Master of Arts in Comparative Media Studies

Comparative Media Research at the University of Lucerne offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive approach to understanding media phenomena in their social, cultural, political, and technological contexts. This Master's degree programme is designed for students interested in analyzing different media forms, their interactions, and their impacts on society. Students will explore a wide range of topics including communication theories, media history, digital media, media policy, and media literacy. The programme emphasizes critical thinking and research skills, enabling graduates to conduct independent studies and produce innovative insights into contemporary media landscapes.

Throughout the course, students engage with both qualitative and quantitative research methods tailored to media analysis. The curriculum includes modules on empirical media research, media theories, media systems, and the cultural implications of media technologies. Additionally, the programme provides opportunities for practical experience through internships and project work, fostering connections with media organizations and research institutions. This prepares students for careers in media analysis, journalism, communication consultancy, media policy advising, or academic research.

The interdisciplinary nature of the programme encourages collaboration across fields such as sociology, political science, communication studies, and digital technologies. This broad scope equips students with a versatile skill set adaptable to various professions within the dynamic media industry. The faculty comprises experienced researchers and practitioners committed to fostering an engaging learning environment that promotes critical inquiry and innovative thinking. Graduates will be equipped to critically assess media trends, contribute to media development, and influence public discourse through informed research and analysis. The university's location in Lucerne provides a vibrant cultural setting and access to a network of media organizations, enhancing students’ professional and academic development.

The Master of Arts in Comparative Media Research at the University of Lucerne offers an in-depth exploration of media systems, communication processes, and cultural phenomena across different societies. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of how media influence social, political, and cultural developments worldwide. Throughout the course of study, students engage with theoretical frameworks and methodological skills necessary for analyzing a wide range of media formats, including print, broadcast, digital, and social media. The programme emphasizes critical thinking and analytical abilities, encouraging students to examine media content, production processes, and consumption patterns from a comparative perspective.

Students will explore topics such as media history, media policy, audience studies, media literacy, and the impact of digital technologies on contemporary communication landscapes. The curriculum integrates both qualitative and quantitative research methods to enable students to conduct independent investigations and produce original scholarly work. In addition, the programme fosters a strong international orientation, offering opportunities for intercultural exchange and study visits, which enhance understanding of global media practices.

Collaborations with media organizations, research institutes, and cultural institutions provide practical insights and opportunities for hands-on experience. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in media research, policy analysis, journalism, communication consultancy, and academia. They will possess a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between media production and societal change, capable of critically assessing media's role in shaping public opinion and cultural identities worldwide. The programme aims to develop informed, reflective, and innovative media scholars and professionals equipped to confront the challenges of an ever-evolving media landscape.

Program Requirements: The Bachelor’s degree in Comparative Media Research at the University of Lucerne mandates the successful completion of comprehensive coursework in media studies, communication theories, and qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Prospective students are expected to demonstrate a strong foundational knowledge of media landscapes, cultural contexts, and analytical skills necessary for comparative analysis. Admission criteria typically include a recognized secondary school leaving certificate or equivalent qualification, along with proof of proficiency in English and/or German, depending on the language of instruction. Applicants may need to submit a motivation letter detailing their interest in media research, a curriculum vitae, and academic transcripts illustrating relevant coursework. While prior experience in media, communication, or social sciences is advantageous, it is not strictly required, as the program provides foundational instruction in these areas. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to develop critical thinking, research competencies, and practical skills, such as data analysis and media content evaluation. Students are also expected to participate in seminars, workshops, and research projects that foster collaborative learning and real-world application of theoretical knowledge. Additionally, there may be specific prerequisite courses or modules that ensure students have essential skills before progressing to advanced topics. The program's structure integrates coursework, research work, and possibly internships or fieldwork to prepare students for careers in academia, media industry, or policy analysis. Overall, the program aims to equip students with comprehensive expertise in comparative media studies, emphasizing scholarly inquiry, methodological rigor, and cultural awareness to address contemporary media issues and phenomena.

Сравнительное медиаисследование в Университете Люцерна, как и большинство магистерских программ в области гуманитарных и социальных наук, обычно финансируется за счет нескольких источников. Студенты могут рассчитывать на возможность получения различных стипендий, грантов и финансовой поддержки. В университете существуют внутренние стипендии, предоставляемые на основе академической успеваемости, финансовых потребностей или иных критериев, установленных университетом. Также студенты могут подавать заявки на внешние стипендии и гранты, предлагаемые государственными органами, фондами или международными организациями, поддерживающими образование и исследовательскую деятельность в области медиа и коммуникаций. В большинстве случаев, обучение по программе Comparative Media Research не является полностью бесплатным, и студенты несут расходы на обучение, проживание, учебные материалы и оформление визы (при необходимости). Для студентов, требующих финансовой помощи, университет предоставляет консультации и рекомендации относительно возможностей финансирования, включая платные и бесплатные образовательные кредиты или стипендии. В Университете Люцерна ценится разнообразие источников финансирования, поэтому студенты поощряются к поиску всех возможных вариантов поддержки. Что касается стоимости обучения, то для иностранных студентов в сентябре 2023 года, стоимость обучения на магистерских программах в университете составляет примерно 1,000 - 1,500 CHF за семестр, что может варьироваться в зависимости от конкретных условий. Студенты также должны учитывать дополнительные затраты на жизнь в Люцерне, которые могут включать аренду жилья, транспорт, питание и учебные материалы, оцениваемые в среднем на уровне 20,000 - 25,000 CHF в год. В рамках программы возможны исследовательские гранты и проектные финансирования для студентов, участвующих в совместных исследованиях или конференциях. Университет активно советует студентам планировать свои финансы заранее и использовать все доступные ресурсы для обеспечения финансовой стабильности в течение обучения.

The Master of Arts in Comparative Media Research at the University of Lucerne offers students an interdisciplinary and research-oriented approach to understanding media and communication in various cultural and societal contexts. The program focuses on examining different media forms, their development, influence, and the interplay between media and society from a comparative perspective. Students engage with theoretical frameworks, methodological approaches, and practical skills necessary to analyze contemporary media phenomena critically.

The curriculum typically includes courses in media theories, research methods, cultural studies, digital media, and communication strategies. Students are encouraged to develop their research projects, often culminating in a master's thesis that contributes new insights into media research. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in media analysis, journalism, cultural management, academic research, or further doctoral studies.

The program is designed to foster an international and interdisciplinary learning environment, attracting students from diverse backgrounds, including media studies, communication sciences, cultural studies, and related fields. Students benefit from the university's strong ties to research institutions and media organizations, offering opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, and conferences. The faculty members are experienced researchers and practitioners committed to high-quality education and innovative research.

Studying at the University of Lucerne provides access to modern facilities, a vibrant academic community, and a location conducive to cultural and media exchanges. The program emphasizes critical thinking, methodological rigor, and the application of theoretical knowledge to current media challenges. Graduates of the Master's program in Comparative Media Research are well-equipped to pursue careers in media analysis, policy advising, content creation, or academia, where they can contribute to understanding and shaping the role of media in contemporary society.