Communication and Information Studies

Communication and Information Studies at Radboud University offers an interdisciplinary program designed to explore the complex ways in which information is created, transmitted, and understood within society. The program combines theoretical insights with practical skills, preparing students to analyze media, communication processes, and information systems across diverse contexts. Students will examine contemporary issues such as digital media influence, societal communication dynamics, and the role of information technology in social change. The curriculum covers core topics including media theory, communication research methods, information design, data analysis, and ethical considerations in media and communication. Courses are designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and applied competencies through a blend of lectures, assignments, and projects. The program emphasizes both academic rigor and real-world relevance, encouraging students to engage with current developments in media and information technology through case studies and internships. Radboud University’s strong research community provides a stimulating environment where students can participate in innovative projects and contribute to scholarly debates. Graduates of this program will be equipped to work in various fields such as media organizations, communication consultancy, information management, public relations, and digital media industries. They will also be prepared for further academic research or careers in policy development related to communication and information. The program's international orientation provides a global perspective on communication issues, making students ready to operate effectively in a connected world. Facilities include access to advanced media labs, research centers, and a supportive academic community committed to personalized education. With a focus on ethical and responsible communication, the program aims to develop professionals capable of making meaningful contributions to society’s information landscape.

The Master's program in Communication and Information Studies at Radboud University offers an in-depth exploration of the complex ways in which information, communication, and media influence society, culture, and individual behavior. This program is designed for students who are interested in understanding the dynamics of communication processes across various platforms and contexts, including digital media, traditional mass communication, organizational communication, and intercultural exchanges. Throughout the program, students will develop a comprehensive theoretical foundation combined with practical skills to analyze and critically evaluate contemporary communication phenomena.

Curriculum topics include media theory, digital communication, data and information management, intercultural communication, and the societal impact of new media technologies. Students will engage with current issues such as media ethics, privacy, misinformation, and the role of social media in social movements. The program emphasizes research skills, enabling students to design, conduct, and analyze empirical studies related to communication processes. It encourages a multidisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from sociology, psychology, media studies, and information science.

Students will have access to modern research facilities and are encouraged to participate in projects, internships, and collaborations with media organizations. The program fosters critical thinking, creativity, and innovation, preparing graduates for careers in media analysis, communication consultancy, policy advising, digital content creation, and roles within NGOs, government agencies, or private corporations. Upon completion, graduates will possess a nuanced understanding of how information is produced, managed, and used in various sectors, and how it shapes societal trends and individual experiences. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals, with options for specialization and electives. This program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become effective and responsible communicators and information specialists in an increasingly interconnected world.

A completed Bachelor's degree in Communication and Information Studies or related area

In general, students' previous education should reflect their affinity with the following subject areas: Communication Studies, Management & Organisation, Intercultural Communication or (Inter) Cultural Studies, and Linguistics. Unfortunately, at present we only offer a Dutch-taught pre-Master’s programmes in Communication and Information Studies.

Experience in quantitative research

As conducting communication research is an essential component of this programme, candidates should have experience in doing quantitative research (e.g. experimental or survey research) and knowledge of inferential statistics (e.g. t-test, ANOVA, Chi-square)

Proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to be highly fluent in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers* of English without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:

• TOEFL score of ≥580 (paper based) or >92 (internet based)
• IELTS score of ≥7.0 (overall band) and ≥6.5 (writing)
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE), with a mark of at least B
• Cambridge Proficiency in English (CPE), with a mark of at least C
• successful completion of a Bachelor's programme that was taught completely in the English language in one of the following countries: EU/EEA-countries, Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), New Zealand, USA.

Motivation

We’ll also be looking at your portfolio, practical experience (for example, studies or work experience abroad) and motivation to determine whether you meet the requirements and are suitable for this programme. An interview may be part of the selection process.

 * Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are from Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

Communication and Information Studies at Radboud University offers a comprehensive bachelor’s program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the critical role that communication and information play in contemporary society. The program focuses on various dimensions of communication, including media, language, and technology, and explores their impact on culture, politics, and daily life. Students will gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills that enable them to analyze communication processes, develop effective communication strategies, and understand the influence of digital technology on information dissemination. The curriculum includes courses on media theory, communication management, data analysis, and digital communication, allowing students to acquire a broad set of competencies applicable in numerous professional fields. The program emphasizes active learning through lectures, seminars, projects, and internships, fostering critical thinking and real-world application. Radboud University’s focus on interdisciplinarity means that students will engage with perspectives from sociology, psychology, linguistics, and information science, ensuring a well-rounded education. The faculty consists of experienced researchers and practitioners dedicated to providing mentorship and practical insights. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in media organizations, communication consultancy, public relations, digital marketing, and information management. They also have a strong foundation for further academic study at the master’s level in related fields such as media studies, communication science, or information science. The program is taught in English and is designed to prepare students for the complexities of communication in a globalized, digitalized world.