Study Overview BSc Communication Science

The English-taught Bachelor's programme in Communication Science takes three years to complete and leads to the title of Bachelor of Science. After graduating, students can move directly into a Master's programme, such as the Master's in Communication Science at the University of Twente, or choose to enter the job market.

Modules Communication Science

Each academic year is divided into four modules, with each module lasting 10 weeks and worth 15 European credits (EC). The modules include four main parts:

• Projects
• Theory
• Research
• Academic and Professional Skills

These parts are closely linked within the module, with the project at the heart, focusing on a current, real-world issue. Students will learn the theory behind the topic, how to research it properly, and how to communicate ideas clearly and professionally.

Overview Modules

The programme consists of 12 modules, with the first year covering:

Year 1 EC

• Module 1 | We connect society (15 EC)
  • Project: Develop a popular content strategy related to one of the UN's global sustainable development goals.
  • Theory: Introduction to basic theories, models, and concepts explaining human connection and behavior.
  • Research: Social science research, including formulating research questions and selecting research designs and data collection methods.
  • Skills: Writing, visual design, and collaboration in an international project group.
• Module 2 | Understanding media (15 EC)
  • Project: Conduct a survey on social media and happiness, influencer marketing, or motivations to play games.
  • Theory: Media theories, cultivation of beliefs, media choice, and selective exposure.
  • Research: Quantitative research, including survey design and analysis.
  • Skills: Creating a theoretical framework and presenting research findings.
• Module 3 | The innovation journey (15 EC)
  • Project: Set up a communication agency and advise a start-up on innovation perception based on big data media analysis.
  • Theory: Corporate communication theories, including corporate identity, reputation, and crisis communication.
  • Research: Introduction to big data analytics and methods for analyzing online information.
  • Skills: Basic academic and professional skills of a public relations professional.
• Module 4 | Design for user experience (15 EC)
  • Project: Design a prototype of an app aiming to positively change target group behavior.
  • Theory: Relations between humans and technology, and how technology can influence human behavior.
  • Research: Qualitative data collection methods used in user-centered design processes.
  • Skills: Communicating with companies interested in collaborating on app development and presenting app design in a competitive pitch.

The second year covers:

Year 2 EC

• Module 5 | The network society (15 EC)
  • Project: Create a transmedia story using several social media technologies to present research results.
  • Theory: Forces driving the development of the digital environment and its impact on society.
  • Research: Analyzing social network data.
  • Skills: Audio-visual design and storytelling.
• Module 6 | Lead the change (15 EC)
  • Project: Explore an unexplained organizational communication phenomenon through interviews.
  • Theory: How new technologies change businesses and organizing, including leadership and change management.
  • Research: Performing in-depth interviews and analyzing qualitative data.
  • Skills: Setting up and giving an engaging workshop.
• Module 7 | Persuasive design (15 EC)
  • Project: Design a behavior change intervention based on insights into human-technology interaction and multisensory design.
  • Theory: Human-technology interaction, multisensory design, and consumer psychology.
  • Research: Quantitative experimental research tools.
  • Skills: Reporting a study as a scientific publication.
• Module 8 | The quantified self (15 EC)
  • Project: Experience and reflect on the meaning of data in a digitized society through a social experiment.
  • Theory: Moral philosophy, philosophy of language, and philosophy of technology related to data and quantification.
  • Research: Deep data and predictive modeling.
  • Skills: Presenting a standpoint on a societal issue related to the 'quantified self' using sound arguments and rhetorical instruments.

The third year covers:

Year 3 EC

• Modules 9&10 | Electives (15 EC)
  • Students fill the elective space according to their wishes and ambitions, choosing from various options such as taking subjects from other Bachelor's programs, spending half a year studying at another university, doing an internship, or completing a pre-master's programme.
• Module 11 | COM @ work (10 EC)
  • Exploration of trends, societal developments, and dynamics within the professional field of communication science.
  • Company visits and interviews with graduates of the Master's in Communication Science.
  • Final product: A podcast about views on the professional field of communication science.
• Module 12 | Bachelor thesis (20 EC)
  • Independent research on a relevant subject of interest, including literature reviews and data collection.
  • Application of all knowledge and skills acquired throughout the programme.
  • Final product: A research report and presentation of results during a symposium.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements and further details on the programme are available, emphasizing the importance of meeting specific criteria for progression and completion of the Bachelor's in Communication Science.

University of Twente Summary

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Overview:

University of Twente (UT) is a research university located in Enschede, Netherlands. It is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and strong focus on technology and innovation.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The University of Twente offers a vibrant campus experience with opportunities to join student teams, associations, and participate in sports. Students can expect a diverse and international community.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Entrepreneurial Focus:

UT is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and encourages students to develop innovative ideas and solutions.

Strong Research:

The university boasts state-of-the-art research institutes and lab facilities in various fields, including nanotechnology, biomedical technology, IT, and engineering.

International Environment:

UT attracts students and researchers from around the world, fostering a diverse and global learning environment.

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Academic Programs:

UT offers a wide range of bachelor's and master's programs across various disciplines, including:

Business Studies and Public Policy

Engineering & Technology

Information Technology (IT)

Life Sciences & Medicine

Natural Sciences

Social Sciences

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Other:

The university also provides education for professionals and prospective students through online courses (MOOCs), PhD and EngD programs, pre-university programs, and Studium Generale lectures.