Master of Science in Sociology and Communication

Modern societies face various challenges stemming from climate change, migration and other population dynamics, social inequalities, technological development, and violent conflicts. These challenges manifest in terms of phenomena such as online polarization, discrimination, distrust of institutions, or contesting social movements. How can these challenges be described, explained and met? The Research Master in Sociology and Communication at the University of Bern provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to address such questions.

The Research Master in Sociology and Communication brings together sociological perspectives on social inequalities, cultural differences, and demographic shifts with questions on the role of (social) media and political communication in shaping sustainable societal development and change. The faculty involved in this research master program has longstanding research experience and expertise in teaching sociological theory building, social stratification research, media and communication studies, and social science research methods, including computational social science.

 

If you have questions regarding the content or structure of the program, please contact Academic Student Adivce.

Basic information
Degree:

Master of Science in Sociology and Communication, University of Bern
Number of credits: 90 ECTS credits
Degree programs:

Mono 90 ECTS credits


Offer for other degree programs:

  • Minor 30 ECTS credits
Duration: 3 semesters
Language: English

Beginning studies:

Fall semester (recommended); spring semester (possible – please consult the program coordinator)

Details of program

The aims of the Research Master in Sociology and Communication are to (1) train students in research methods such as theory building and statistical methods, and (2) let students contribute to cutting-edge research in sociology and communication science. Ultimately, students will produce a master thesis that can be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal. Students who complete the master will be equipped to pursue social science research as part of a PhD program, at research institutes inside or outside of universities, in public administration, at NGOs, or in research departments of for-profit companies.

 

Structure of the mono program

The Research Master in Sociology and Communication program is a single-subject (mono) program with 90 ECTS credits. These credits are attained through courses amounting to 60 ECTS credits and a master thesis for 30 ECTS credits.

Research Master program structure
Courses ECTS

Compulsory courses

 total 24
  • Theory building, development and testing
 6
  • Applied research methods I (Fall semester)
 6
  • Applied research methods II (Spring semester)
 6
  • Research topics in sociology and communication
 6

Compulsory elective courses (min. 2 courses of the following):

 total 12 - 18
  • Applied research in inequality, culture, and social relations
 6
  • Applied research in political communication
 6
  • Applied research in computational social science
 6

Elective courses

total 18 - 24
  • Master level courses in sociology and communication
  • Research internship at the Institute of Sociology or the Institute of Communication and Media Studies
  • Other courses at master or advanced bachelor level (Learning agreement with the master program coordinator must be made in advance)
Master thesis 30

Structure of the minor program

The 30 ECTS credits for the minor program in the research master's program in sociology and communication can be earned accordingly:

Structure of the minor program
Courses ECTS
Compulsory courses total 12
  • Theory building, development and testing
 6
  • Applied research methods I or II
 6
Compulsory elective courses (min. 1 course of the following): total 6 - 18
  • Applied research in inequality, culture, and social relations
 6
  • Applied research in political communication
 6
  • Applied research in computational social science
 6
Elective courses total 0 - 12
  • Research topics in sociology and communication
 6
  • Master-level courses in sociology and communication

Deadlines

Requirements

Individual academic requirements

The following academic qualifications are required for admission to the master program in Sociology and Communication:

a)

Bachelor's degree from a Swiss university in one of the following branches of study:

  • Communication and Media Science
  • Political Science or
  • Sociology

Knowledge and skills not acquired during the completed bachelor’s degree program can be stipulated as additional coursework up to a maximum of 60 ECTS credits. Graduates of the major study program in Social Sciences at the University of Bern are admitted without any admission requirements.
b) Bachelor’s degree from a Swiss university in another branch of study, provided additional coursework worth a maximum of 60 ECTS credits meets the requirements for successfully completing the master’s degree program
c) Bachelor’s degree from a recognized foreign university with equivalent qualifications, provided additional coursework worth a maximum of 60 ECTS credits is required to successfully complete the master’s degree program

Language requirements

Applicants with a foreign educational qualification must provide proof of an English language test at level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference with the corresponding minimum score when registering for the program:

Language certificate Minimum score
TOEFL iBT 95
IELTS 7.0
Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE)

The language test must not be more than two years old at the time of application; older tests will not be accepted.

An exemption from the English test is possible for students who have completed their studies in English within a language community in which English is the majority spoken language.

For questions regarding application and admission, please contact the Admissions Office.

Application and admission

Application and admission

Admission requirements 
Application deadlines
 

Current UniBE students

Apply for a change to the M Sc in Sociology and Communicaton, Universität Bern, by self-service as part of the re-registration for the next semester.
Renewal of semester registration → Self-service
Recognition of academic achievements
Procedure and timing of the renewal of semester registration
   

Application with a Swiss degree

Online application
Assessment
Steps from application to registration
 

Application with an international degree

Online application
CHECKLIST - documents for your application / important information
Steps from application to registration

 
For questions regarding application and admission, please contact the Admissions Office.

After your master's degree

Successful completion of the Research Master in Sociology and Communication at the University of Bern opens up a wide range of opportunities for graduates. This master's program offers an excellent start to an academic career as well as a research position in public administration or the private sector. 

Academic Research and Doctoral Studies

Graduates of the research master are ideally prepared for a PhD and an academic career in sociology, communication, or related social sciences. Through intensive training in theory development, advanced research methods, and independent empirical work, students acquire the skills necessary to design and conduct original research projects. The program’s strong emphasis on a substantial master’s thesis and research-oriented coursework provides a solid foundation for contributing to scholarly debates and pursuing positions at universities or research institutes.

Policy Analysis and Public Sector Advisory

This master equips graduates to work in government institutions, international organizations, and think tanks. With expertise in analyzing social inequalities, political communication, and societal trends, graduates can support evidence-based policymaking. Their ability to interpret complex data and translate findings into actionable recommendations makes them valuable contributors to public policy development, evaluation, and planning.

Data and Research Specialist in the Private Sector

Graduates are well suited for roles in market research, data analytics, and consulting. The program’s focus on applied and computational social science methods enables students to work with large datasets, conduct advanced analyses, and generate insights into consumer behavior, media use, and social dynamics. Employers in consulting firms, tech companies, and research agencies value these analytical and methodological competencies.

Political Communication and Media Analysis

This master prepares graduates for careers at the intersection of communication science, politics, and media. With a strong focus on political communication, students develop a deep understanding of how information is produced, framed, and disseminated in contemporary media systems. Graduates are equipped to analyze public discourse, evaluate communication strategies, and assess the role of media in democratic processes. These skills open career opportunities in political consulting, public affairs, journalism, advocacy, and strategic communication roles within governmental bodies, international organizations, and media institutions.

NGO and International Development Work

Graduates interested in social impact can work in non-governmental organizations and international development agencies. Their expertise in social research, inequality, and cultural dynamics allows them to design, implement, and evaluate programs addressing societal challenges. They are particularly well prepared for roles that require rigorous assessment of interventions and evidence-based approaches to social change.