Research" which accompanies all four semesters.

The aim of the course is to train qualified specialists for science, politics (counseling), business and society. After completion of the study program, job opportunities are provided both in the practical field as well as in science and research. The students qualify for jobs in research institutes as well as for demanding positions in public administrations, companies and institutions where processes of change in the context of sustainability are increasingly required. Some examples of work placements outside of universities are:

• International and non-governmental organizations
• Corporate social responsibility and sustainability departments in companies
• Environmental departments in the public sector
• Common good oriented companies
• Institutions and organizations that provide media, press and public relations on environmental and sustainability issues

You would like to apply?

The M.A. Transformation Studies is offered for the first time in autumn 2017. Please note the semester periods of the Europa-Universität Flensburg!

Applications are accepted from May 15, 2017 onwards. Detailed information will soon be made available here and on the application page. (Click on "Application Master", then on the "Transformation Studies" submenu).