Digital Media and Communication for Social Impact

Aimed at shaping media and communication in the public interest, this Master empowers you to drive social impact. Join us to transform the public sphere

  ECTS Credits  90

  Start of Studies  Autumn / Spring

  Duration  3–4 semesters

  Course Languages  EN-DE-FR

  Bilingual Option  yes 

  Option bilingue  yes 

Programme Highlights

In this programme, you acquire a sound understanding of how media, platforms and AI function in a digital society and how they can be designed to foster a free, fair and democratic society. You learn how communication can have social impact and contribute to the common good – from digital journalism to strategic communication all the way to media governance.

Learn to ask the right questions, to reflect critically on digital media and communication, to use them effectively and to develop solutions for challenges in a digitalised society!


 Study Plan

Assessments ECTS
Modules
Research Competencies 6
2 exercises on working with data and their visualisation  
Project Management and Transfer 6
2 practical courses on managing and communicating research projects  
Core Topics 18

6 lectures on digital journalism, strategic communication,

mobilisation, democracy, governance, media effects

 
Project Seminars 27
3 project seminars with related project reports  
Personalised Choice in  min. 9
Lectures  
Seminars  
Courses  
Internship of 3 or 6 ECTS  
Lectures / practical courses from BA programmes in Communication  
Total Coursework 66
Master Thesis 24
TOTAL minimum  90

Further Info

Unique teaching and learning formats:

In our project seminars, you work in a critical and solution-oriented fashion in small teams on projects of practical relevance. Moreover, we offer individual mentoring and practical courses on multidisciplinary skills.

 

Add a Minor!

For broader horizons, add a 30 ECTS Minor to reach a 120 ECTS Master’s degree, if you meet the Minor's admission requirements.

Downloads

Study Plan Cours and TimetablesBrochure Regulation on the award of the Master


 Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor degree with at least 60 ECTS in Communication and/or Media Studies from a Swiss University: usually no requirements, direct admission (methodological and statistical training required).
  • Bachelor degree in Communication from a Swiss University of Applied Sciences (FH/HES): admission with the requirement of catch-up Bachelor coursework (up to 42 ECTS) in French or German.
  • Other academic backgrounds: individual assessment determines whether an admission is possible and catch-up Bachelor coursework in French or German is required. Admission for foreign degrees is not automatic.
  • Diplomas older than 8 years are generally not accepted.

 

Apply via MyUnifr if already enrolled at Unifr.


 Language of study

Three languages, one distinctive asset: study in English, or also choose assessments in German and French. Tailor your path and earn a bilingual English/German or trilingual English/German/French mention on your degree to stand out in the global job market.


 Mobility

Benefit from the exceptional opportunity to shape your Master and strengthen your academic journey by spending a semester abroad. Experience new cultures, expand your international network, and boost your CV with credits obtained abroad.
Recommended from the 2nd semester onwards
Mobility mention on the degree from 30 validated ECTS abroad


 Career Opportunities

With this Master, you are equipped with essential specialist knowledge plus analytical, creative and organisational skills. You communicate your insights to stakeholders in politics, media, business and civil society and you are prepared for impactful roles in the media and communications industry, digital agencies, NGOs, foundations, administration, as well as for research and teaching.


 Testimonials

The Master’s programme Digital Media and Communication for Social Impact is truly in tune with the times. It offers an interactive and practical approach to current topics such as artificial intelligence, algorithms and digital platforms and their impact on politics and society. Linda Mürset
While my Bachelor’s degree at the University of Applied Sciences focused on the content and form of communication, this Master allows me to grasp the rich theoretical foundations behind it. The new programme creates an ideal link between hands on communication and rigorous academic analysis. Basil Schnellmann
The Master’s programme Digital Media and Communication for Social Impact teaches me how digital media and technological developments drive social change, and just how essential digital media literacy is. The combination of theory, practice oriented seminars, creative project work in small groups and committed professors creates an ideal learning environment. Shana Sägesser


 Academic Advising - Information

Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences
Bd de Pérolles 90
CH-1700 Fribourg
  +41 (0) 26 300 82 00
 decanat-ses@unifr.ch