BA in Journalismus und PR

The Journalism and PR program is aimed at practice-oriented applicants interested in working in a multi-media and creative field, especially in broadcasting, online publishing or in public relations.

The program offers a balanced mix of lectures, seminars, and practical editorial work. The compulsory modules of all the study areas teach basic competency in the media and political systems, statistics and media research, media ethics, media law, and basic design and production skills in the areas of writing and copywriting, photography, video technology, sound engineering, editing systems, management and format knowledge.

After completing the compulsory phase, you can choose between one of the following specialization areas: Presenting, Video Journalism, Online Journalism, and Public Relations. Your specialization is concluded with an extensive practical project, that is usually undertaken in collaboration with a renowned media partner.

The Specializations

Presenting

The specialization Presenting prepares students for the extensive professional scope as a tv or radio presenter. It includes acting in front of the camera and working with a microphone. You also learn to control your body, your voice, and your facial expressions and how to compose your scripts.

In addition to professional vocal coaching, you learn the professional standards of presenting for television in different contexts, such as announcements, live switching and talk shows. Your independent presentation and interviewing skills are enhanced by the development of your artistically independent and creative personality.

Students conceptualize and perform broadcasts as part of their extensive final television project. For this project, they collaborate with television journalism students.

Online Journalism

The specialization Online Journalism focuses on the language and the special text/ content requirements for online publications, such as websites. Besides the basic technical know-how, students will get a deeper understanding of the content-related aspects of online articles.

Students learn the different applications and combinations of programming techniques in the media production workflow required in this field. They are also exposed to the different applications of design tools and generate dynamically interactive content with web flash design tools. They will learn how to develop evaluation criteria for content management systems and independently develop application-oriented concepts.

In a comprehensive final online project, students of this specialization could, for example, independently design an e-magazine or their own youtube channel.

Television Journalism

In the specialization, Television Journalism students become familiar with camera technology as well as with the foundations and rules of image composition and montage. Professional recording equipment, editing suites, and a green screen studio are available for them to produce their contributions.

In addition, the specialization teaches the intricacies of editorial methods in terms of topic selection and the implementation of storytelling and contribution dramaturgy. Here we also focus on professional vocal coaching and the writing of so-called on- and off texts, the design of treatments, budgeting and time planning of all aspects of shoots - outside, on-site or in our studio.

The students independently implement a television broadcast for their extensive final project. For this, they collaborate with the students specializing in Presenting.

Public Relations

The specialization Public Relations expands on previously learned journalism skills and focuses on special technical knowledge for public relations.

The foundations include different theories, models, and perspectives on public relations that primarily explain the difference between marketing and advertising. Students get to know the economic, cultural and social aspects and framework conditions for PR work. Afterward, they get involved in the practical work of communication agencies and get to know specific PR strategies as well as the diverse application possibilities of different media. Writing press releases and other PR materials is just as important as investigating special situations and crisis communication.

In a practical final project, students develop a PR concept in cooperation with a real client and present this together with their complete planning process.

**DEKRA | Hochschule für Medien is a private university of applied sciences in the trendy Berlin Friedrichshain district, offering three Bachelor programs: Film and Television, Journalism and PR, and Communication Management. These degree programs are tailored to the modern media landscape, providing hands-on classes in the respective fields with teachers who are themselves media professionals. The university is open to creative, young people who are willing to show commitment and enjoy studying in a vibrant atmosphere - in the heart of Berlin!

The university is officially approved by the state of Berlin and accredited by the German Council of Science and Humanities (Wissenschaftsrat) . Within our Bachelor programs, we have a wide spectrum of specialization options, including media design, marketing communication, communication psychology, online journalism, video journalism, presenting, directing, cinematography, production, post-production and sound design. Graduates are equipped with hands-on knowledge for a perfect start of their professional lives.

The university is part of the DEKRA Academy Network, one of the largest private education providers in Germany.

Hands-on Training and a strong network

All courses at DEKRA | Hochschule für Medien follow the hands-on and business-oriented approach in teaching and training, where theory and practice are closely linked. We have designed our available course offering to be academically sound as well as practical. One of our ways of ensuring practice and lifelong learning is through collaboration with various partners: media companies, nonprofit and government organizations, and other educational institutions.

Intensive support and pleasant learning atmosphere

We combine this approach with a personal care concept that specifically addresses the individual strengths and needs of our students. An inviting teaching and learning environment is one of the special values of our university. Lectures take place in small study groups. Lecturers allow enough time for students’ questions and are also available out of class. This ensures intensive support and care from supervisors. In this context, the teachers act as catalysts, imparting their experience and expertise - both academic as well as professional - into the courses.

You are important to us – right from the start

The formal requirement for admission to a Bachelor program is a university entrance qualification ((such as Abitur or an international equivalent) or vocational training with several years of professional experience. There is no Numerus Clausus (NC - selection by grades). No portfolios, films, articles, etc need to be handed in before your application. And you don't need to do any internships before studying. However, a previous internship could help you when choosing your programme.

The most important requirements for success in your course are your own motivation and commitment. That's why we take into account both the formal requirements and detailed information from your personal interview. Study workshops and boot camps, events and personal study counseling are just a few of our regular offers for prospective students.

Your benefits at a glance

• Certified BA programmes at a well established private media school
• Excellent seminars by professors and teachers from the media industries
• Study projects with consistent practical relevance/ real-life projects
• Big network of partner companies and institutions within the media and creative industries
• Maximum individual encouragement and support through small study groups
• A creative and intimate study environment
• Equipment loan, also for private projects
• No extra fees - attractive funding options
• Free public transport "Semesterticket" included in your tuition fees
• Central location in the heart of Berlin with easy access to public transport

We are there for you - personally

Are you hesitating which programme might suit you? Would you like to know more about the application process or financing options? Our student advisory service will gladly help you.

The best insight is gained directly on site. Therefore, we warmly invite prospective students to attend our events at the university or to come by and try out some classes.