Studierende in der A3-Bibliothek

Bachelor's Program in Media and Communication Studies

I chose the University of Mannheim for its combination of Media and Communication Studies that is quite unique in Germany. My studies included many theoretical lectures but I also had the opportunity to carry out my own small research projects. I chose Psychology as a minor, which perfectly complemented my major since the lectures in Media and Communication Studies also addressed several psychological topics. If you are interested in media and communication like I am and want to make the unique experience of studying in a palace building, this program is perfect for you!

Tina Ratajczyk, graduate of the bachelor’s program in Media and Communication Studies / Credit: Elisa Berdica

The Media and Communication Studies program taught me scientific methods used to study new media as a social phenomenon. I could apply this differentiated view of media and communication during internships in the fields of corporate communication and marketing. The University of Mannheim has excellent international partnerships which enabled me to spend a semester in Japan and encouraged me to pursue a master’s degree in England.

Therese Nguyen, graduate of the bachelor's program in Media and Communication Studies / Photo credit: Elisa Berdica
  • Program facts and information

    Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

    Standard period of study: 6 semesters (3 years)

    ECTS credits: approx. 180
    (approx. 150 in core subject, approx. 30 in minor subject)

    Language of instruction: German, English

    Language requirements: If you are not a German citizen or do not have a German university entrance qualification (Abitur or equivalent school leaving certificate), you must prove German language proficiency at C1 level.

    Program start: Fall semester (September)
    Academic calendar

    School: School of Humanities

    Semester fee: EUR 204.30 (more information)
    Tuition fees for international students from non-EU countries: EUR 1,500
    Tuition fees for a second degree: EUR 650

  • Program overview

    The bachelor’s program in Media and Communication Studies addresses questions such as: How do we use smartphones, the Internet, and instant messaging? Which role does the media play in society and politics?

    In addition to the basic principles of public, social, political and mass-media communication, and mass media, students will learn about:

    • media and communication theories
    • mediated public communication
    • audiovisual media
    • exposure to, and effects of, media use

    The program focuses on quantitative research methods in media and communication studies and may include qualitative or computer-assisted automated methods. The program is complemented by practice-oriented seminars that prepare you for your later career.

    You can also choose a subject from the humanities or social sciences, such as German Studies, Philosophy, or Political Science, to study as a minor. This gives you the chance to develop your own professional profile.

  • Why study Media and Communication Studies at the University of Mannheim?

    In Mannheim, you can study Media and Communication Studies as one degree program, whereas at other universities, these fields are usually studied separately. Another advantage of this bachelor's program is its inclusion of aspects from cultural studies and the social sciences.

    With 450 partner universities, and students from 100 countries, Mannheim is one of the most international universities in the country, and provides students with an inspiring learning environment that facilitates excellent teaching and research.

    Students at the School of Humanities value the ability to work in small groups. Academic advisors, program managers, and teachers are happy to answer your questions on the program.

    The subject “Media and Communication Studies” at the University of Mannheim has achieved top positions in the international Shanghai ranking.

  • Career opportunities

    Graduates of the program can go into journalism, advertising, or work in a communications  department. If you choose to complete a master's program, you can also pursue an academic career.

  • Required interests and skills

    Students of Media and Communication Studies should

    • be interested in the scientific analysis of media,
    • read frequently (in English and German),
    • enjoy researching different communication processes,
    • be capable of critical thinking and like discussing topics,
    • enjoy writing academic texts.
  • Program structure

    Module catalog
    You can find further details on how the program is structured in the module catalog (only available in German).

    Studying abroad
    The University of Mannheim is part of a global network. The School of Humanities is partners with over 150 universities worldwide, and, in collaboration with the International Office, can help you plan a period of study abroad. We recommend that students go abroad during the fourth or fifth subject-specific semester, but it is possible to make individual arrangements. Studying abroad is optional, and is encouraged by the School.

    Internships
    A six-week internship in Germany or abroad is integrated into the program of study. Our program managers can help you to find an internship, create your application documents, and advise you on the recognition of internships.

  • Continuing Education

    Certificate programs
    Strengthen your potential, deepen your knowledge, find solutions for challenges we will face tomorrow – there are many good reasons to think outside the box, get to know and try out new things even during your studies.

    At the University of Mannheim, you can do this in the “Studium Oecologicum” which focuses on sustainability. In our certificate program, you will acquire interdisciplinary expert knowledge which can help you to act ethically and to make holistic decisions.

    Continuing education services in academics

    Language courses
    Making language learning easier: No matter if you want to learn Japanese, Hebrew, Spanish or Norwegian, take the Graduate Record Examination Test (GRE), The European Language Certificates (telc) or the TOEFL test – each semester, the University of Mannheim offers language courses and language certificates in more than 16 languages for students and non-university members, online and on campus!

    Language courses at the University of Mannheim

    Studium Generale
    Are you interested in IT or communication trainings or theater, music, or drawing courses? Studium Generale has a vast range of courses available to all.

    Current Studium Generale program

  • Further study

    The following degree program is (mainly) taught in German:  

    Master’s program in Media and Communication Studies: Digital Communication (M.A.) 

  • Application and selection

    At the University of Mannheim, a traditional numerus clausus (within the meaning of a minimum grade required for admission) does not exist. In our selection process, we take numerous criteria into account. For more details, please check the selection statutes (see below). Be bold! Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need advice. We are looking forward to receiving your application!

    In our selection process for the Bachelor's Program in Media and Communication Studies, we take the following criteria into account:

    • the grade average achieved in your university entrance qualification,
    • relevant work experience and extracurricular activities.

    German language proficiency
    If you are not a German citizen or do not have a German university entrance qualification (Abitur or equivalent school leaving certificate), you must prove German language proficiency at C1 level.

    Selection statutes
    Under “Application and selection” we have compiled the most important selection criteria of the program for you. For more detailed explanations of the selection process and the legally binding requirements of the degree program, please refer to the selection statutes.

    If the program of study is currently not selective, you will receive a study place if you fulfill all admission requirements and apply in due time and form.

    Application

    • The application deadline for our bachelor's programs for the fall semesters starts on 1 June and ends on 15 July.

Learn more about the School of Humanities

Contact

Dr. Angelika Konrad-Schineller

Dr. Angelika Konrad-Schineller

Program Manager Bachelor of Arts
University of Mannheim
School of Humanities
Schloss – Room EO 282
68161 Mannheim
Consultation hour(s):
Tue 10–12 a.m.
Open consultation hours in room 282

Wed 10–12 a.m.
Online consultation hours – please make an appointment via https://www.phil.uni-mannheim.de/en/academics/virtual-office-hours/
Kristin Nordhaus

Kristin Nordhaus

Program Manager Bachelor of Arts
University of Mannheim
School of Humanities
Schloss – Room EO 282
68161 Mannheim
Consultation hour(s):
Tue 10–12 a.m.
Open consultation hours in room 282

Wed 10–12 a.m.
Online consultation hours – please make an appointment via https://www.phil.uni-mannheim.de/en/academics/virtual-office-hours/
Admissions Office

Admissions Office

Students have voted the University of Mannheim “Top University” and winner
in the category “Most popular university with 5,000 – 15,000 students” on the student evaluation portal Studycheck.de!