Journalism, Bachelor of Arts

Distance learning program @ IU International University of Applied Sciences 

👉 The Bachelor's programme in Journalism at IU International University is a flexible distance learning course for school leavers with university entrance qualifications and professionals with relevant qualifications. It covers all core journalistic competencies, from research and editing to media law and the production of multimedia content for print, online, and audiovisual media. Special focuses include social media marketing, TV and web hosting, and data journalism. The programme is state-recognised, starts at any time, and offers various scheduling options (36 to 72 months). Applications are possible without a numerus clausus, and previous academic achievements can be recognised. The target group consists of individuals interested in media, social issues, and digital technologies.

At a Glance

🏫 University IU International University of Applied Sciences, UAS based in Erfurt (Germany)
Practical relevance, international orientation or maximum flexibility: IU International University (IU) prepares over 100,000 students for the global job market. It brings together under its umbrella more than 100 study programs offered in three independent university areas: the IU Dual Study Program, the IU Distance Learning Program and the flexible IU myStudium. IU offers students a network of renowned practical partners in the business world: more than 15,000 companies have already successfully cooperated with IU, including ZURICH Versicherungen or Motel One. IU, which was founded in 2000, is now represented in over 40 cities in Germany.
🎓 Field of Study Media SciencesJournalism
📜 Degree Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
⏳ Duration 6 Semesters
🎯 ECTS 180 Credit Points
🌍 Language of Instruction German
📖 Course contents Introduction to Media and Communication Studies, Introduction to Scientific Work for Business, Management and Communication, Digital Skills, Media Processes: Research and Conception, Typography: Discovering Typefaces, Project: Writing Workshop, Collaborative Work, Project: Social Media Journalism, History and Ethics of Media, Media Psychology, Print Production, Project: Print Media, Media Economics, Market Research, Storytelling, Project: Format Lab, Basics of Audio-Visual Media, Project: Audio-Visual Media, Media Law, Intercultural and Ethical Skills, Internationalization in Journalism and Media Management, Mobile Media, Content Management Systems, Project: Online and Cross-Media Journalism, Seminar: Current Trends in Journalism, Digital Editorial Management, Project: Professional Writing, Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Reality, Elective Modules, Bachelor's Thesis
📚 Electives Editorial Lab, Social Media Marketing, TV and Web Hosting, Corporate Communication and PR, International Media Economy, Communication and PR, Media Marketing, Public Affairs and PR, Sport Media Management, Advanced Leadership
📍 Location online
✅ ZFU Approval The Central State Office for Distance Learning (ZFU) has approved the course Journalism under the number 1115021c.
📅 Enrollment Anytime
💶 Fees
from 249 € monthly
from 15063 € total
🔗 More Info https://www.iu-fernstudium.de

Requirements and Target Group of the Bachelor's Programme in Journalism (IU International University)

The Bachelor's degree programme in Journalism in distance learning at IU International University is aimed at all those who are planning a professional career in journalism or have already gained initial experience in media and communication and wish to expand it. The target group includes high school graduates with university entrance qualifications, as well as professionals without a (vocational) baccalaureate who have relevant training and several years of practical experience. The study model is designed to be completely flexible and is therefore particularly suitable for individuals who wish to study alongside work or family commitments or who prefer an individual schedule. In addition, the programme offers the opportunity to specialize in specific areas such as data journalism, TV and web moderation, or social media marketing.

Admission Requirements

The following access conditions apply to the Bachelor's degree programme in Journalism at IU:

  • With university entrance qualification:
    • General university entrance qualification (Abitur) or subject-specific university entrance qualification
    • University of Applied Sciences entrance qualification (Fachabitur), where both the academic and practical components are necessary
    • Applicants with international (e.g. IB Diploma) or internationally acquired school-leaving certificates: An equivalence evaluation according to Anabin will be conducted.
    • Graduates of Waldorf schools or vocational colleges in Baden-Württemberg may require an official confirmation of the University of Applied Sciences qualification before starting in another location.
  • Without (vocational) baccalaureate:
    • Master craftsman's certificate or completed advanced training (e.g. IHK specialist or IHK expert)
    • At least two years of recognized vocational training in Germany and at least three years of full-time professional experience*
    • Direct start of studies through a trial study or by demonstrating academic aptitude - depending on the content of the training and professional experience.
    • For training in EU countries: An equivalence evaluation to the German vocational training at level DQR 4 takes place.
  • Language proficiency requirement for international applicants:
    • For German-language programmes, an official proof of German language skills is required, e.g. TestDaF (at least TND3, 3 points each), DSH (at least level 1), telc German B2, ÖSD B2, or equivalent certificates*
    • The proof must generally not be more than 5 years old and must be available before the start of studies.
    • *The university may also recognize other comparable examinations for the B2 level of German (CEFR).

