Above: Our lecturer, Steffen Moestrup from the Danish School of Media and Journalism, teaching one of the first days in Aarhus (credits: Dicte Sønnichsen).
While the study systems at the degree-awarding universities within the Mundus Journalism programme are aligned—thanks to the use of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS)— you will still encounter different academic environments and cultures throughout the programme. The ECTS is a standard across the European Union, designed to make it easier for students to transfer credits between countries and institutions. This system ensures that the academic workload is comparable across universities, making degrees more recognisable and facilitating student mobility within Europe.
Each ECTS credit represents a specific number of study hours for a full-time student. Typically, an academic year consists of 60 ECTS credits, which translates into approximately 1,500–1,800 hours of study. All degree-awarding universities in the Mundus Journalism programme use ECTS to measure courses. Upon completing the degree, you will have studied a total of 120 ECTS credits.
However, study cultures vary, even within European universities. By joining the Mundus Journalism programme, you will experience academic life in at least two distinct study cultures. Since learning environments differ between countries and institutions, adapting to these differences is a vital part of the Mundus experience.
Click on any of the boxes below to explore the classroom culture, study methods, group work, and workload at each university, ensuring you are well-prepared for success at every stage:
During your first year in Aarhus, you will study at two institutions: Aarhus University and the Danish School of Media and Journalism (DMJX). While Aarhus University focuses more on academic theory and DMJX takes a more practical approach, the study cultures at both are quite similar. However, you may notice that the way things are done at both institutions might differ from what you are used to in your home country. It might be new for you that the Danish educational system often has a very informal relationship between students and teachers. The environment in class and the amount of group work may also differ from what you expect or are used to. Below we have tried to give you an idea about what to expect. If you want to learn more, please visit AU Studypedia.
Classroom culture
The study culture in Denmark is informal, and the hierarchy between staff and students is flat. There is no dress code and staff dress quite informally. Questions are welcomed and actively encouraged to enhance your learning experience. Rather than Ms., Mrs., Mr., Dr. or Professor, the lecturers will ask you to call them by their first name. Professors and other staff members will chat informally and socialise during breaks.
However, even though the classroom culture might come across as laidback, punctuality and keeping deadlines are very important. You are expected to keep your deadlines and show up on time. It is seen as rude if you enter the classroom after the lecture or seminar has started, as it disturbs the workflow of both your peers and the lecturer.
Study methods
In Denmark, students are expected to take responsibility for their own learning. Furthermore, Danish higher education holds a rather analytical approach, which means that students are not only expected to reproduce knowledge but also to analyze, compare and evaluate individually. Your lecturers will discuss this with you more detail.
Study groups
Study groups are seen as an essential part of your courses at both Aarhus University and DMJX. A study group typically consists of 3-5 students who all meet and prepare for classes, discuss assignments, or prepare oral presentations. Being part of a study group offers both academic and social benefits. Within the first week’s program, you will be asked to develop your group’s code of work-ethics/group manifesto.
Workload
At the master's level, you should expect to dedicate approximately 45 hours per week to your studies. This includes a variety of academic activities, such as lectures, seminars, Teaching Assistant (TA) classes, coaching and supervision, study group work, and individual preparation. At Aarhus University, teaching can be scheduled between 8:00 and 18:00 on weekdays, so time management and flexibility are key to balancing these commitments. Keep in mind that the workload can vary across courses, and independent study and group work plays a significant role in your success.
If you choose to study "Politics and Communication", you will spend your second year of studies at the University of Amsterdam. The Dutch education system fosters an open, egalitarian environment where students are encouraged to take an active role in their learning. Key aspects of this culture include a student-centered approach, a strong emphasis on collaboration between students, and a distinctly international perspective.
Autonomy and group work are highly valued, alongside a strong focus on research. Dutch universities, particularly the University of Amsterdam (UvA), are globally recognised for their significant contributions to scientific research. If you would like to know more about the University of Amsterdam, please visit UvA.nl.
