The field of Strategic Communication, which focuses on managing communication between organizations and their internal and external stakeholders, is represented in both research and teaching by Prof. Dr. Thomas Koch at the Department of Communication (Institut für Publizistik) at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz.

In teaching, the division is responsible for the two-year consecutive Master’s program in Strategic Communication. This selective degree program prepares graduates for professional roles in communication management. Over the course of four semesters, students gain insights into all aspects of managing organizational communication with internal and external stakeholders. The program emphasizes sustainability communication, crisis communication, and internal communication. In addition to practice-oriented courses, there is a strong focus on research methods and the implementation of empirical studies.

In research, the division focuses on three key areas:

1. Boundaries between journalism and public relations – focusing on professional overlaps, the influence of PR on journalism, and individuals working at the intersection of both fields.

2. Effects of persuasive communication – examining the psychological mechanisms behind persuasion, effects of message repetition, and the roles of credibility and trust.

3. Critical issues mangement – exploring how organizations deal with controversial topics and respond in times of crisis.

The Master’s Program in Strategic Communication

Our degree program provides a profound understanding of how to analyze, develop, and implement communication strategies by combining scientific foundations with practice-oriented approaches.
Detailed information about the program is available here: https://strategischekommunikation.uni-mainz.de/ .

Study And Academic Support

The Studies Office for Communication (Studienbüro Publizistik) is the central point of contact for all program-related matters. It provides academic advising, supports students with questions about study organization, and handles key administrative processes such as credit transfer (e.g., for coursework completed abroad) and internship recognition. The office also manages administrative matters for the Master’s programs in Communication.

International Mobility

The Department of Communication actively encourages international study experiences. Through the EU-funded ERASMUS program, the department maintains partnerships with numerous institutions across Europe specializing in media and communication studies. Students wishing to pursue study abroad opportunities outside ERASMUS are supported by the university’s International Office (Abteilung Internationales/Outgoing).

Further Information

For more information and a full list of contact persons at the department, please visit:
www.ifp.uni-mainz.de
For general guidance on organizing your studies at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, please visit:
www.studium.uni-mainz.de

Master’s Theses

A comprehensive guide to writing a Master’s thesis is available here. It includes all essential administrative information, such as how to register your thesis.

Students specializing in Strategic Communication may choose from a range of topics for their final oral exam. The list of available topics can be found here.