Science in Society

Science in Society at Radboud University is an interdisciplinary Bachelor's degree program designed to explore the complex relationship between science, society, and ethics. This program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of scientific developments and their societal impacts, encouraging critical thinking and active engagement with pressing contemporary issues. Throughout the course, students will examine various scientific disciplines, including philosophy, sociology, and communication, to develop a holistic perspective on how science influences and is influenced by societal values, politics, and culture. The program emphasizes academic excellence, critical analysis, and real-world applications, preparing graduates for careers in science communication, policy advising, research, or further academic study. Students will benefit from a diverse learning environment, including lectures, seminars, project work, and internships, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. In addition, they will learn to communicate complex scientific topics effectively to different audiences, fostering responsible science literacy and public understanding. The curriculum is designed to stimulate curiosity about science and its role in shaping human society, equipping students with the skills necessary to navigate and contribute to the ongoing societal debates surrounding scientific advancements. Graduates of Science in Society will be well-positioned to work in multidisciplinary teams, analyze ethical dilemmas, and advocate for responsible scientific practices in various sectors. With a focus on societal relevance and ethical considerations, this program prepares students not only for a professional career but also for meaningful participation in societal dialogues about science and technology.

Key courses: Risk Communication; Science & Societal Interaction; Science and Media; Framing Knowledge; Knowledge Society and Science & Public Policy.

Best preparatory Bachelor’s: Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Mathematics, Computing Science or a related degree that admits you to one of the Master’s programmes of the Faculty of Science.

Admission requirements:

You'll need to be enrolled in one of the two-year Master's programmes of the Faculty of Science to be admitted into this specialisation.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Bachelor's degree program in Science in Society at Radboud University offers students a unique interdisciplinary education that bridges the gap between natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. This program is designed to explore the complex relationship between science, technology, and society, addressing contemporary issues such as scientific ethics, societal impact of technological innovations, and public understanding of science. Throughout the program, students engage with diverse topics including philosophy of science, sustainable development, science communication, and policy-making. The curriculum is carefully structured to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to communicate scientific concepts effectively to non-expert audiences. Students participate in a combination of lectures, seminars, project work, and internships, which provide practical experience and foster a multidisciplinary perspective. The program emphasizes research skills and encourages students to undertake independent projects, preparing them for careers in science communication, policy advice, education, or further academic research. Radboud University’s vibrant academic community, combined with its focus on societal relevance, creates an ideal environment for students interested in understanding and influencing how science interacts with society at large. Graduates of this program are equipped to contribute thoughtfully to debates on scientific issues, develop innovative solutions to societal challenges, and promote informed decision-making in various professional settings. The international orientation of the program, with opportunities for exchange and collaboration, ensures that students gain a global perspective on science and society. Overall, the Science in Society bachelor's program aims to cultivate knowledgeable, socially responsible graduates who are committed to fostering a scientifically informed society.