International Bachelor Communication and Media

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Erasmus University Rotterdam

Program Overview

The International Bachelor Communication and Media (IBCoM) at Erasmus University Rotterdam is a three-year English-taught BSc program that dives into the global world of media through sociological, cultural, political, and economic lenses, blending theory, research skills, and hands-on practice. It's perfect for curious, ambitious students who thrive in diverse classrooms and want to explore media's impact on society, business, and tech—preparing you for exciting careers or master's programs with internships, exchanges, and customization built right in.

Curriculum structure
Year 1 lays a strong foundation by introducing core concepts across communication fields, starting with courses like Introduction to Human Communication, Media Industries and Audiences, and Communication Technologies and Their Impacts. You'll explore how media shapes organizations, societies, and global interactions through classes such as Communication and Organizations and Media Systems in Comparative Perspective, while building academic skills in research, writing, and social sciences—setting you up for real-world application from day one.

Year 2 dives deeper into specialized methods and practice, with standout courses like International and Global Communication, Quantitative Methods in Media and Communication, and Qualitative Methods in Media and Communication. You'll sharpen professional skills in Communication Management, New Media Production, and Communication and Media Labour Market Orientation, then cap the year with a hands-on internship to test your growing expertise in a real media or communication setting.

Year 3 lets you specialize and shine, choosing focus areas with courses like those in Communication and Business (e.g., The Business of Media, Social Media Marketing), Media and Entertainment (e.g., Digital Games and Society, Transmedia Entertainment), or International and Global Communication (e.g., Crisis Management, ICTs in the Global South). You can opt for an international exchange or minor, then wrap up with the Bachelor Thesis Project and Communication Workshop 5: Communication Ethics, creating a personalized path that launches you into advanced studies or top jobs.

Focus areas: Tailor your studies to passions like Communication and Business (media business, marketing), Media and Entertainment (games, transmedia), or International and Global Communication (relations, crisis leadership), plus electives in business, economics, or sociology.

Learning outcomes: Gain expertise in media's societal impact, research methods (quantitative/qualitative), practical skills in digital content and management, intercultural competence, and a global perspective—equipping you to analyze, strategize, and innovate in communication.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Offered by Erasmus University's accredited Media and Communication Department, this BSc meets rigorous Dutch and European standards, with built-in internships and workshops ensuring seamless entry into media, PR, marketing, or policy roles.

Reputation (employability rankings): Erasmus University ranks among Europe's top institutions for social sciences (including media/communication) in QS World University Rankings, with IBCoM grads boasting strong employability thanks to its international focus, practical training, and vibrant alumni network in global media firms.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the International Bachelor in Communication and Media at Erasmus University Rotterdam, you'll dive into hands-on experiential learning right from the start, building real-world skills through interactive methods like group projects, simulations, and digital media projects that mirror industry demands. Housed in the Erasmus School of History, Culture and Communication (ESHCC), the program equips you with cutting-edge tools and facilities, including innovative tech for media production and analysis, all while collaborating in diverse, international teams to create portfolios that stand out to employers.

This practical focus comes alive through specific opportunities like these:
- Group projects designed to tackle real communication challenges, fostering teamwork and idea implementation in international settings, much like those in RSM's collaborative programs.
- In-class role-play simulations, VR simulations, and video games led by experts like Dr. Vivian Chen, who specializes in interactive digital media for experiential learning in media and communication.
- Interdisciplinary projects drawing from ESHCC resources, including design sessions and working groups that build your ability to produce media content and negotiate digital identities.
- Access to ESHCC's media labs and digital tools, such as VR setups, AI-driven platforms, and serious games for hands-on research into social media, virtual environments, and communication tech.
- University-wide facilities like the Erasmus University Library with specialized media collections, plus collaborative spaces at ESHCC and partner institutes for research and production.
- Elective ties to RSM and ISS for broader experiential elements, including potential study trips, external lectures, and networking with corporate partners.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this programme opens doors to a wide range of global careers, thanks to its strong academic foundation and international focus. Students develop versatile communication, analytical, and media skills that are highly valued across industries. Many graduates go on to roles such as Communication Advisor, PR Manager, Media Analyst, and Digital Marketer, working in both corporate and creative sectors

What makes this degree especially powerful is how it connects directly to industry needs and future opportunities:

Dedicated career support services: Access to Erasmus career services, including guidance on CV building, job applications, and career strategy, helping students transition smoothly into employment
Mandatory internship experience: Students complete an internship (minimum ~8.5 weeks), gaining real industry exposure and building professional networks early
Strong employability outcomes: The programme is well-established and known to offer excellent chances on the job market, with graduates entering diverse roles across industries
Industry relevance & partnerships: Close collaboration with organisations and real-world projects ensures your skills match current media and communication trends
Global recognition & accreditation: A degree from Erasmus University—ranked among top global institutions—offers strong international credibility and career mobility
Wide career pathways: Graduates work in fields like journalism, marketing, policy-making, branding, and media production, reflecting the programme’s interdisciplinary strength

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this bachelor’s, you have excellent options to continue your studies and specialise further. Many students progress into Master’s programmes in Media Studies, Communication, Marketing, or Digital Media at Erasmus or other top universities worldwide.

You can directly enter specialised master’s programmes within Erasmus (e.g., Media Studies tracks)
You may pursue research master’s degrees, leading to PhD opportunities in communication, media, or social sciences
The programme also provides a strong base for international postgraduate study, expanding your global career prospects