Digital Journalism, Master of Arts

Who is the Master’s in Digital Journalism suitable for?

The Master’s degree programme in Digital Journalism at the Media University of Applied Sciences is aimed at graduates of social sciences or humanities disciplines who wish to advance their careers in the fields of journalism, media, or communication. It specifically targets applicants with an interest in current journalistic developments, digital production methods, as well as cross-media content from culture, entertainment, business, and politics. The programme is suitable for all those who already have basic knowledge of journalism, media, or related subjects and want to specialise in digital publishing channels.

Admission requirements for the Master’s programme

• Degree: A completed undergraduate university degree (Bachelor, Diplom or Magister) in a social science or humanities subject with at least 180 ECTS. Particularly relevant are programmes from the areas of journalism, languages, communication, media, as well as economics, social sciences or cultural studies.
• Focus: The bachelor’s degree should correspond in content to the aforementioned focuses; applications from adjacent disciplines will be assessed individually.
• Language skills: The languages of instruction are German (at the Cologne campus) or English (at the Berlin and Frankfurt campuses). For the English-language programme, appropriate language proficiency must be demonstrated.
• Application deadlines: The start of studies is each summer semester (April) and winter semester (October).
• Possible shortening: If 210 ECTS from the first degree are proven, the Master’s programme may be shortened by one semester.

Personal requirements

• Strong linguistic competence and secure written expression skills
• Analytical thinking, creativity and enjoyment of teamwork
• Curiosity about social, cultural, political and economic topics
• Willingness to engage with digital technologies and cross-media production formats
• Openness to interdisciplinary work and enthusiasm for practical experience in journalism

Digital Journalism (M.A.) – Study Content in Detail

In the Master's programme "Digital Journalism" at the Media University of Applied Sciences, you deepen methodological and professional standards of modern journalism with a strong focus on digital media. The content combines current research, cross-media production and numerous practical phases.

• Focus on Technology and Innovation: You engage with digital production tools, social media channels and modern multimedia workflows. This includes working with 4K cameras, virtual TV studios and the latest software applications.
• Subject Focus: Areas such as culture and entertainment as well as economics and politics are in the foreground. This enables you to prepare stories from different social contexts in a well-founded manner.
• Theory and Practice: The courses combine theoretical basics with practical projects. Practical relevance is provided by lecturers from the media industry and participation in industry events such as re:publica or the DW Global Media Forum.
• General Education Modules:
  • Empirical Social Research
  • Media Law
  • Business English
  • Converging Technological Trends
  • Media Psychology
  • Intercultural Leadership Skills
  • Gamification and Media Production
• Subject-Specific Modules:
  • Media System and Media Ethics
  • Journalism Research
  • Journalistic Writing and Research
  • Crossmedia and Digital Storytelling
  • Cultural Theories and Concepts
  • Production of Audiovisual Formats
  • Convergence of Journalistic Media
  • Project Modules on Economics, Politics, Culture and Entertainment

How is the Course Structured?

The Master's programme usually lasts four semesters (120 ECTS) and can be studied either traditionally or in a dual practice-integrated format.

• Traditional Study: Theory and practical projects at the university. Focus on cross-media content production.
• Dual Practice-Integrated: The course is completed alongside employment at a cooperating company. A large part of the learning objectives is implemented directly in daily work. The Media University supports the search for a suitable practical partner.
• Start of Studies: Possible in the summer semester (April) and the winter semester (October).
• Language Options: In Cologne in German, in Berlin and Frankfurt am Main in English.
• Part-Time Option: The course can be individually extended on a part-time basis.
• Accreditation: With 210 ECTS from the first degree, a shortening to three semesters is possible.

What Career Opportunities and Perspectives Does the Programme Offer?

With the Master's degree in Digital Journalism, you specifically position yourself for journalistic activities in today's media landscape. A strongly practice-oriented education and the cross-media orientation prepare you for versatile fields of activity.

• Possible Professions:
  • Journalists in traditional and digital media
  • Editors
  • Publishers
  • Content Curators
  • Social Media or Community Managers
  • Media Consultants
  • Heads of Communications
• Further Fields of Employment: Press offices in companies, PR agencies, editorial departments for corporate media, public or cultural institutions
• Network: You benefit from contacts to current industry events, media conferences and the university’s alumni network.

Your Study Locations and Their Special Features

• Berlin: Study possible in English, access to a vibrant media and startup scene.
• Cologne: Study in German, location with a high density of media companies and TV productions.
• Frankfurt am Main: Study in English, focus on international media and financial journalism.

Costs and Financing Options

• Regular Study: Monthly tuition fees are 695 EUR, total 16,680 EUR for four semesters.
• Dual Study: No tuition fees. The costs are covered by the practical company within the framework of a cooperation agreement.
• Part-Time Study: Flexible extension of the study duration possible, resulting in proportional cost adjustments.
• Further Notes: Support with internship placement and access to network partners can supplement existing funding.

The programme is officially approved and accredited, ensuring high recognition of the degree.