For this specialization, you will need a general knowledge of business concepts, models, and tools. Learners don't need to have business administration certificate, though.

Professionals from many backgrounds, such as business administration, engineering, economics, accounting and applied social sciences are the typical learners of this specialization, just to mention some examples. Keep in mind that you may be from a different area, and still be prepared to take this Specialization with all the benefits you may get from doing it.

From an academic standpoint, we would recommend taking the courses, modules, and lessons in the presented order.

After completing a specialization in future studies, individuals can acquire a range of skills and knowledge that equip them to understand, anticipate, and navigate the complexities of the future. Here are some outcomes and capabilities that individuals may gain from such a specialization:

1. Strategic Foresight: Develop the ability to strategically assess and plan for potential future scenarios. Understand how to apply various foresight methodologies to inform decision-making processes.

2. Scenario Planning: Gain expertise in creating and analyzing scenarios to explore alternative futures. Learn to identify key drivers and uncertainties that shape possible scenarios.

3. Decision Support: Gain proficiency in providing decision-makers with informed insights based on future studies. Develop skills in communicating complex future scenarios to diverse stakeholders.

4. Interdisciplinary Thinking: Cultivate an interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving, drawing on insights from various fields to understand and address complex challenges.

5. Ethical Considerations: Understand the ethical implications of future scenarios and the responsibility of decision-makers in shaping the future. Consider the societal and environmental impacts of different courses of action.

Overall, a specialization in future studies equips individuals with a set of skills and perspectives that are valuable in various professional domains, including business, government, non-profit organizations, and academia. It enables them to be proactive in shaping the future and making informed decisions in the face of uncertainty