Social Informatics
The Master of Science in Social Informatics at RPTU Kaiserslautern bridges computer science and social sciences to address technology's impact on society. Designed for students interested in data-driven social analysis, ethical AI, digital governance, and sociotechnical systems, this full-time international program combines research-oriented training with practical application. It is structured across four semesters and admits students in both the winter and summer semesters.
Located in Kaiserslautern, a leading German tech and research hub, the program offers access to cutting-edge research institutes and interdisciplinary projects. Students gain expertise in computational social science, algorithm auditing, data ethics, and human-technology interaction, preparing them for roles in academia, industry, and public-sector innovation focused on socially responsible technology development.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Kaiserslautern
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Summer & Winter semester
- Area of study: Social Sciences & Computer Science
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Social Informatics
- Computational Social Science Basics
- Social Data Analytics
- Ethics & Responsible AI
- Programming & Data Methods
Semester 2 – Advanced Methods & Systems
- Machine Learning for Social Systems
- Algorithm Auditing & Fairness
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Research Seminar
Semester 3 – Specialization & Applied Research
- Policy & Digital Society
- Network Analysis & Simulation
- Interdisciplinary Innovation Lab
- Practical/Industry Project
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis
- Research Thesis
- Thesis Colloquium & Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for roles at the intersection of technology and society, including data scientist for social systems, ethical AI specialist, digital policy analyst, UX researcher, human-AI interaction expert, and research scientist. Opportunities exist in tech companies, consulting firms, public institutions, NGOs, and academic research centers focusing on ethical innovation and digital transformation.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a unique combination of computational training and social science insight, enabling students to evaluate, design, and govern digital systems responsibly. With strong support from RPTU’s interdisciplinary labs and research groups, students gain high-impact analytical and ethical skills for the digital era.
Additionally, its focus on real-world applications—algorithm transparency, digital democracy, AI governance, and social data science—prepares graduates for careers where technology and society meet. Students benefit from Kaiserslautern’s vibrant research ecosystem and international community, giving them access to leading institutions and collaborative innovation networks.
Contact Information
RPTU – Student Advisory Service
Erwin-Schrödinger-Str. 37
67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany
Tel: +49 631 205 5252
Email: study@rptu.de
Program Contact – Faculty of Computer Science
Postfach 3049
67653 Kaiserslautern, Germany
Tel: +49 631 205 3346
Email: zweig@cs.uni-kl.de
(Prof. Dr. Katharina Zweig)
International Office – RPTU
Gottlieb-Daimler-Str. 47
67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany
Tel: +49 631 205-5252
Email: refinta-info@rptu.de