Further important facts:

  • There is no numerus clausus (NC) and no admission restrictions.
  • Starting the programme is possible at any time, there are no fixed application deadlines.
  • The programme is state-recognized and accredited.

Personal Requirements:

  • Interest in current social, cultural, or economic issues
  • Affinity for media, language, and digital technologies
  • Critical thinking skills and analytical abilities to evaluate and work on topics
  • Willingness to work independently and in a structured manner - especially in distance learning
  • Communication skills, text security, and creativity for developing cross-media content
  • Motivation to continuously develop professional skills

All facts about the Bachelor's in Journalism (B.A.) in IU distance learning

In the Bachelor's programme in Journalism at the IU International University, you will learn how to research, prepare and publish content for various media formats – print, online, and audiovisual media. The programme is designed as a pure distance learning course, offering you maximum flexibility in terms of scheduling. It provides practical training in the entire journalistic toolkit – from basics to special topics such as Social Media Marketing or TV and Web Moderation.

What will you learn in the Journalism programme at IU?

  • Scientific and digital skills: You will start with introductions to Media and Communication Sciences, academic work, and Digital Skills.
  • Journalistic core competencies: The focus is on media processes – research, conception, editing, and production. You will practice all relevant formats in a project-based manner: traditional print media, online formats, and audiovisual contributions (audio, video, animation).
  • Media ethics and law: Topics such as media ethics, media history, and media law are an integral part of the curriculum and prepare you for a responsible handling of information.
  • Market understanding: Modules on media economics and market research, supplemented by basic business knowledge, round off the economic know-how.
  • Content strategy and editorial management: You will learn how modern editorial offices function, how storytelling is methodically developed, and how digital tools such as Content Management Systems are used.
  • Modular structure for individual specialization: In the elective area, you specialize according to your interests, for example, in Editorial Lab (data and editorial journalism), Social Media Marketing, or TV and Web Moderation. Another special feature: The portfolio module accompanies you from the fourth semester, allowing you to develop practical own works for your personal online portfolio.

How the distance learning programme in Journalism at IU works

  • Start studying anytime: You can start studying flexibly – there are no fixed application deadlines or start dates for semesters.
  • Flexible scheduling: You can choose between full-time (36 months) or part-time options (48 or 72 months). Switching to another model is possible at any time during the course of your studies. Extensions and sabbatical semesters are free of charge.
  • Studying 100% online: All lectures, exams, and projects can be completed entirely digitally – from anywhere, at any time. IU provides you with digital learning scripts, online courses, interactive tools, and a modern learning platform (myCampus + AI learning assistant) for this purpose.
  • Exams with maximum flexibility: You can take exams online at any time. Upon request, exams can also be taken at IU's exam centres.
  • Recognition of previous achievements: If you have already completed training or further education programmes or have professional experience, you can have these recognized for your studies, thus saving time and costs.
  • Test phase: You can test the programme for one month without obligation – fees only apply if you continue studying thereafter.

What you can do after the study: Professions and career paths

  • Journalists: After completing the Bachelor's degree, you are qualified for traditional journalistic activities as an editor, reporter, or correspondent for print, online, or audiovisual media.
  • Moderation: The course also specifically prepares for moderation tasks in TV and online, including interview management and live communication.
  • Editorial management and social media: Specializations in the digital field enable entry and career in multimedia editorial offices, social media teams, communication agencies, or corporate content management.
  • Career examples:
    • Correspondent (e.g. for news magazines or international editorial teams)
    • TV, web, or podcast moderator
    • Online editors for websites, digital magazines, social media channels
    • Content creator for media companies, NGOs, companies, and associations
  • The practice-oriented online portfolio from the study provides the perfect basis for your applications in the media industry.

Study location: Completely online with digital tools

  • Study independent of location: You can study from anywhere – at home, on the go, or wherever you have the best access to the internet and your learning materials.
  • Digital infrastructure: IU provides you with a modern learning platform, online campus, digital library (60,000 e-books), as well as access to LinkedIn Learning and office tools.
  • Community and support: Virtual teaching formats, personal study coaches, and the opportunity to exchange ideas with fellow students and lecturers via chat, forums, or video calls.

Costs and financing options at a glance

  • Tuition fees:
    • Full-time model (36 months): €379 per month
    • Part-time model I (48 months): €329 per month
    • Part-time model II (72 months): €249 per month
  • You can switch models at any time. Extensions and sabbatical semesters are possible free of charge.
  • During promotional periods, there are regularly special discounts (e.g. €1,444 discount + free iPad when applying by 28.08).
  • Inclusive services: Exchange with instructors, study and career coaching, access to LinkedIn Learning, software licenses, digital learning materials, optional semesters abroad.
  • Financial aid: BAföG, education loans, scholarships, or cost coverage by the employer are possible. IU offers an online financing check for individual calculations.
  • Recognition of previous achievements saves €30 per ECTS point recognized, so extensive recognition can significantly reduce the financial burden.

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