Insights into the Degree Program
Focus of the Program
The Applied Communication Studies program deepens students’ knowledge and exposes them to current perspectives in communication studies. Through a combination of academic rigor and practical application, students learn to identify and critically analyze complex challenges in the communications and media industries, as well as to develop strategic solutions. Both current developments in the field of digital media and issues related to reception, social responsibility, and regulation play a role in this process.
Combining Theory and Practice
Scientific theories and findings are specifically applied to real-world questions and challenges. In courses, students work on case studies and assignments that are based on real-life communication situations. Direct interaction with experts during guest lectures or field trips provides immediate insights into the broader context and day-to-day work in the field of communication.
Research and Methodological Expertise
Through research projects, students strengthen their methodological skills and their ability to independently develop scientifically sound solutions. By choosing the topics for their research projects and master’s theses, they can set their own areas of focus.
- In the Research Project module, students used eye-tracking to investigate the influence of gender-neutral language on reading behavior. You can find an article about the project here.
- For the Advanced Communication Studies module, students developed research designs for a real-world call for papers. They presented these designs as posters. Here are two examples:
Career Prospects
The program prepares students for leadership roles in strategic communication and communication management. Graduates possess skills in analysis, strategy, and practical application, qualifying them for roles in conceptual development and counselling as well as for research-oriented tasks.
PR Advisory Board
The Department of Media has established an advisory board for the two communication degree programs—“Public Relations and Corporate Communication” (B.A.) and “Applied Communication Studies” (M.A.)—composed of professionals from the fields of journalism and public relations. All information about the advisory board is available here.
Below are introductions to some of the advisory board members:
Lisa Körtke
Advisory Board Member
Senior Social Media Manager, Gebrüder Heinemann
WHAT INSPIRES ME ABOUT MY JOB AS A COMMUNICATOR
I’m inspired by the fact that social media has shifted and broken down the communication barriers between companies and their target audiences. For us as communicators, this development is both an opportunity and a challenge—but for me, the opportunity for even more authentic and platform-specific
communication outweighs the challenge. It’s simply incredibly exciting to see how quickly platforms and features change and how we can make the best possible use of them for ourselves and our clients.
Jacqueline Dauster
Advisory Board Member
Head of Internal Communications, Techniker Krankenkasse
WHAT INSPIRES ME ABOUT MY JOB AS A COMMUNICATIONS PROFESSIONAL
Internal communication is a key factor for success in companies. The better communication flows, the more effectively people work together—and this, in turn, has a positive impact on employee motivation and willingness to perform. Being able to influence this and help shape communication processes within the company is a highly responsible and inspiring task. What appeals to me most about this role is the significant creative freedom, the strong internal networking, and the direct feedback from people at TK. Especially during change processes, my team and I can add value for employees, managers, and ultimately for the entire company.
Max Niklas Gille
Advisory Board Members
, Associate Director, Rosenberg Strategic Communications
WHAT INSPIRES ME ABOUT MY JOB AS A COMMUNICATOR
In recent years, it has become increasingly clear just how deeply communication surrounds and shapes us. Whether in politics, society, or Buisness: without good communication, it becomes increasingly difficult to succeed. That’s what makes this field so incredibly exciting. Technological advancements and ever-evolving forms of communication only add to the excitement. Constant change, new possibilities, and the recurring realization that the basics are what matter most make communication both a craft and a field for experimentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the program director, Prof. Dr. Ann-Kathrin Wenke.
- Who is the Master’s in Applied Communication Studies designed for?
The Master’s program is aimed in particular at graduates of communication and media studies programs who wish to deepen their academic knowledge while preparing for challenging roles in the field of communication. Graduates of other degree programs may also be eligible for admission if they can demonstrate sufficient expertise in communication and media studies. You can find all the information about the application process here.
- What requirements must I meet to apply?
The basic requirement is a first professional degree with a minimum grade of 2.0 in a media or communication studies program. Applicants must demonstrate at least 60 credit points in relevant areas of communication or media studies.
In addition, English proficiency at least at the B2 level is required. You can find all information regarding the application here.
- Can I also apply with a bachelor’s degree worth 180 ECTS?
Yes. If you have fewer than 210 but at least 180 credit points, any missing competencies or credit points can be made up. The examination board determines on a case-by-case basis which courses are required. As a general rule, a total of 300 credit points should be earned across the bachelor’s and master’s programs. You can find all information regarding the application here.
- How long is the length of study, and how is it structured?
The standard duration of study is three semesters, totaling 90 credit points. The specialized modules and the research project take place in the first and second semesters. The third semester is reserved for the master’s thesis and colloquium.
- Is there a maximum duration for the program?
No, there is no maximum duration of study.
- What distinguishes this Master’s program from a more traditional Master’s in Communication or PR?
The program combines strategic and applied communication with communication science analysis, critical engagement with media and society, and independent empirical research. This includes, among other things, PR theories, marketing and brand management, cross-media communication, media reception, media ethics, media governance, and a research project.
- What career prospects do I have after completing the Master’s program?
The Master’s program prepares students for a variety of roles in press and public relations, corporate communications, and related fields of communication.
The academic and methodological training also opens up career opportunities in analysis, research, and strategic counselling.
- Can I easily combine the Master’s program with a part-time job?
In principle, it is possible to work while studying. However, it should be noted that the program is designed as a full-time, on-campus program and requires active participation in courses and the associated workload.
- Where can I find the study and examination regulations?
You can find the study and examination regulations here.