Classroom Culture
At the University of Amsterdam, we utilise a teaching format that blends lectures with tutorial and seminar groups. Professors present an overview of the material during lectures, while the tutorials allow for a more in-depth exploration of the theories and concepts discussed. In these seminar sessions, students engage in discussions about the theories covered earlier in the week. To foster a deeper understanding, on-campus attendance at both the lectures and tutorials is required. All classes and thesis advising take place on campus, so students are expected to be in Amsterdam for the entire academic year.
Study Methods
Students must not only grasp the theories and concepts discussed in class but also demonstrate their ability to apply them. This application of acquired knowledge is trained and evaluated through a variety of formats, including group work, individual written assignments, presentations, and exams. Furthermore, research skills will be developed and assessed through the completion of an empirical thesis.
Study Groups
Study Groups play a vital role, fostering collaboration and enhancing the learning experience. These groups consist of small teams of students who work together to discuss course materials, share insights, and tackle assignments. This collaborative environment encourages diverse perspectives and critical thinking, helping students deepen their understanding of complex concepts in journalism and communication.
Workload
All programmes at the Graduate School of Communication are full-time by default, requiring students to dedicate 40 hours per week to their studies. These hours include attending lectures and tutorials, self-study, completing assignments, and preparing for exams.
If you choose to study “Totalitarianism & Transition” in your second year, you will be studying at Charles University in Prague. The programme blends the rich tradition of Czech academic rigor with contemporary media and journalism practices. The study culture is quite formal. Students generally address the professors by their academic titles. Most professors and lecturers have official consultation hours during which they are available in their offices to welcome students for discussions about their studies. Outside of these designated hours, students are encouraged to reach out via email to arrange individual meetings.
Classroom Culture
Active participation is highly valued, especially in seminars where class discussions are crucial to the learning experience. You will notice that questions, constructive debate, and student contributions are highly encouraged to foster a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Czech academic culture is often rooted in tradition, which can be reflected in the lecture format. Lectures are typically structured and focused on theoretical insights, although practical skills are also integrated into journalism studies. Do not be surprised if professors expect you to engage with the material independently and come prepared to discuss key concepts critically.
Study Methods
At Charles University, the study methods integrate independent study with classroom learning and a practical approach in the media studios. Hence, courses are typically divided into three different types: Lectures provide a theoretical framework, with professors and lecturers leading the class and encouraging critical discussion. On the other hand, seminars expect students to engage with the material and participate in critical reflections actively. Practical sessions offer hands-on experience. Professors and lecturers usually do not monitor attendance during lectures; however, full attendance is expected in seminars and practical sessions.
The study experience at Czech universities is characterized by a high degree of independence. Students bear the primary responsibility for their approach to learning, and we value individuality, encouraging them to plan their educational journey effectively. At the same time, students are expected to be aware of deadlines throughout the academic year and take the initiative in finding all necessary information independently. While flexibility is valued, it is essential to meet deadlines and fulfill academic obligations on time, as these requirements are non-negotiable.
When working on their MA thesis, each student collaborates with a supervisor. The role of the supervisors is to provide academic guidelines, engage in critical discussions, and offer feedback. However, supervisors often manage multiple students simultaneously, leading to a high workload. This increased responsibility can impact the amount of time and attention they can dedicate to each student, making it essential for students to be proactive in seeking support and communication.
Study Groups
As a journalism student, you will collaborate on multimedia or reporting assignments, where teamwork becomes crucial. The department emphasizes peer interaction, preparing students for the real-world collaborative nature of journalistic work. Group discussions and teamwork are essential, mainly when working on media production or investigative reporting.
Workload
The workload in the Journalism Department at Charles University is quite intensive, particularly regarding reading and independent research. At the master’s level, you can expect to devote 40-50 hours per week to your studies. This time will be divided between attending lectures, participating in seminars, working on independent projects, and preparing for exams.
If you choose to study “Crises & Conflict”, you will spend your second year at City St George’s, University of London in the United Kingdom. The study culture in the UK will be a bit different from what you have experienced in your first of studies in Aarhus. Below, we have outlined some key aspects to help you get a sense of what to expect.
