Studying at the University of Mannheim
What’s special about the program?
It's a great feeling to study in the Schloss, not only because of the nice atmosphere.
In general, studying at the University of Mannheim is very convenient: the university has several well-equipped libraries, an online portal with all important information, and the value-for-money ratio in the Mensa is also right. What I also like about the program is that I can choose a minor. I settled for German Studies and think that it’s the perfect complement to Media and Communication Studies. The different social skills modules provide you with practical experience. For example, I learned what to bear in mind when developing a series concept. And in the practice-oriented seminar II I gained insights into presenting, and even presented brief introductions to the group.
Extracurricular activities
The departmental student committee is very dedicated, represents our interests, provides us with helpful information, and organizes cool events. The Institute of Sports offers a wide range of sports: from the D2 gym and volleyball to full body workouts, the program caters for all tastes. In addition, there are many student organizations you can get involved in. For example, I sing in the University Choir and I give free lessons as part of the Studenten bilden Schüler organization. During your studies, you don’t want to miss occasional parties, of course. Almost every Thursday the famous Schneckenhof parties take place—at least that was the case before the coronavirus pandemic.
After graduation
Further study
At the University of Mannheim you can complete a master's degree in Media and Communication Studies: Digital Communication. Of course, you can also enroll in a master's program at another university. You should check the respective admission requirements well in advance.
Career opportunities
You're provided with many different career opportunities. Finding your first job can be easy, depending on the career you choose. At the University of Mannheim we are well prepared to pursue a career in academia. If you want to be a journalist, gaining hands-on experience alongside your studies is key. Some of us work freelance, or do internships during the semester breaks or even for an entire semester. I found it helpful to intern with a prospective employer (for example, a TV station). That also increases your chances of starting a practical training there.
What you need to know
Frequently asked questions
Something to do with media? Only few people know what the program in Media and Communication Studies is about—for Mathematics or Medicine that’s quite clear. That's why they always ask, “what is the program about?” and “what exactly do you do?”
At the beginning, it’s not that easy to find short answers because the program in Media and Communication Studies is so versatile and different from your courses at school. But you will soon find appropriate answers and spark the others’ interest in your subject. Most of the time, I just talk about what we’re doing at that moment. For example, I wrote an essay about the influence of national media on the integration of the European public using the example of the refugee crisis.
Clichés
Media and Communication Studies—doesn’t that imply a lot of spare time? It's true that students of this program tend to have fewer classes than others at the University of Mannheim. But that doesn’t automatically mean that you have more free time. The workload is actually quite high. In addition to attending classes, we need to read many texts and write term papers during the semester breaks, which sometimes requires great self-discipline. In return, you may be able to sleep in late on Mondays or start your weekend early on Fridays.
Further information
Would you like to learn more about the program in Media and Communication Studies at the University of Mannheim?
Find everything you need to know in the program descriptions.
Would you like to start your studies at the University of Mannheim?