International Media Studies – Master’s with Thesis
The International Media Studies (English-taught) Master’s with Thesis program at Istanbul University offers advanced graduate-level education in media studies, communication, digital media, journalism, and global media analysis. The program is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of media theory, cross-cultural communication, media ethics, global media systems, and media research methodologies. Through coursework, seminars, and a thesis project, students gain strong analytical, critical thinking, and research skills, preparing them for careers in media, journalism, academia, communication, or international media organizations.
Located in Istanbul — a global city bridging cultures, histories, and media traditions — the program provides a multicultural academic environment and exposure to both local and global media landscapes. Taught in English, the curriculum equips students to engage with international media trends, comparative media research, and global communication challenges, making it a compelling choice for those aiming for an internationally oriented media career or academic path.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.) / Master of Social Sciences in International Media Studies
- Standard period of study: 2 years (4 semesters)
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Graduate (part-time / second-education, English-taught)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Media Studies, Communication, Journalism, Digital Media, Global Media Systems, Media Research
- Admission modus: Graduate admission / second-education application process
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Media & Communication Theory
- Introduction to Media Studies & Communication Theory
- History of Media & Global Media Systems
- Research Methods in Social Sciences / Media Research Methods
- Media Ethics, Law & Policy
- Elective or supporting course (e.g. media tools, language, culture)
Semester 2 – Advanced Media Theory & Contemporary Media
- Digital Media & New Media Systems
- Global Journalism & International Media Practices
- Media, Society & Culture / Media Sociology
- Media Analysis & Critical Studies
- Elective or specialization course
Semester 3 – Specialization & Thesis Proposal Preparation
- Seminar on Contemporary Media Issues / Global Media Trends
- Thesis Proposal Development / Literature Review / Methodology Design
- Electives (e.g. media production, media policy, comparative media, media and politics)
- Research planning / preparatory studies
Semester 4 – Thesis Research & Graduation
- Media Studies Thesis Research & Writing
- Data Collection & Analysis (qualitative or quantitative)
- Thesis Defense / Presentation
- Optional Elective or Professional Course
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for roles in journalism, media production, digital media management, public relations, international media organizations, media research, communication consultancy, content creation, media policy analysis, academia, or further post-graduate studies (PhD) in media & communication, journalism, or related fields. Their strong theoretical and research-based training, combined with international perspective, makes them suitable for careers both in Turkey and globally.
Why Choose This Program
The program’s interdisciplinary structure — covering media theory, digital media, journalism, communication, sociology, and global media studies — gives students the flexibility to tailor their academic focus to their career goals or research interests.
With Istanbul’s cultural diversity, dynamic media environment, and the program’s academic depth, students gain the skills and perspective needed to work in international media, research, journalism, digital content, or communication industries. This makes the program ideal for those who want to shape their careers in media, communication, and global information sectors.
Contact Information
Istanbul University – Department of International Media Studies
Faculty of Communications / Social Sciences, Istanbul University
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: mediala@istanbul.edu.tr
Graduate Student Affairs Office – Faculty of Communications
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: graduateoffice@communications.istanbul.edu.tr
International Office – Istanbul University
Beyazıt Campus
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: international@istanbul.edu.tr
