What drives us? What makes us feel, react and act the way we do? These questions are explored in the master's programme in psychology at Karlstad University, where students acquire specialised knowledge of human behaviour, equipping them to actively address societal challenges in working life.
In today’s society, where global challenges such as climate change, economical injustice and conflicts affect us all, it is becoming increasingly important to understand the underlying processes behind these crises. That is what the new master’s programme in psychology, which started in the spring, offers.
– The core of the programme is about understanding the psychological processes that govern our behaviour – how people are influenced, react, think and feel when confronted with the challenges that society faces, says Programme Director, Mattias Johansson. The programme is based on the scientific model COM-B, which stands for Capability, Opportunity and Motivation, and is used to understand and facilitate behaviour change in various contexts.
During the programme, students learn to address issues such as social justice, sustainable development and gender equality, with the aim of motivating and equipping society for the changes we must make. Another component is about how psychological dissonance can act as a driving force for change – how to go from insight to action and what happens when values and actions do not align.
Knowledge and inspiration for both professional and private life
Sandra Skoglund, HR and recruitment specialist, is one of the students who started the programme in the spring. She is now in her second semester and shares her experiences so far:
– I’m loving it! The programme is inspiring and well-structured with interesting topics. Although some topics can be heavy, there is a sense of hope. The on-campus meetings and the opportunity to make new contacts with people who share an interest in sustainability are some of the highlights. The courses have offered interesting content and there is a clear common thread throughout. The course "Outlook on Life and Global Trends" stood out as it helped us see the big picture and how everything is connected, as well as how much we can learn from each other. There is so much wisdom in the world available to us if we just stop and listen. Every day, I’m deepening my knowledge and understanding of how everything is connected, how I can make a difference and how I can stay motivated and make sustainable choices on a personal level. I feel inspired and look forward to the rest of the programme and to working with these issues in the future.
The programme is aimed at both students and professionals who want to deepen their knowledge of behavioural psychology, with a particular focus on sustainable development, the future and global survival.
After completing the programme, students have in-depth knowledge of the psychological processes that govern human behaviour in crisis and disaster situations, as well as specialised skills for qualified roles in areas such as investigation and planning, crisis and disaster preparedness, and food supply. The programme also provides a good foundation for those wishing to pursue studies at the doctoral level-
Application for 2025 is open – learn more and apply by 15 October at the latest:
• Master Programme in Psychology with a Focus on the Future and Global Survival
