Distance Learning in Journalism: Target Audience, Requirements and Suitability

The Journalism distance learning programme (B.A.) at IU International University is aimed at all those who want to acquire practical and flexible journalistic skills – regardless of location or fixed attendance times. You are in the right place if you are pursuing a career as an editor, reporter, presenter, correspondent or content creator in print, online or broadcasting editorial offices and want to master cross-media reporting with confidence. It is especially aimed at prospective students who value modern digital working methods, independent work and the security of a recognised academic degree. The programme is suitable both for school graduates who want to begin their first degree in journalism and for professionals from communication or media professions who want to further qualify themselves.

Admission Requirements

• University entrance qualification:
  • General university entrance qualification (Abitur)
  • University of applied sciences entrance qualification (Fachabitur; school and practical part)
  • Subject-specific university entrance qualification (content fit for journalism will be checked if necessary during the trial study period)
• Possible without Abitur if one of the following requirements is met:
  • Successfully completed advanced training (e.g. master craftsman certificate, state-certified business administrator, IHK specialist)
  • Completed, recognised vocational training of at least 2 years and subsequent relevant professional experience of at least 2 years (for non-relevant training/professional experience: entry into the trial study period necessary)
• Applicants with international educational qualifications:
  • Recognition or equivalence check by the university (according to Anabin)
• German language skills (for international applicants):
  • Proof of German language skills at least at level B2 (e.g. TestDaF, DSH1, telc German B2, ÖSD B2)
  • Proof must be provided at the start of studies and is usually not older than five years

A Numerus Clausus (NC) is not required. Applications and course start are possible at any time. A non-binding trial month is included as standard.

Personal Requirements

• Good written and oral expression skills: You should enjoy precise, clear writing as well as communicating.
• Interest in current social, political and cultural issues: Independence in research, observational skills and curiosity are central for aspiring journalists.
• Digital affinity & media understanding: Since the distance learning and journalistic work rely on digital tools, content management systems and multimedia applications, secure basic knowledge of handling computers, the internet and media is helpful.
• Self-motivation and self-organisation: For the flexible, location-independent online studies, a high degree of self-discipline, time management and responsible working is required.
• Critical thinking and ethical awareness: Conscious engagement with media ethics, fact-checking and responsible reporting is among the key qualifications in journalism.

In summary: IU directs its journalism distance learning programme at curious, media-savvy people with strong communication skills, digital openness and the desire for maximum flexibility in their own learning path. The study model is ideal for anyone who wants to combine work, family and further education flexibly – all without admission hurdles such as a Numerus Clausus.

Course Content and Focus Areas in the Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism (IU)

In the distance learning Journalism programme at IU International University, you will acquire the comprehensive skills needed for a professional career in modern journalism. The bachelor’s programme imparts solid knowledge from the fields of media and communication studies, media production, journalistic practice, and digital technologies. Of particular note is the consistent focus on cross-media content and current industry trends – based on the standards of the German Journalists Association (DJV).

• Overview of Topics:
  • Introduction to media and communication sciences
  • Typography: Discovering fonts
  • Media processes: Research and conception
  • Basics of audiovisual media
  • Print production and print media project
  • Storytelling, media psychology and media economics
  • Market research, media law and media ethics
  • Digital editorial management
  • Content management systems (CMS)
  • Mobile media and current trends in journalism
  • Augmented, mixed and virtual reality
• Practical Orientation:
  • Numerous project modules, such as Project: Writing workshop, Social media journalism, Media processes: Realisation and production, Project: Audiovisual media, Project: Online and cross-media journalism
  • From the fourth semester onwards, building a personal online portfolio to present your own projects
• Elective Areas:
  • You choose three specialisations from topics such as editorial lab, social media marketing I, TV and web hosting, corporate communication and PR, sports media management, online and social media marketing, and more.
• Digital Skills and AI:
  • “Digital Skills” and the optional
    module “AI in Journalism” impart relevant competencies for the use of new technologies and artificial intelligence.

Upon successful completion of the modules, you will earn a total of 180 ECTS credits, which are internationally recognised.