Classroom Culture
At City, particularly in the Journalism Department, you may find that the teaching environment is a blend of formality and practical engagement. While there is respect for the academic hierarchy, the relationship between staff and students is relatively approachable. You might find that lecturers and professors are open to informal conversations and are very approachable during office hours or after class. Formal titles like Dr. or Professor may still be used, but interactions are relaxed and encourage participation.
Journalism is a practical field, and your classes will reflect this with plenty of hands-on work in newsrooms, TV studios, and radio stations. There is a strong emphasis on media ethics and accuracy, but at the same time, creativity and journalistic flair are highly valued. Punctuality and preparation are expected, as journalism courses are structured around tight deadlines—mirroring the real-world industry.
Study Methods
Studying journalism at City requires a proactive and independent approach. Much like in Denmark, you will be expected to think critically, analyze complex issues, and evaluate different perspectives rather than simply memorizing facts. You are responsible for actively participating in discussions and contributing your insights, as journalism is about engagement with current events and society.
A unique aspect of studying journalism at City is the focus on practical assignments. You will regularly work on producing stories, whether in written, broadcast, or digital formats. Feedback from these assignments is integral to your learning process. Lecturers will discuss expectations and methods with you at the start of your course, ensuring you are prepared to meet the demands of both theoretical and practical elements.
Study Groups
Group work is a valuable part of journalism education at City. From brainstorming ideas for a feature story to collaborating on multimedia projects, teamwork is an essential skill. You will likely be involved in various study groups or collaborative assignments that mimic the newsroom environment, where cooperation and quick decision-making are key. Study groups also help you expand your professional network, which can be vital for future career opportunities in journalism.
Workload
As a master’s student in journalism, you should expect a demanding workload. Journalism is a fast-paced field, and your coursework will reflect that with deadlines for articles, broadcast pieces, and multimedia projects. In total, you should prepare to dedicate around 40-50 hours per week to your studies. This time includes lectures, practical sessions in the newsroom or studio, group work, and individual study. Time management is crucial, as juggling deadlines and research will be a regular part of your academic life, just as it would be in a professional newsroom.
If you choose to study “Cultures & Contexts” in your second year of studies, you will spend your second year at LMU Munich in Germany. While Germany is often associated with formality, its academic culture is deeply rooted in the humanistic traditions of great thinkers who have shaped the world. At LMU Munich, you will find an open, intellectually stimulating environment where curiosity, independent thinking, and critical analysis are not only encouraged, but essential to the learning process.
Classroom Culture
At the LMU's Department of Communication (IfKW), we view our master's students as research colleagues from day one. The learning environment tends to be both collegial and inspiring.
Munich is one of the leading research institutions in Europe, and we spread this spirit in every single seminar. Each of our classes is individually prepared on current issues of journalism in science and society. Together with our students, we strive to create new knowledge that will be presented at international communication conferences or in journal articles and that will be relevant to public and intellectual discourse.
Compared to your experience in Denmark, you may notice that interactions between students and lecturers at LMU are quite informal, whereas dealings with the administrative offices tend to be more formal.
Study Methods
At LMU, students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning. The study approach combines lectures, seminars, and independent research, with a strong emphasis on theoretical grounding. In Munich, classes focus on empirical projects using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
You are expected to engage deeply with course material, often through extensive reading and preparation for seminars. Assessments emphasise not just knowledge reproduction but also to analyse, compare and evaluate individually.
Study Groups
While independent work is a cornerstone of LMU's study culture, collaborative learning through study groups is also important. These groups provide students with the opportunity to discuss complex theories, prepare for exams, or work on joint projects.
Workload
The workload at LMU can be demanding, particularly at the master’s level, where you should expect to spend around 40 to 50 hours per week on your studies. This includes attending lectures, participating in seminars, working on group projects, and completing individual research and assignments. At LMU, you will have four regular seminars per week. In addition, you will have one blocked seminar.