Program Overview

Communication Science Programme

The Communication Science programme at VU Amsterdam is designed to explore the impact of media and communication on individuals, businesses, media, and politics. The programme focuses on the theme of media use, communication in and by organisations, and the role of communication and social media in society.

Programme Overview

The programme is a three-year Bachelor's degree that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Students will learn about the effects of media on health campaigns and public debate, analyse interactions between individuals, and study the organisational perspective of marketing and PR.

Curriculum

The curriculum is divided into three years, each with a specific focus:

• First Year: The first year is immersed in the theme of media use. Students research their own media use and that of their fellow students, and study communication in and by organisations.
  • Subjects:
    • Introduction to Communication Science
    • Breaking News: Understanding Journalism in Society
    • Project 1: Mediated Reality
    • Interpersonal Communication
    • Social Research Methodology
    • Behaviour and Communication in Organizations
    • Descriptive and Inferential Statistics
    • Project 2: Strategic Communication
    • History of Social Science
    • Public Relations and Reputation Management
• Second Year: The second year focuses on two key areas: marketing communication and political communication. Students learn how to persuade others with their message, set up a marketing campaign, and investigate the role of communication and social media in society.
  • Subjects:
    • Marketing and Persuasive Communication
    • Quantitative Research Methodology
    • Project 3: Effective Persuasion
    • Media Entertainment
    • Media, Power, and Technology
    • Philosophy of Science
    • Project 4: Social Media Analytics
    • Risk and Health Communication
• Third Year: In the first semester of the final year, students shape their own curriculum by doing an internship, studying abroad, or following a minor. In the second semester, they research a relevant issue and write their Bachelor's thesis.
  • Subjects:
    • Mentorship Communication Science Year 3
    • Current Media Challenges
    • Multivariate Analysis
    • Bachelor's Thesis in Communication Science

Career Prospects

As a graduate of Communication Science, students can work as a communications adviser or a spokesperson for a government ministry, a PR firm, or a webcare department. The programme also provides a solid foundation for further specialisation through a Master's programme.

Programme Details

• Start date: September 1st
• Duration: Three years
• Language: English (with the option to follow the programme in Dutch)