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Study Media Research in Europe

Media Research programs in Europe train students in the theoretical frameworks and empirical methods used to study media systems, audiences, and communication processes.

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Media Research programs in Europe from 1 universities · updated for 2026
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This is distinct from production-focused programs: students analyze media rather than make it. Core content typically spans media effects research, political communication and journalism studies, audience and reception analysis, and the political economy of media industries. Both quantitative methods (content analysis, surveys, computational methods for large datasets) and qualitative methods (discourse analysis, focus groups, ethnographic audience research) are taught. The degree is appropriate for students planning academic careers or research roles in media regulation, public broadcasting, or platform governance.

What You Actually Study

Core areas within Media Research

Media effects and audience research: framing, agenda-setting, and reception studies
Political communication: news media, political advertising, and misinformation
Media industry analysis: political economy, ownership structures, and public service media
Digital and platform research: algorithmic curation, social media data, and computational methods

Where It Leads

Career paths for Media Research graduates

Media researcher at a public broadcasting organization, media regulator, or research institute

Academic researcher or PhD candidate in communication and media studies

Policy analyst at a media regulation authority (e.g., Ofcom-equivalent national regulators) or EU digital policy body

Programs Covering Media Research

Programs with strong content in this specialization, from verified European sources

Multimedia Communications and Publishing

Bern University of Applied Sciences Zollikofen, Switzerland

Master's English 1,5 years
EU: €1,020 Per semester Non-EU: €1,020
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Multimedia Communications and Publishing Bern University of Applied Sciences

This master's program combines in-depth editorial practice with theoretical and applied modules in media, communication, journalism, and digital storytelling. Students specialize in either Political Communications or Critical and Constructive Journalism, working collaboratively in editorial teams over two semesters. These teams simulate real professional environments—either within NGOs or journalistic outlets—allowing students to rotate through roles and develop critical thinking, negotiation, and production skills. Editorial activities are guided by academic coaches and reinforced through lectures and industry engagement.

The curriculum also covers leadership, psychology in communication, data science, content management systems, and the economics of media. Students explore the influence of public relations, experiment with digital storytelling, and examine current media research paradigms through two detailed research modules. Additionally, students enhance practical skills via electives in audio/video, podcasting, photography, and postproduction, and can attend partner institutions or online programs to tailor their learning. The program concludes with a master’s thesis, supporting individualized academic inquiry in multimedia communication and publishing.
To be admitted to this master's program, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in a communication-related field such as audio, film, design, language, or interactive media. A high level of German proficiency (at least C1) is required. Candidates must also demonstrate expertise in at least one media-related discipline—such as visual, audio, or digital technologies—and interdisciplinary skills in multimedia. Previous work experience in journalism, communication, marketing, or the creative industries, especially within agencies, companies, or public organizations, is advantageous.

Admission includes a mandatory aptitude assessment. Applicants must submit a portfolio that showcases their academic or professional strengths and propose a topic for in-depth study. A jury evaluates the submissions and selects candidates for interviews. Those without formal qualifications may still be eligible through portfolio admission if they can provide strong evidence of relevant experience and skills.
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