Media, Democracy and Human Rights, Master Programme

120 credits

Are you interested in analysing media’s role in society? Do you want to influence media development in line with democratic principles and human rights? This master’s programme enables you to become an active agent in media development in an international context.

The programme focuses on leadership, democracy, and human rights. It aims to prepare you as tomorrow’s researcher, social narrator, or decision-maker to be able to contribute responsibly and insightfully to the development and regulation of the media landscape. A developement based on democratic ideals and principles, regardless of nationality and geographical considerations.

During the programme you will get a deeper understanding of the increasingly important role and growing impact of the media as regards public service announcements, political communication, cultural expression, and social mobilisation. As a student you are provided with a theoretical understanding, analytical tools, and strategic competence. This enables you to not only understand, but to become an active agent in, media development that affects democracy, human rights, and regulation of the media in an international context.

The programme is highly international, with case studies and course reading material taken from a broad international context. We welcome students from all over the world.

The program is offered online (distance learning) and on campus simultaneously. The teaching and course-work is integrated according to the Glocal-classroom model, so that students who participate online and students in the classroom on campus are taught together, and follow the same schedule. If you want to apply for the distance learning version, please use the application code: LNU-F2702. If you want to apply for the campus version, please use the application code: LNU-F2701.

Autumn 2025

Full-time, Distance learning

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Education also available as

Kalmar, Full-time, Campus

Master’s level Syllabus Full-time, Distance learning English 01 Sep, 2025 - 06 Jun, 2027 January 15 Some courses and programmes will accept late applications. LNU-F2702

General entry requirements for studies at the second-cycle level and specific entry requirements 1–90 credits, of which at least 15 credits are for an independent project in media and communications, journalism, political science, or a similar subject. English 6 or the equivalent.

Individual Assessment

55,000 SEK 231,200 SEK

Faculty of Arts and Humanities

Career

After graduation you have several options for your career. The programme is a great preparation for PhD studies. You can also work with:

• management and development services in the media industry

• policies and analysis in national and international political and non-profit organisations, or in companies and public authorities

• journalism

• media development and media strategies in the private and public sectors

• information and communication

• teaching at different levels.

Degree

Degree of Master of Science with Specialisation in Media, Democracy and Human Rights, main field of study: Media and Communication

Admission Process

You have two options to apply:

1. With letter of intent, and grades.

2. With grades only.

Please note that admission to the programme is based on an alternative selection criterion.

Of these selected criteria, the letter of intent will be weighed highest.

Application Process

The application process consists of two steps.

First you need to apply to the programme online at www.universityadmissions.se - Deadline 15 January 2025.
Secondly, you need to submit a letter of intent - Deadline 1 February 2025, Submit your letter on your pages on www.universityadmissions.se

Letter of intent

Please write a letter of intent that describes your interest in the programme by answering the following questions:

Describe your previous experiences you think is of relevance to the program.
Explain your goals with attending the programme in relation to:
1. What you want to learn and why?
2. What you hope to do in your career and how this education will help you achieve that?
3. Your personal development or interest in the subject matter.

Also provide the following information:

Your full name.
Application number for identification (if application number is unknown, please provide date of birth instead).
Name of University at which you have studied for your BSc/BA degree.
In which country have you studied for your undergraduate degree.

The completed document must not exceed two pages in total.

This programme is both life-changing and world-changing

With 18 years of experience in media, democracy, and human rights, Tamar was looking for a master’s programme that could connect everything she had done – and open new doors. At Linnaeus University, she found not only knowledge, but also a sense of community, opportunity, and hope.

Read the full interview

Tamar comes from Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia – a place rich in history, culture, and mountainous landscapes. When she came across the master’s programme in media, democracy and human rights at Linnaeus University, she knew it was something special.

“I was so happy when I found it! It’s not easy to find an interdisciplinary programme that covers all the areas I’ve worked in. This programme matched both my experience and my dreams for the future,” says Tamar.

She has worked as a journalist, project manager, and in the field of human rights for nearly two decades. With a scholarship from the Swedish Institute, she moved to Kalmar to take the next step in her career – and in life.

“Linnaeus University offers a strong programme that combines theory and practice. The course coordinators have been accessible, and the teaching has given me new perspectives,” she says.

Tamar also highlights the vibrant student life as an unexpected bonus.

“Despite my long professional background, I’ve felt included. I’ve been a student ambassador, served on the board of the Linnaeus Union, taken part in EUniWell activities, and organised everything from mandala painting to speed-friending. There’s something for everyone!”

Her programme studies have also been important on a personal level. As democracy has deteriorated in her home country, Kalmar has become a safe place.

“The university has helped me focus and find light in the darkness. There is a sense of community and hope here.”

Tamar is now planning for the future – perhaps in academia, perhaps in media or civil society. She feels well equipped to make a difference.

“This programme gives us the tools to understand and influence the world. At a time when freedom of expression and democratic values are under threat globally, we need more people who are willing to stand up for them.”

For Tamar, it’s clear why more people should consider studying the programme:

“It’s a life-changing and world-changing programme. We need more committed people who want to defend human rights, equality, and democracy – and who want to help drive change, both locally and globally.”

And Linnaeus University?

“It’s a place where real change happens.”

Frequently asked questions about Media, Democracy and Human Rights

What does the master programme in Media, Democracy and Human Rights focus on?

The programme focuses on analysing media's role in democratic societies, understanding the legal and ethical dimensions of human rights, and exploring how media can be used to protect and promote these rights.

What are the core subjects and skills I will develop during the programme?

Core subjects include media theory, democracy studies, and human rights law. Skills developed will range from critical thinking and analysis to effective communication and research methodologies in media contexts.

How does the programme encourage interdisciplinary approaches and collaboration between media studies and human rights perspectives?

The programme integrates media studies with political science and law, fostering an understanding of the interplay between media, democracy, and human rights, and encouraging collaborative approaches to address complex societal issues.

How does the programme address the ethical and societal challenges related to media, democracy, and human rights?

Through case studies and theoretical exploration, it addresses misinformation, media bias, freedom of expression, and the role of media in protecting and promoting human rights and democratic values.

What qualities are good to have when studying the master programme in Media, Democracy and Human Rights?

Critical thinking, ethical integrity, and a commitment to social justice are key. A passion for media and communication along with a strong sense of civic responsibility will also benefit your studies.

Distance – study where you are

Distance learning can be structured in different ways – it may be entirely online, or include a few on-campus sessions or meetings at one of our learning centres. The common factor is that most of the learning happens online.

You communicate with your teacher and fellow students through a learning platform, which provides access to discussion forums, group work opportunities, and digital meetings. In many cases, you also have access to recorded lectures via the platform.

The advantage of distance learning is its flexibility – ideal for those who want more freedom to decide when and where to study. However, keep in mind that some mandatory elements of your programme may take place during working hours, even if they are conducted online.