International Media Studies (MA) Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg

The Master's programme "International Media Studies" is especially designed for graduates from developing and transitional countries with previous media experience. The IMS programme is a joint project of the University of Bonn, Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg (H-BRS), and Deutsche Welle (DW) Akademie. DW Akademie offers the perfect learning environment for up to 30 students per year. The programme is conducted in Bonn, Germany. Students from developing countries and countries in transition can apply for a scholarship. Scholarship recipients are to write their Master's theses and complete the degree in their home countries. (The scholarship amounts to 992 EUR per month and tuition fees amounting to 6,000 EUR are waived.)

The interdisciplinary study programme is conducted in English, combining topics such as media and development, journalism, communication science, media economics and digitalisation. The full-time, four-semester Master's degree offers an unparalleled mix of research, lectures, and practical experience and prepares students for careers in the communications and media industries. As media becomes increasingly set in a global context, it is important that media professionals understand the close connection between media, development, and digitalisation. Students conclude the course with a Master's thesis and receive a Master of Arts (MA) academic degree.

The Master's degree programme is characterised by its interdisciplinary and international nature whilst at the same time imparting essential practical skills and competencies in the world of media.

In September, the programme starts with two mandatory introduction weeks (including excursions and workshops).

The first and second semesters give a structured introduction to the analytic relationship between media, politics, and society. The programme provides an explanation of media development, journalism, media economics, and media management, while considering various issues related to intercultural communication.

In the third semester, the syllabus covers topics such as empiricism, media planning, and market research. This is complemented by interdisciplinary subjects such as project management and leadership training.

During the fourth semester, students are required to write their Master's theses in their respective home countries, finishing with a colloquium.

Please see the curriculum overview in the PDF. You will find in-depth descriptions of the modules on the programme's website. 

DW Akademie and University of Bonn

Applicants should have a Bachelor's degree or equivalent and more than one year of professional experience in a media-related field after obtaining their first degree. Scholarship applicants should have at least two years of professional experience after their first degree.

Please see the current semester contribution fees on this page.

Approximately 990 EUR per month

Self-sponsored students are allowed to find part-time employment for a total of 20 hours per week during the semester and may work full-time during the semester break.

Scholarship recipients must seek permission from the programme coordinator and the DAAD before taking up employment and their monthly earnings should not exceed a certain amount. For details, visit the DAAD website.

Highly qualified candidates from selected developing and emerging countries can apply for a scholarship. The scholarship includes a tuition fee waiver as well as 992 EUR per month to cover the cost of living and accommodation. A selection committee will decide which applicants are to receive a scholarship. For more information, please visit the programme website.

Accommodation is available in student residence halls or on the private market. Rent for a room in a student residence varies from around 300 EUR to 500 EUR. The registrar's office offers assistance in finding suitable accommodation in student residences.