Presentation

Semester

Autumn

The Degree

The master's programme leads to the degree Master of Philosophy in System Dynamics. It is a two year programme (120 ECTS credits).

Objectives and content

The master´s degree in system dynamics signifies an ability to analyze how and why things change over time. System dynamics builds on the best traditions in science for studying complex dynamic systems to understand how systems´ dynamics originate from the underlying systems´ structure, to investigate how pressing current problems reflect past policies and design alternative policies that may be alleviate these problems. To do so, candidates are trained to develop simulation models that represent the cause-and-effect structure of the systems studied, to derive their dynamics by way of simulation, and to investigate the relationship between the two. This combination of skills encourages collaboration and teamwork in daily decision-making as well as long-range planning.

Programme profile

The Master's Programme in System Dynamics trains students in model-based knowledge acquisition, analysis and policy design in complex, dynamic domains that cut across disciplines and sectors. Research focuses on development issues, natural resources management, socioeconomic problems, and teaching that promotes insightful learning. When students choose thesis topics in these areas, they benefit from a close collaboration with faculty and fellow students.

Master thesis

Students write a thesis during the third and fourth semesters. The thesis is a research project where system dynamics modelling and simulation are applied as a basis for systems analysis (identification of the origin of a dynamic problem) and policy design (including impact and feasibility analysis) aiming at a sustainable problem solution. Before choosing thesis topics, students are expected to consult with and gain approval from supervisors. A sample of recent topics includes:

• simulation models: AIDS in Tanzania, prison overcrowding in the U.K., urban transportation in China, energy taxation, fluctuations in Colombia¿s coffee market, skilled labor market in Norway, sovereign debt crisis in Greece;
• laboratory experiments: young peoples understanding of delayed uptake of alcohol in the blood stream, popular misperceptions of energy taxes/urban transportation dynamics/collective action;
• methodology: eigenvalue analysis of nonlinear system dynamics models, nonlinear and dynamic model optimisation in policy space, synthetic data experiments in social systems.

 Please note that in order to write a thesis (take the course GEO-SD 350), there is a requirement of an average result of C or better after the completion of all mandatory coursework at the end of the first year. Only those who have met the required standards will be able to proceed with the programme.

Method

The system dynamics method is the subject of study and is also used as a vehicle for teaching throughput this programme. Its theoretical foundation is being presented as well as techniques and software tools. Students learn to apply the principles of system dynamics modelling and to use computer-based tools for simulation, interactive learning environments, and laboratory experiments.

Click the links to Program Description and Construction for more details.

Admission

Semester

Autumn

Admission Requirements

  Applicants should hold a Bachelor degree in social sciences, management sciences, natural sciences or engineering sciences. Students from other disciplines, but with a strong interest in System Dynamics, are also invited to apply and will be considered. Applicants should have average grades between A and B and be able to document proficiency in English.

The language requirements for admission to the programme are: TOEFL > 575 (paper based), > 233 (computer based), IELTS > 6.5 or previous degree in English, for example CAE/CPE (copy of degree required). If your first language is English, you will not be required to provide an English language test score. You are considered to be a native speaker of English if you are from Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, the UK, USA or South Africa, and if English was the language in which you gained all your qualifications.

 You apply for admission directly to the Faculty of Social Sciences. Application deadline is 15 April. Deadline for applicants residing abroad is 1 December. More information: http://www.uib.no/education/admission/master

Who may apply

Applicants for the Quota Scheme from the following universities:

• Makerere University, Uganda
• University of Malawi, Malawi
• University of the Western Cape, South Africa
• Javeriana University, Colombia
• Cairo University, Egypt
• Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Medellin Campus
• Fudan University, China
• TongJi University, China

Self-financing degree students

Contact

More information

post@geog.uib.no / (+ 47) 55 58 30 62