Program Overview

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Introduction to the Bachelor's Program in Media Studies

The Bachelor's program in Media Studies at the University of Groningen is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program that explores the informative and social function of media in contemporary life. The program is designed to provide students with a solid understanding of the ways in which media shape our understanding of the world and the ways in which societies are organized culturally, politically, and economically.

Program Description

The program is a full-time, three-year Bachelor's degree that consists of 180 ECTS credits. The curriculum is divided into three years, with each year building on the previous one to provide students with a gradual and in-depth understanding of media studies. The program's distinctive features include an international, comparative, and interdisciplinary curriculum, a focus on the informative and social function of media, emphasis on theoretical perspectives and methodological skills, and attention to professional skills.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured around three learning pathways: theoretical, methodological, and professional. The theoretical pathway provides students with a solid knowledge base in media studies, while the methodological pathway equips students with sound methodological training. The professional pathway prepares students for the labor market by providing them with practical skills and knowledge.

Year 1

In the first year, students get familiar with different relevant media platforms and industries and with Media Studies as an academic discipline. They acquire the necessary academic skills and earn 60 ECTS credits.

Year 2

In the second year, the emphasis shifts to in-depth theoretical and methodological training. Students take a profile of their choice within the Theory Pathways course and earn 60 ECTS credits.

Year 3

In the third year, students do (semi-)independent research and make a choice as to which minor they would like to follow. They earn 60 ECTS credits.

Facts and Figures

• Degree: BA in Media Studies
• Course type: Bachelor
• Duration: 36 months (180 EC)
• Croho code: 50906
• Language of instruction: English
• Start: September
• Faculty: Arts

Why Study Media Studies in Groningen?

The program has a specific focus on the informative and social function of media, providing a comparative perspective by studying media in their cultural, international, historical, economic, and political contexts. The program's perspective is more often grounded in social sciences, using methods and theories from social sciences.

Entry Requirements

• Dutch diploma: VWO diploma in English
• International diploma: Equivalent to Dutch VWO diploma
• Language requirement: English (minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 90 or IELTS 6.5)

Admission Requirements

• Previous education: Dutch VWO diploma or equivalent
• Other admission requirements: Language requirement English (minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 90 or IELTS 6.5)

Tuition Fees

• EU/EEA students: € 2601 (2023-2024) and € 2695 (2024-2025)
• Non-EU/EEA students: € 13500 (2023-2024) and € 14000 (2024-2025)

After Graduation

Graduates of the BA Media Studies program have access to various Master's tracks at the University of Groningen, including Media, Creation and Innovation, Media, Digital Transformations and Society, Journalism, and Arts, Media and Literary Studies. The program prepares students for careers in media, the creative industry, or any other field that has job openings.

Research in Media Studies

The Media Studies staff implements diverse research projects in the field of Media Studies, collaborating with other international universities. The program integrates research projects into the curriculum, providing students with knowledge of theories and methodologies from experts in the field.

Study Associations

MESA is the study association of the Bachelor and Master programs of Media Studies. The association aims to help the cultural and academic growth of its members and improve contact between them.

Binding Study Advice

A minimum of 45 EC in the first 12 months is required to proceed to the second year. Students will be offered study advice after the first year of study.

Study Support

The study advisor is available to answer questions and provide support. The advisor knows all the ins and outs of the program and can help students find the right institutions and student desks for any problems they might encounter.

Related Master's Programs

The University of Groningen offers various Master's programs related to Media Studies, including Media, Digital Transformations and Society, Journalism, and Arts, Media and Literary Studies.