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Interdisciplinary studies - a unique experience

What interdisciplinarity means and why we offer it

Interdisciplinarity rests on the assumption that the world in which we live is complex, and that it requires different ways of understanding and solving problems. By integrating different approaches we are able to shed new light on problems and find innovative solutions. While interdisciplinarity still remains a new approach in many areas, it has always been deeply rooted within certain fields; such as in the programmes we offer as well in many of the natural sciences.

Interdisciplinarity at Graduate School

What this means for us

At Graduate School, the programmes take on an interdisciplinary approach in that each course includes perspectives from different social science disciplines, asking of the student to understand, apply and critically reflect upon these methods and theories, and eventually integrate them into their own research. By being aware of different approaches and interdisciplinarity, you will be more open and better prepared to deal with its challenges, and hopefully gain a deeper and broader understanding of your field.

At Graduate School, interdisciplinary courses are taught by teachers from different academic backgrounds, incorporating several disciplines into their teaching. This challenges you as a student to make connections and to think critically about what each approach has to offer, how they differ, and how or if they can possibly coexist. You will be exposed to different methodological approaches based on different roots of knowledge. One of the unique features of Graduate School programmes is that you will learn both qualitative and quantitative methods side-by-side, and even learn to combine them. Again, prepare to be challenged to understand, critique, apply and enter into a discussion through your own research.

 

Interdisciplinarity, a drawing by Tyra Örnberg
Artist: Tyra Örnberg

Several departments involved in each course

Courses in the programmes engage teachers from different departments at the Faculty of Social Sciences, bringing with them a wealth of expertise and experience. All disciplines have the potential of being relevant and useful in addressing social problems and issues, and we strongly encourage independent critical thinking and innovation which can contribute to addressing complex problems of today and tomorrow.

Consistency with your major

You are accepted into the programme based in part on the area of your Bachelor's degree. While you will be exposed to different perspectives through the programme, during the final semester you will write your Master's thesis at the department which corresponds to your Bachelor's degree. In other words, you will receive a supervisor from the corresponding department, but it is expected that you to integrate knowledge and perspectives gained throughout your studies so that your final thesis is interdisciplinary.