Are you planning on studying Ethics and Science Policy at Linköping University? In this blog post, Anwar, a first-year student, provides insights into what it is like to study this programme as an international student 🤓

Why did you choose this programme?

I have a background in policymaking and have done policy-related work with NGOs. I have also worked with a reform commission in Bangladesh, where we were tasked with creating proposals for election reforms to ensure free and fair elections. This experience inspired me to choose this course because it fits well with my background.

There are many policy-related programmes, but not many are as philosophical as this one. This course offers a unique perspective that connects well with the policy work that I have done before.

Can you provide insight, in your own words, into what your programme is about?

This course is about policymaking and the role of ethics in policies, and how ethics can influence decision-making. The “science” part of the course focuses more on the philosophy of science rather than the technical or laboratory-based scientific aspects.

What have you learnt and done so far in your programme?

So far, we have learnt how to form scientific questions in relation to policy, what scientific evidence is, and what characteristics make something scientific or not scientific. I have realised that the programme is not technical, but more philosophical in nature.

What has been challenging as an international student?

The main challenge so far has been moving to a new country. I am in a new environment and culture that I am not used to, which has been difficult. I miss my home country and sometimes find it hard to communicate with new people. Also, Sweden is very cold.

Can you explain what the programme is like?

The curriculum focuses on policymaking and what ethical researchers should follow, as well as contemporary research issues in policy. In general, lectures and seminars are two

hours long, which I don’t mind because the teachers are good. Our classes take place on the Linköping campus.

Seminars are more student-focused, which allows us to discuss different topics and share our opinions. I think this is good because it encourages independent thinking. We also have workshops that sometimes feature guest lecturers.

What backgrounds do students typically have

Our class is mixed, but mainly made up of international students. We have Swedish students, other European students, and non-EU students, including students from America. Everyone has a good knowledge of English, so we don’t have issues understanding the course material.

What are your plans for the future with this programme?

I hope to work in policy and contribute to the international diplomatic sector. I also want to return to Bangladesh and contribute to my home country. Bangladesh is undergoing ongoing developments in governance and public policy, which create opportunities for reform and institutional growth. I would like to be part of these processes, and I believe this programme will provide me with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute effectively, both nationally and through international organisations.

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