The Master's program in Journalism combines a solid academic education in communication studies with practical multimedia journalism training—a unique combination in Germany. Graduates are well prepared for positions of responsibility in modern journalism.
Please note that the language of study is German. It is not possible to study within this programm without sufficient German knowledge. Guest students (i.e. ERASMUS) find further informationen here.
The master's program in journalism provides students with the academic foundations, key qualifications, and practical skills needed for a successful career in journalism over the course of four semesters. In close cooperation between the Institute for Communication Science and Media Research (IfKW) and the German School of Journalism (DJS), the program combines communication science theory with intensive multimedia practical training.
At LMU, students gain a solid understanding of the structures, processes, and dynamics of modern media and learn to analyze journalistic practices empirically and reflect on them critically. At the DJS , they train in multimedia work in compact teaching blocks – from research to writing and production to cross-media publication. In addition, they complete two compulsory internships in different media companies, including at least one daily newspaper or news agency, which usually take place in the third and fourth semesters. This unique combination of university teaching, practical journalism training, and supervised professional internships optimally prepares students for the challenges of a constantly changing media world and opens doors to leading positions in editorial offices and media companies. → More about the practical relevance of the IfKW here.
An (optional) semester or year abroad provides insights into international reporting styles and media markets. LMU and the DJS have a broad network of partner institutions that students can use for their international research and career development. Information on the semester abroad can be found here.
Graduates of the Master's program in Journalism work in responsible positions across the entire spectrum of journalism—from daily newspapers, magazines, and news agencies to radio, television, online editorial offices, and multimedia newsrooms. They hold management positions in editorial management, specialized departments, investigative projects, or as correspondents. Jobs in media start-ups, data journalism, cross-media projects, or media and communications consulting are also possible. The combination of academic training at LMU and intensive practical training at the DJS opens up excellent prospects for both traditional journalistic career paths and innovative new media formats.
Get to know graduates of the DJS.
The Master's program in Journalism combines communication science analysis with intensive multimedia practical training. Students explore media structures, reflect on journalistic practices, and train in cross-media production for print, online, TV, radio, and social media.
What role does journalism play in a democratic society—and how is this role changing as a result of media transformation?
Students examine the normative foundations, functions, and structures of journalism. They explore the role of media in democratic societies, examine opinion-forming processes, and reflect on the importance of media ethics, regulation, and journalistic quality. The focus is on the transformation of public communication – from traditional mass media to hybrid media environments to social platforms and algorithmically curated publics. Theoretical foundations are systematically linked to current research debates.
How can media use, media effects, and journalistic processes be explained scientifically?
Here, classic theories—such as agenda setting, uses and gratifications, or the spiral of silence—are combined with newer models that are specifically adapted to the field of journalism, such as platform theories, algorithmic gatekeeping models, or theories of networked public spheres. Students learn to critically compare these approaches, identify theoretical gaps, and derive their own hypotheses from them.
How can journalistic processes and media content be empirically examined?
Students learn qualitative and quantitative methods for analyzing journalistic offerings, editorial structures, audience reactions, and media effects. In doing so, they develop the ability to interpret research results in a practical manner and apply them to editorial decisions.
How are complex topics professionally prepared for different media formats?
Training at the German School of Journalism covers research, interviewing, news and magazine journalism, data journalism, cross-media storytelling, and production for print, online, TV, radio, and social media. Students receive practical training in implementing topics for different target groups and distribution channels. Two mandatory internships at different media companies—including at least one daily newspaper or news agency—provide deep insight into professional practice and help build a professional network. The DJS assists with placements at renowned editorial offices and media companies.
The Master's program in Journalism combines theoretical modules at LMU with intensive training blocks at the German School of Journalism (DJS) and two mandatory internships. The first semester focuses on academic study of media structures, media economics, media effects, and journalism ethics. Starting in the second semester, full-time multimedia practical training at the DJS in print, online, radio, and television journalism follows, supplemented by practical productions. The program concludes with a master's thesis and an oral exam.
Module handbook MA Journalism (detailed) (PDF, 370 KB) | Module overview MA Journalism (PDF, 75 KB)
All coursework in the Master's program in Journalism—from exams taken during the program to the master's thesis and mandatory internships—is graded according to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). One credit point corresponds to 30 hours of work. Registration for exams takes place via the LSF system, and deadlines are announced at the beginning of each semester.
The current examination and study regulations contain all binding rules for the program. They also govern the recognition of academic achievements and examinations. The final decision on recognition and the correct conduct of examinations is made by the examination board, which includes representatives of the IfKW and the DJS. Further information is available here.
Overview of modules, courses, and examinations (PDF, 19 KB) (MA Journalism).
The practical journalism training at the DJS is completed with practical exams that count toward the overall grade for the master's degree. These include producing a print magazine, multimedia online projects, and radio and TV reports. These exams take place in the respective training blocks and are supervised and graded by experienced journalists. The combination of academic examination at the IfKW and practical examination at the DJS ensures that both theoretical and practical skills are demonstrated.
Examination Regulations MA Journalism (PDF, 120 KB) (PO2006)
Supplement to the Examination Regulations MA Journalism (PDF, 28 KB) (2017)
Admission to the Master's program in Journalism is contingent upon passing a multi-stage selection process conducted by the German School of Journalism (DJS) in cooperation with the Institute for Communication Science and Media Research (IfKW). Applicants must have successfully completed a degree program lasting at least six semesters by September prior to the start of the program.
Important information
The program starts in the winter semester only. The exact selection procedure is described on the DJS website. International applicants will find additional information on requirements and procedures in the relevant information.
We would be happy to advise you on the content of the program or the course of study. The unique structure of the program makes it one-of-a-kind—you can find more information here and directly from the German School of Journalism (DJS).
The institute and all of its programs thrive on the people who work and conduct research here. In addition to our colleagues at the DJS, you will meet many other people here. Please feel free to stop by and take a look around.