Sozioinformatik (M.Sc.) - University of Kaiserslautern-Landau (RPTU)

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Quick Overview

• The Degree Program contains References to AI Methods.
  
  

  Type:	Degree Program (University)
  Degree:	Master (M.Sc.)
  Standard Period of Study:	4 Semester
  Credit Points:	120 ECTS
  Languages of Instruction:	German
  Time Exposure:	full time
  Study Type:	Presence Study
  Start of Studies:	Winter and Summer semester

Information about the Content

• Software and technology have become an indispensable part of modern society. Generative language models like ChatGPT are used everywhere—not only to complete homework or generate recipes, but also for travel planning, as translators, or in the development of large-scale software systems. Companies deploy Artificial Intelligence both for quality assurance and to support human resources decisions. Meanwhile, as TikTok and other social media platforms compete for our attention, their algorithms increasingly influence the information we perceive and how public debates are conducted. Anyone who wants to understand these developments needs more than technical knowledge alone.

  This is precisely where Socioinformatics (Socio-Informatics) comes in. Instead of viewing technology and people separately, it examines how both are interconnected and how they influence one another. Consequently, the degree program addresses questions such as:

  • - What societal impacts can the introduction of new technologies bring?
  • How can phenomena like filter bubbles, doomscrolling, or AI flops be explained?
  • What can be done to ensure that software not only works technically, but also achieves its desired impact?

  The Master's program in Socioinformatics is consecutively structured and builds directly on the content of the Bachelor's program in Socioinformatics. In principle, entry with a Bachelor's degree from another field of study is also possible. However, the prerequisite for this is that the previous studies covered both sufficient computer science knowledge and social science content. For questions regarding credit transfer as well as switching to the Master's program in Socioinformatics, Julian Pelloth (julian.pelloth[at]edu.rptu.de) is available via email.

  The curriculum consists of software engineering combined with foundational knowledge in economics, ethics, law, sociology, and psychology. A degree in Socioinformatics therefore offers many possibilities for future career choices. While most graduates enter software development, socioinformaticians are also in high demand in politics, public administration, and business due to their interdisciplinary training and their ability to handle complex systems and problems well. For instance, instead of working directly in software development, graduates can advise government agencies, audit the use of AI systems, or guide the introduction of new technologies within companies.

  Through numerous elective options, students can set their own focus within Socioinformatics and develop an individual profile. Over the course of their studies, for example, students can evolve into sought-after AI experts, versatile software engineers, informed science communicators in the field of digitalization, analytical political consultants, or expert business consultants. 

  
  Additional Information:
  Sozioinformatik (M.Sc.) - University of Kaiserslautern-Landau (RPTU)