Bachelor Degree Programs

In the digital age, classical media such as print, TV and radio are growing together. In the Net, people combine different channels as a matter of course. This has changed journalism and PR for good: the media, industry and agencies look for editors who can report on current topics using all the different channels – print, audio, video and online. The new degree programme Cross Media Journalism provides expertise in exactly these specialists.

Contents and Structure

Since the winter semester 2012/13, the degree programme Cross Media Journalism trains ten cross-media specialists per semester. The degree programme teaches important key competences which are necessary for working on cross-media-based, current topics in editorial offices and departments. In the first semesters, the focus is on basic journalism – from news-writing through research to special presentation forms like documentaries and interviews. Similarly, students learn about basic design, for example, in web design, social media and business models in the digital world. Students also acquire basic technical knowledge of content management systems and how to programme mobile applications. These skills are applied in practice in Stuttgart Media University’s own cross-media teaching editorial office, the Convergent Media Center. In the integrated practical semester, this hands-on experience is extended.

Additionally, students gain an insight into media economics and media law as well as basic knowledge of management which they can apply in editorial work. At the same time, they can reflect on their practical training in communication sciences lectures and learn about important methods of carrying out media research. At the end of their studies, students can conceive and report webpages, apps or topics so that the strengths of each channel – print, web, audio and video – are optimally combined. The sixth semester is our international semester. It is taught completely in English and can be attended separately as 30 ECTS minor program "Innovative Content Strategies". It contains lectures on leadership, innovation management, content management and an international content project. After the seventh semester, the degree programme ends with a scientifically oriented Bachelor’s thesis. Naturally, part of the degree programme can be undertaken abroad; details are laid down in the student’s learning agreement.

Perspectives

After successful completion of the degree, students can work in the editorial offices of journalistic media – from regional media companies to national online providers. The way is also open to work in the cross-media departments of book and specialist publishers, in PR agencies or in the communication departments of companies, especially in the field of corporate publishing.

Admission

The degree programme starts in the winter and summer semester. Student places are limited. Applicants must complete a pre-degree practical placement of at least six weeks and there is also a selection interview.