Charles University

Overview

The Media and Area Studies (MARS) master’s programme at Charles University explores the intricate relationship between media, memory, and politics, and how these elements influence societal perceptions of places and regions. Located in the vibrant city of Prague, this interdisciplinary programme merges critical theory with practical research, equipping students for careers in public institutions, NGOs, and media-related organizations.

What you'll study

MARS is structured around an interdisciplinary dialogue that combines media studies with area studies, focusing primarily on Central and Eastern Europe and the European Union. The curriculum allows for exploration of additional European regions and broader debates through elective courses. Students will develop skills to analyze media texts, communication processes, and political narratives in relation to geography, historical memory, and social change.

• Core learning areas:
  • Czech Media System in European Comparison
  • Political Geography
  • Grand Debates of European Integration
• Media, politics, and conflict:
  • Communication and Politics
  • Media and Conflict in Europe
  • Political Systems of East Central European Countries
• Memory, culture, and meaning:
  • Theorizing Memory: Social and Cultural Remembering
• Electives and research:
  • Elective courses tailored to student interests
  • Research project or thesis work, culminating in a substantial written thesis or equivalent capstone

Upon completion, graduates possess advanced skills in critically analyzing media and political communication, underpinned by a strong foundation in regional studies and research training.

Entry requirements

There are no specific GRE, GMAT, or GPA grading score requirements for this programme, making it accessible to a diverse range of applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MARS programme are well-prepared for various career paths in public institutions, non-governmental organizations, and media-related fields. The combination of critical analysis skills and regional expertise positions them advantageously in the job market, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to discussions and initiatives related to media, politics, and cultural memory.