In both master’s programs, students deal with the interdependencies of science, technology (development), politics and social dynamics. The „Science and Technology Studies“ (M.A. STS) program has a greater focus on the foundations of science and technology studies as a field of research, the philosophy and history of science and technology, methods of qualitative research and in-depth exposure to specific research topics. The program „Responsibility in Science, Engineering and Technology“ (M.A. RESET) also deals with the above-mentioned topics but approaches them from a more practice-oriented perspective, always putting emphasis on the question: What does responsibility mean in this context?

In the first semester, students of both programs learn the basics of qualitative social research. They are familiarized with specific methods as well as their underlying philosophical assumptions. The RESET M.A. program is dedicated to practice-oriented learning. In a semester-long immersion project, students learn to apply theories to a current controversial debate in small project groups. Closely related to this, the module „Technology and Society“ examines the interactions between science, technology and society in five blocks (politics, economics, law, ethics and media). The STS M.A. program, on the other hand, takes a closer look at the foundations and history of the field of Science and Technology Studies (STS). How has STS developed as a field from sociology, philosophy, history and anthropology? Students are familiarized with the development and approaches of major STS currents by learning about the most important theories, researchers and case studies. In the modules STS2 (“Philosophy of Science and Technology”) and STS3 (“History of Science and Technology”), they learn about the philosophical foundations and historical developments of science and technology (development).

In the second semester, both M.A. programs are devoted to an in-depth examination of core STS topics. Students can select three core topics in accordance with their interests, e.g. biomedicine or industries and innovation. Furthermore, they attend STEM courses and analyze the respective disciplinary knowledge cultures (RESET students also focus on issues of responsibility in the respective discipline). Furthermore, STS M.A. students deepen their knowledge in social science methods whereas RESET M.A. students acquire practical skills e.g. in moderation, intercultural communication or international project management.

In the third semester, STS M.A. students devote themselves to a selection of four advanced STS topics whereas RESET M.A. students apply their acquired knowledge in an internship and present and discuss their internship experiences and analyses in a self-organized mini symposium (the “Science School”). Furthermore, they acquire science communication skills in the “Master’s Blog” course. Both M.A. programs also include a “Practicing Research” module, in which students work on research questions or a full research project to help prepare them for their master’s thesis. The fourth semester is then dedicated to the master’s thesis.

If you are unsure about which program to choose, you are welcome to do the SOT Master’s program quiz.

If you need information about how to convert your foreign grades into the German grading system, please visit this website. You can use the calculation form to convert your grades. Please note, however, that the outcome only serves as orientation and is not legally binding.

If you are an international student and need further orientation concerning financial support for your studies, finding accommodation or taking language courses, the International Center will be glad to provide you with the necessary information.

There aren’t any special fees for the RESET Master’s program. You will have to pay the basic semester ticket and student union fees which are due every term before students are permitted to enroll or re-enroll. Check out the details here.

Are you looking for a suitable scholarship? Find out more about “TUM Scholarships”.

Anyone considering university study in Germany has a lot to think about: How can I finance my study and stay? How good must my German language skills be? Where do I apply? How do I get to know other students – and what kind of services does TUM offer for international students? Here we have compiled the most important things you need to know.

TUM advisory services offer a broad range of information regarding your studies at TUM, housing, and financing as well as support for students with families and students with a handicap. Also discover International Campus Life with its numerous events for international students.”

There are several opportunities for stays abroad which students can pursue on their own initiative. The most feasible option is for students to arrange their mandatory internship abroad during the third semester.

TU Munich’s International Center and the STS & RESET Study Office offer support and advice. The ERASMUS+ program offers you the chance to study at universities within the European Union (EU) whereas with the TUMexchange Program you can also visit universities outside the EU.

For more information on which partner universities you can apply for, please visit this website and choose the subject area “SOT - Department of Science, Technology and Society”.

You can log in here: https://wiki.tum.de/display/mcts/MA+Info+Center
The M.A. Info Center provides information on a wide range of study-related topics as well as forms you can download.

Click here for the RESET Examination Regulations (please click on the link and scroll down to „Responsibility in Science, Engineering and Technology“), and here for the General Examination Regulations.

The main assessment methods in the RESET M.A. program are presentations and research papers. Presentations are held during the lecture period. The official deadline for research papers is March 15th in the winter semester and September 15th in the summer semester.