Knowledge and understanding
The Master of Science Programme in Comparative Public Policy and Welfare Studies gives knowledge which, in the field of following disciplines, is based on the highest international research.
- Comparative politics: history and political development of the welfare state; contemporary reforms of welfare states and labour markets
- Comparative policy: public policy analysis, labour economics, social policy
- Crafting analysis: social science methodology about concepts, ideal types, measurement, indicators, and various comparative methods; various types of cross-national data
The MSc is able to understand and, on a scientific basis, to reflect on this knowledge and identify relevant scientific issues.
Skills
A MSc in Comparative Public Policy and Welfare Studies can, in a qualified way, select and apply from among the scientific theories, methodologies, tools and general skills of the fields of study and set up new models of analysis and problem solving on a scientific basis.
The MSc can set up new models for analysis and problem solution on the basis of the performed analyses.
The MSc is able to communicate his or her research-based knowledge and can discuss professional and scientific issues with both academic peers and non-specialists.
Competences
A MSc in Comparative Public Policy can manage work and development situations that are complex, unpredictable and require new solutions, can independently initiate and implement professional and interdisciplinary cooperation, and can take on professional responsibility.
A MSc is able to independently take responsibility for own professional development and specialisation.
A MSc is capable of taking on positions in both public and private sector institutions and organizations. The MSc Programme in Comparative Public Policy and Welfare Studies qualifies its candidates as consultant, analyst, administrator, policy-advocate or executive positions.
When you work with different academic challenges and tools, you acquire general academic competences.
Often it is not the product that’s being evaluated, but your capacity to be critical about the process you have gone through, and how you have approached the challenges during the process to the product.
What are my general academic competences?
Through your programme you’ll acquire among others the following general academic competences:
- Being able to isolate, define and analyze a professional problem by using relevant theories and methods
- Being able to systematize complex knowledge and data and select and prioritize that which is important for the subject matter
- Being able to critically assess the various theories and methods in the academic field
- Being able to apply concepts precisely and consistently and being able to engage in dialogue and argue on a basic theoretical foundation
- Being able to critically assess sources and document them
- Being able to convey professional problems and solutions in a way that make them relevant and understandable to various segments
- Being able to handle complex and development-oriented situations and cooperate and being able to both give and accept constructive criticism
- Being able to work independently, disciplined, structured and goal-oriented, and keep deadlines and formalities
Read more about your general academic competences in your curriculum.