Societal security Master's programme

What kinds of phenomena are framed as threats and security challenges? How is security managed politically? What does sustainable resolution of crises and conflicts look like? What is needed to maintain democracy, trust, and equality in times of transformation?

The new master's program in societal security, starting in the fall of 2027, will approach global, regional, and local security issues with an open-minded and multifaceted perspective. Future experts and researchers will gain comprehensive analytical tools to understand security in a broad context and to influence the development of sustainable societies

The foundation of the program is firmly rooted in social sciences, incorporating perspectives from multidisciplinary security research into the curriculum. Three thematic study tracks support students in exploring the diverse dimensions of societal security, such as the impacts of innovations, peace mediation, and geopolitics, as well as inclusion and inequality. Researchers working within the Societal Security Hub will assist students in developing their own research questions during master's seminars.

Specialization tracks:

  • Economic Structures, Technological Change, and Crises
  • Democracy, Inequality, and Societal Outcomes
  • Global Conflicts, Development, and Peace Processes

Multidisciplinary teaching that complements the study tracks will be offered in collaboration with other faculties at the University of Helsinki and partner universities, focusing on themes such as justice, sustainability, and resilience.

Students' professional growth and career prospects will be supported by providing networking and internship opportunities with organizations working in various sectors related to societal security.

We will provide more detailed information about the content, structure, and application process of the master's program in societal security in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned!

For more information about the programme’s design and collaboration opportunities