Why Study Communication Science and Media Research?
Communication and media have a profound impact on human coexistence. Studying communication science and media research provides you with social science theories that help explain human behavior and societal developments in a digitalized media world. The program explores how communication and media evolve in digital societies – focusing on journalism, public relations, marketing and advertising across television, print media, the internet and social media.
Is communication science the right subject for me?
A strong interest in communication and media – their production, use and influence on society – is essential for studying communication science. You should also enjoy reading academic texts and be curious about social phenomena and how to investigate them empirically.
We approach communication science as a social science. Key research methods include both qualitative approaches (such as interviews) and quantitative ones (such as surveys). Statistical analysis plays a crucial role in interpreting the data collected.
Still wondering whether communication science is the right fit for you? Are your expectations realistic?
Take our self-assessment test to find out!
What study programs are available in communication science?
We offer a range of Bachelor’s and Master’s programs:
Bachelor’s Major in Communication Science and Media Research
Bachelor’s Minor in Communication Science and Media Research
Master’s Major in Communication Science and Media Research
Master’s Minor in Communication Science and Media Research
Master’s Major in Political Communication & Governance
Master’s Major in Strategic Communication & Management
Master’s Mono in Internet & Society
Master’s Major in Didactics of Media and Computer Science
Master’s Minor in Social Sciences
Master’s Minor in Methods–Data–Society
Details on each study program can be found on the page Study Programs at IKMZ.
You can combine our major or minor programs with a variety of programs at UZH. For guidance on choosing your degree program, the Student Advisory Services is your first point of contact.
What career prospects do I have?
Studying communication science — and then...?
This is a question many prospective and current students ask. Our degree programs do not lead to a single career path; instead, they equip you with in-demand expertise and interdisciplinary skills relevant to a wide variety of professions. IKMZ is one of the largest and most prestigious departments for communication science in Europe and consistently ranks among the top in international university rankings. Our teaching emphasizes high didactic quality and academic excellence. Curious about where a communication science degree can take you?
Download our Career Prospects Brochure (PDF, 6 MB) and read about the career journeys of 12 graduates and their experiences after graduation.
Need help planning your professional future? Take advantage of the comprehensive range of services offered by UZH Career Services for career guidance and support.
How Is the study program organized?
Degree programs at the University of Zurich are organized according to the two-tier Bologna system:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Typically completed in 3 years (full-time)
- Master’s Degree: Typically completed in 2 years (full-time)
Degree programs at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences are structured as follows:
- Bachelor’s Program (180 ECTS credits): Major 120 ECTS + Minor 60 ECTS
- Master’s Program (120 ECTS credits): Major 90 ECTS + Minor: 30 ECTS OR Mono Program 120 ECTS
Graduates of the major and mono programs earn the degree Bachelor or Master of Arts in Social Sciences.
Can I get a taste of studying communication science?
Yes! We’ve compiled excerpts from our lectures to give you a first-hand impression of what studying communication science and media research is like.
Watch our taster video for prospective students and get a feel for the topics, teaching style, and learning environment.
We recommend that you attend the Study Information Days!
