Bachelor’s Program in Media and Communication Studies
Program ambassador
Why I chose this program
The media are omnipresent in today’s society. That’s why they can be looked at from various angles. The program in Media and Communication Studies is interdisciplinary, combining aspects of Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, History, and other Humanities and Social Sciences. That’s what makes the program so versatile.
At the start of your studies you're taught basic theories and methods which you'll need to observe correlations and do research yourself. In seminars and advanced lectures the content will be more specific. You can already specialize in the first semester by choosing particular seminars. For example, I chose The German Media System in International Comparison in the first semester and Film Theories and the Films of their Time in the second semester. In addition, you learn how to write research papers. But you don’t have to decide that early whether to go into journalism, politics, or the movie industry. The program in Media and Communication Studies provides you with the opportunity to get to know more about the different areas.
Studying at the University of Mannheim
What’s special about the program?
As already mentioned, it's simply a great feeling to study in a palace and that's not just because of the beautiful surroundings. The departmental student committee is very dedicated, represents our interests, provides us with helpful information and organizes cool events.
I also like the fact that you choose a minor when studying Media and Communication Studies in Mannheim. I'm studying English and American Studies as a minor and I think the variety between the modules is great.
Various modules also provide students with practical insights. For example, I had a public relations exercise course. Here I learned how to write press releases or create concepts for associations or companies.
Extracurricular activities
The university offers a wide range of sports programs, from gyms to volleyball and rock'n'roll dancing, there is something for everyone. In addition, there are many student organizations you can get involved in. I myself like to go to the spinning or Pilates courses that the university offers.
Overall, the “infrastructure” of the university is really great: there are several well-equipped libraries, a regularly updated online portal and the Mensa meals are very good and affordable. There are also plenty of opportunities to party, with the legendary Schneckenhof parties taking place almost every Thursday on campus.
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, it is also possible to transfer to another university for a master's degree. However, you should find out early on how many ECTS credits are required.
Career opportunities
And then ... we open a cab company with the sociologists?! It does not have to be this way.
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. For example, I am a working student in the marketing team of a start-up.
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, whereas 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. Most friends and family members will show genuine interest, as you can make lots of references to current events.
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. 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?
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