M.A. STS

Essay questions for the application period 01 January – 31 May 2023 (for admission in the winter semester 23/24)

Please write an essay on one of the following topics (1-3 A4 pages (excluding references), Arial 11, line spacing 1.5; Harvard system of referencing):

Question 1
In the face of climate change and the need to find energy sources that do not produce CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions, after a long steady decline in development, there are an increasing number of proponents advocating for a revival and expansion of nuclear power. Which social, political, and/or ethical questions does this raise at the intersections of science, technology, and society? Define these as a research question(s). Briefly outline an approach you might take (methods, data, theoretical framework) to explore this question(s).

Question 2
Over the last 3 years, in large part due to the Covid pandemic, various global supply chains involving a wide range of consumer goods experienced major disruptions leading to delays in production and shipping, many of which persist. In turn, these disruptions have been become another justification for re-shoring efforts – attempts to rebuild more local supply chains and industries. Which social, political, and/or ethical questions does this raise at the intersections of science, technology, and society? Define these as a research question(s). Briefly outline an approach you might take (methods, data, theoretical framework) to explore this question(s).

The essay is assessed according to the criteria a) spelling and grammar, b) identifying, describing and reflecting upon complex interrelations between technology, science and society by using specific examples, c) formulating relevant issues and questions, d) outlining an appropriate research idea

Please note that your essay and letter of motivation has to be your own unaided work, and that all direct or indirect sources used are acknowledged as references. Your work can be examined for the use of unauthorized aid and in order to determine whether your work as a whole or parts of it may be deemed as plagiarism. Any attempt of deception/plagiarism will be penalized.

Letter of Motivation

A written statement (1-2 A4 pages) of the reasons for choosing the STS program at the Technical University of Munich in which the candidate explains the specific abilities and interests that make him/her particularly qualified for the program. This statement is assessed according to the criteria a) language, b) demonstration of eligibility and motivation e.g. through program-related extracurricular activities, vocational training, internships or stays abroad, c) link between personal interests and the MCTS program.

Detailed information concerning the eligibility requirements, the necessary documents and the aptitude procedure can be found in the Examination and Academic Regulations for the Master’s Program Science and Technology Studies. Only the German version of the regulations is legally binding.

• German Version
• English Version