Introduction

Journalism is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Developments in technology, politics and society are increasingly putting the media industries and the profession of journalism at the centre of people’s attempt to make sense of what is happening in the world around them.  The Erasmus Mundus Masters degree explores the practice and performance of journalism and the media in the context of a new environment brought about by globalisation, modernisation, commercialisation and professional developments.  The scheme offers a unique educational experience:  You will study in two European countries.  You will be able to specialise in one of four distinct areas of journalism: war and conflict, business and finance, media & politics, or comparative and transcultural journalism.  You will be part of a group of 50 students selected from a pool of candidates from around the world.  You will be part of a network of classmates that draw on a variety of experience and knowledge and meet the global ambitions of the degree. The Erasmus Mundus Masters Journalism and Media seeks to produce alumni who will shape the future of global journalism.


The degree scheme brings together five leading European institutions in the journalism and media education, combining the best academic research and teaching from the different national educational cultures. The program aims to prepare students for the challenge of working in the new global information society.  Globalisation is penetrating cultural and social borders around the world and simultaneously reinvigorating smaller regions and feelings of local identity. Political and social power is taking on new dimensions. Cultural awareness is growing. Journalism is at the centre of these changes.

• Politically, states in Europe are coming together and falling apart at the same time. Journalists need new tools to understand and to interpret the processes of integration and disintegration.
• Economically, a global world market is creating growth and havoc at the same time. Journalists need tools to be able to describe it in clear language.
• Socially, people are getting connected in new ways through modern technologies.  Journalism is the crucial field in a network society.
• Culturally, there is increasing onus on the media and journalism to explain differences and similarities between peoples and societies.