Double Degree Global Communication and International Journalism

Students will get a double-competency qualification based on academic studies and practical training. They will acquire an accurate and deep understanding of communication theory and develop comprehensive knowledge of important research in the field of international media and communication. They will further learn to develop their own research questions in the context of existing theories and relevant research areas. Special significance is attributed to international comparative theoretical and empirical approaches that consider structural changes in media and society: following this perspective, the development of global media and communication processes is understood as crossing national borders.
Professional and independent work on an international level is one of the major goals of the programme. Students analyse and develop a thorough understanding of new media technological developments and the impacts and obstacles of the digitalisation of mediated communication. They critically assess the importance of innovation and globalisation in mass media from political, economic, cultural, legal, and ethical perspectives.

Core Areas of Research and Teaching:

• Communication Studies and Research Methods
• Journalism Studies and Journalistic Practice
• Media Systems in Comparative Perspectives
• Globalisation and Media
• International Journalism Culture
• Modern Media Management
• Internship/Research Practice

Educational organisation

The Master's Programme is organised in ten modules over the period of four semesters. The fourth semester is dedicated to the Master's thesis and the respective research colloquium. All courses are held in English.
The first and third semesters are studied at SPbU in St. Petersburg, the second semester is studied at FUB in Berlin. Depending on the student's individual choice of the MA thesis supervisor (according to research interest and chosen topic), the final semester is either studied at SPbU or FUB.

Internships

An internship of four weeks is to be completed during the summer break between the second and third semesters. Programme advisers will assist students with finding an appropriate internship in media organisations or editorial offices.

Course objectives

The graduates of the double degree programme will be well prepared for a career in journalism as well as an academic career in media research both at universities and in the private sector. They will possess the necessary competencies to engage in editorial boards or management of organisations and various sectors of global mass media. They will be ready to work in media consultancy, political education, and intercultural communication.

Language requirements

Internet-based TOEFL with a result of 80 or better; IELTS with a result of 6 or higher, or an equivalent test.

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree in social sciences or humanities

Enrolment fees

For every student, Freie Universität charges "semester fees and contributions" of approx. 300 EUR. This includes a ticket for public transportation in Berlin.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available in a dormitory or on the private market.