Utrecht University

Overview

The MSc in New Media and Digital Culture at Utrecht University delves into the impact of modern platforms, data, games, mobile connectivity, and algorithmic systems on contemporary life. This program combines critical media theory with practical research training, including a research internship and a thesis, equipping you with the skills to analyze and contribute to the evolving digital landscape.

• Degree: MSc
• Duration: 12 months (full-time)
• Credits: 60 ECTS
• Delivery: On-campus (Utrecht University)
• Language of instruction: English
• Programme focus: New media technologies and their cultural and societal implications
• Research components: Research internship and thesis
• Accreditation: NVAO-accredited
• Application: For the latest information on application procedures and requirements, please refer to the university's official website.

What you'll study

This master's program is structured around research-led learning. Core courses provide essential theoretical and methodological foundations, leading into a research internship and the completion of a thesis. Students may select from various profile trajectories, such as Media, Data, and Society, allowing for a more specialized academic focus.

Core courses (examples)

• Research Lab: Situating Research
• Research Lab: Designing Research
• New Media Theories: Thinkers, Debates, and Questions
• The Ludification of Culture
• The Datafied Society: Networks, Software, and Politics
• Urban Mobile Media: the Myth and Messiness of Connectivity

Profile trajectories (optional)

Choosing a profile trajectory allows you to follow a curated set of courses that align with your interests, typically including a profile-related internship and a thesis focused on your chosen area of study.

Research internship and thesis

• Research internship: A supervised placement or project that offers practical experience in the field.
• Thesis: An academic research project that investigates a topic related to your internship experience and research question.

Entry requirements

To be considered for the Master’s programme in New Media & Digital Culture, applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university (or the international equivalent) and demonstrate the following competencies:

• Media and cultural reflection: Ability to analyze and critique the role of media in contemporary culture and everyday practices, typically assessed through a motivation letter and essay.
• Media and Cultural Studies background: Completion of at least 15 ECTS in advanced-level courses related to Media and Cultural Studies (or equivalent).
• Research methods: Familiarity with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods pertinent to the Humanities and/or Social Sciences, along with knowledge of key concepts in Media and Cultural Studies, usually demonstrated through at least 7.5 ECTS of relevant coursework at the Bachelor’s level (or equivalent).

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc in New Media and Digital Culture are well-prepared for a variety of careers in academia, media, technology, and cultural institutions. Potential career paths include roles in digital marketing, media analysis, research, content creation, and policy development related to digital culture and communication.