Masters Degree Programme in Futures Studies

Turku

 

INTAKE: August

Program Overview

The Master's Degree Programme in Futures Studies at the University of Turku is a unique and interdisciplinary program that focuses on preparing students to understand and shape the future. This two-year program equips students with the skills to analyze trends, explore future scenarios, and contribute to strategic decision-making in various sectors. The program is designed for individuals interested in global challenges, technological innovations, and social changes that influence the future. Students will learn to apply various forecasting and foresight methods, empowering them to assess complex societal and environmental issues while developing sustainable solutions for the future. The program is taught in English, welcoming international students with diverse academic backgrounds.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the Master's Degree Programme in Futures Studies blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of future studies. The core courses cover topics such as forecasting, scenario planning, systems thinking, and sustainability studies. Students are trained in qualitative and quantitative research methods, learning how to analyze and interpret data related to future trends. In addition to core modules, students can choose from a range of elective courses tailored to their interests, such as digital transformation, governance, or global futures. The curriculum includes opportunities for students to engage in practical projects, collaborate with industry experts, and develop their skills in foresight techniques and strategic thinking.

Research Focus: The Master's Degree Programme in Futures Studies at the University of Turku has a strong research focus on creating innovative approaches to understanding and shaping the future. The program explores a wide range of research areas, including the future of technology, climate change, globalization, social innovation, and political transformations. Students are encouraged to engage in forward-thinking research, exploring various methods of forecasting and analyzing emerging trends. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, drawing from fields such as sociology, economics, environmental sciences, and political science. By participating in research projects, students contribute to global efforts in addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for humanity.

Industry Engagement: The Master's Degree Programme in Futures Studies offers strong industry engagement opportunities, ensuring that students are well-equipped to apply their skills in real-world contexts. The program partners with various organizations, corporations, and government bodies to provide students with practical experience in strategic foresight, trend analysis, and future-oriented decision-making. Students have opportunities to work on industry projects, conduct internships, and participate in consulting assignments, allowing them to apply their knowledge in a professional setting. The program’s engagement with industry ensures that students not only gain academic insights but also develop practical skills that enhance their employability in fields such as policy development, business strategy, and environmental planning.

Global Perspective: The Master's Degree Programme in Futures Studies at the University of Turku offers a global perspective, addressing challenges and opportunities that transcend national borders. Students are exposed to international case studies, global trends, and diverse viewpoints, preparing them to tackle global issues such as climate change, technological disruption, and geopolitical shifts. The program is designed to provide students with the tools to analyze global futures and make informed decisions that have a positive impact on the world. The international nature of the program is further enhanced by collaborations with global partners, giving students the chance to participate in international research projects, attend conferences, and connect with experts from around the world.

Pollster Education

Location

Turku

Pollster Education

Score

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

€ 10000

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: €100

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

  • English language test waiver is applicable if the Bachelor's, Master's, Licentiate, or Doctoral degree is in English language.

The University of Turku offers various scholarships for international students, aimed at supporting students with the cost of their tuition fees and ensuring they have the opportunity to pursue their studies in Finland without financial concerns. These scholarships are designed to attract talented students from across the globe, particularly for Master’s degree programs, as the university has a strong international student body.

University of Turku Scholarship Scheme: The University of Turku offers a merit-based scholarship scheme for international students applying to Master’s degree programs. These scholarships cover part or all of the tuition fees for students from non-EU/EEA countries. The scholarships are competitive and are awarded based on the academic excellence and merits of the applicants. Students who are accepted to a degree program at the university are automatically considered for this scholarship.

External Scholarships: The university provides information and guidance on various external scholarships that are available to international students, including scholarships offered by Finnish government agencies and private foundations.

Erasmus+ Grants: Students who are part of the Erasmus+ exchange program may be eligible for grants to support their studies in Finland.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Some countries have specific scholarship agreements with Finland, and students from these countries may apply for additional financial support.

Graduates of the Master's Degree Programme in Futures Studies from the University of Turku have access to a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors, both in the public and private domains. The skills and knowledge gained in future forecasting, strategic decision-making, and trend analysis make graduates highly competitive in today's rapidly changing world. 

Foresight Specialist: Graduates can work as foresight specialists in organizations, helping businesses, governments, and NGOs to analyze future trends and make informed decisions. These specialists often work in strategic planning, risk management, and policy development.

Strategic Consultant: Graduates can enter the consulting industry, offering strategic insights to organizations seeking to understand and prepare for future challenges. This role involves advising clients on long-term goals, innovations, and market shifts.

Policy Advisor: Graduates may work in governmental or non-governmental organizations, providing advice on future policies and strategies to address complex global challenges, such as climate change, economic shifts, and technological advancements.

Business Development Manager: With expertise in identifying future trends, graduates can become business development managers, helping companies identify new opportunities, explore market changes, and expand into new regions or sectors.

Sustainability Expert: Many graduates pursue careers in sustainability, helping organizations develop and implement strategies to address environmental and social challenges. They may work in green energy, sustainable development, or corporate social responsibility roles.

Trend Analyst: Trend analysts gather and interpret data to forecast future consumer behaviors, technological innovations, and societal shifts. This role is essential in fields such as marketing, product development, and media.

Corporate Strategist: Graduates can work as corporate strategists, contributing to long-term planning and decision-making processes in large corporations. Their work may involve evaluating business models, identifying future opportunities, and guiding organizational transformation.

Researcher/Academic: Some graduates choose to continue their studies by pursuing a PhD in futures studies or related fields, eventually entering academia to teach or engage in advanced research on global futures, policy development, or sustainability.

Entrepreneur: Armed with the ability to anticipate market shifts and societal trends, graduates can launch their own ventures focused on solving emerging problems or capitalizing on new opportunities in areas such as technology, sustainability, or healthcare.

International Development Specialist: Graduates can work with international organizations, such as the UN or World Bank, to analyze and design strategies that address the global challenges facing developing countries, particularly in terms of economic development and social impact.


Similar Courses
WhatsApp Enquiry Call Enquiry