Program Overview

Program Overview

The Master's program in System Dynamics - Model-Based Social Planning is a two-year, full-time study that focuses on understanding and managing complex systems. The program is designed to provide students with a unique set of skills and knowledge in methods, techniques, and tools that can be applied across disciplines and sectors.

Program Structure

The program consists of four semesters, with a total of 120 credits. The first semester covers the fundamentals of system dynamics, system dynamics modeling and analysis, and the system dynamics modeling process. The second semester focuses on model-based policy design and analysis, analytical methods, and advanced modeling. The third semester covers dynamic complexity and decision experiments, model-based interactive learning environments, and writing a project description. The final semester is dedicated to writing a Master's thesis.

Courses

The program includes the following courses:

• GEO-SD302: Fundamentals of System Dynamics (10 credits)
• GEO-SD303: System Dynamics Modeling and Analysis (10 credits)
• GEO-SD304: System Dynamics Modelling Process (10 credits)
• GEO-SD308: Model-based Policy Design and Analysis (10 credits)
• GEO-SD311: Analytical methods and advanced modelling (10 credits)
• GEO-SD325: Client Based Modelling (10 credits)
• GEO-SD306: Dynamic Complexity and Decision Experiments (10 credits)
• GEO-SD309: Model Based Interactive Learning Environments (10 credits)
• GEO-SD310: Writing course and project description (10 credits)
• GEO-SD351: Master's Thesis (30 credits)

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet the general admission requirements for Master's programs at the University of Bergen. Additionally, applicants must have a minimum grade average of C (2.5) in their undergraduate degree. Most students from countries outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland must pay tuition fees, but there are exceptions.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program can pursue careers in academia, research organizations, international organizations, companies, and public sector institutions. The program provides students with a unique set of skills and knowledge that can be applied to complex, dynamic challenges.

Study Environment

The program is a full-time study that requires focus on academic work, but it also offers a lively student environment with informal gatherings and new friends. Students will spend most of their time at the Department of Geography, which is located in the city center of Bergen. The department has dedicated reading rooms and computer labs for Master's students, and the curriculum literature is available digitally through the University of Bergen's library agreements.

Exchange Opportunities

Students can participate in exchange programs in the second or third semester, with options to study in Palermo, Lisbon, or Nijmegen.

Further Study Opportunities

With a Master's degree in System Dynamics, students can apply for admission to the Ph.D. program and pursue a doctoral degree.