Program Overview

Program Overview

The Erfaringsbasert master i velferdsendring (Experienced-based Master's in Welfare Change) is a four-year, 120 ECTS program offered by UiT The Arctic University of Norway. The program aims to provide students with the competence to lead and initiate change processes in collaboration with users of welfare services.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the program, applicants must have:

• A completed bachelor's degree or a 3-year higher education in health, social, or pedagogical fields, such as nursing, social work, physiotherapy, or teaching.
• A minimum of two years of relevant practice experience.
• Relevant work experience is defined as experience working in the health, care, and welfare sector. Applicants must provide documentation of their work experience, including start and end dates, and the scope of their position.

Program Structure

The program consists of four subject-specific courses (40 ECTS), four courses in methodology and scientific theory (20 ECTS), and a master's thesis (60 ECTS). All courses are compulsory, and the program is designed to provide a solid foundation for the master's thesis. The program is taught over four years, with two years of coursework and two years dedicated to the master's thesis.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will have:

• In-depth knowledge of empowerment processes and how to facilitate user participation and influence.
• Advanced knowledge of how to initiate, implement, and evaluate change processes in collaboration with users.
• Specialized insight into the field of study and advanced knowledge of different perspectives on welfare change.
• The ability to analyze professional problems based on the user's own culture, history, traditions, and position in society.

Job Prospects

The program qualifies students for positions with responsibility for professional leadership and development within the welfare sector, teaching positions at colleges and universities, and admission to PhD programs.

Access to Further Studies

The Master's in Welfare Change qualifies students for further studies at the doctoral level (PhD).

Language of Instruction

The language of instruction is Norwegian, but some teaching may be conducted in English, and English-language literature may be included in the curriculum.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, project work, group work, and presentations. Exams may be held on campus or as home exams and can be oral or written. The form of examination for each course is specified in the course description.

Exchange Opportunities

International experience is valued, and students can participate in a shorter or longer study period abroad to broaden their personal and professional horizons. Students on the Master's in Welfare Change program can complete a study period abroad in their third semester.