Applications have opened for the 2025 DW Akademie International Media Studies (IMS) Programme, a full-time, four-semester master’s degree designed to prepare students for careers in journalism, communications, and the media industry.

The application deadline is March 15, 2025.

The IMS Programme offers an intensive blend of academic research, lectures, and hands-on practical training, covering areas such as media and development, journalism, communication science, and media management.

Since its inception in 2009, more than 290 students from 74 countries have graduated from the programme.

It is jointly run by the University of Bonn, Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences, and DW Akademie, with an annual intake of up to 30 students.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, have at least one year of professional media experience after completing their first degree, and provide proof of advanced English language proficiency.

Highly qualified candidates from developing and emerging countries are eligible to apply for scholarships.

Successful scholarship recipients will complete a fourth-semester internship in their home countries.

Target Group

The programme is primarily designed for young professionals from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe, including:Journalists from radio, television, online, and print media.

Young journalists, especially those in electronic media.

Journalists and managers from community radio stations

Media managers and communications experts

NGO and development sector employees

Government ministry communications staff

Professionals working in development cooperation

Representatives of national broadcasters and media associations.

Further details and application information are available on the DW Akademie website.