This master’s program combines popular culture and cultural mediation between Germany and Latin America in a practical way for the first time. It does this both as a research and professional field of qualification. A stay abroad at a Latin American university as well as practical projects form an integral part of the program. These projects focus on questions regarding German-Latin American cultural mediation and communication, which students shall critically reflect upon, discuss, further develop and prepare digitally – all based on scientific research theories and methods.
Restricted admission means that there is a limited number of places available in the degree programme (NC = numerus clausus = closed number). As a rule, there are more applicants than places, therefore a selection procedure is used.
Free admission means that there are sufficient places available in the degree program. All applicants therefore receive an acceptance letter and are guaranteed enrollment if all enrollment requirements are met (e.g. aptitude tests, language tests or internships).
You can find all details about deadlines and your next steps on the general Paderborn University Application Information websites.
Please check the admission requirements in advance.
Latin America has become a central cultural region for Germany in the 21st century. Important and vital social, cultural and economic exchange and communication processes between Latin America and Germany have been established, especially in recent years, and are considered particularly promising for the future of Germany, Europe, and Latin America. In order to be able to accompany, moderate, present and critically question these processes, basic competences of transcultural communication, mediation and moderation, presentation skills are needed to gain a better and an in-depth look into the different (popular) cultures, communication methods and perspectives.
Popular culture(s) play a central role for these inter- and transcultural communication processes. With its different perspectives, understandings, and attitudes it is one of the most important and – of course - popular fields of cultural mediation, communication and negotiation in society, be it in comics, film, music, literature, theater or other media.
During the course of your study, you will deal with the following topics:
You will not only deal with those fields, but also reflect on them in teaching forms focused on research, media and musical practices, seminars, and especially transdisciplinary projects. You will familiarize yourself with and apply the different practices and reflect on them theoretically and critically, e.g. in projects of cultural practices, theater, concert, podcast, film, crime literature management and learn to critically question them.
The course of this international master’s program is a semester abroad at a Latin American university, which will allow you to get to know Latin American educational institutions as well as their cultural and creative industries and to expand and deepen the knowledge you have acquired in the study program. For this purpose, we have an established network of accomplished and attractive Latin American and international cooperation partners from different institutions and countries. In addition, we have well established relations with partners from media and music industries, cultural communication, management, and politics to support you and your opportunities during your studies with us. These opportunities will allow you to apply and reflect on your theoretical and methodological competences you have acquired in application-oriented contects and facilitate your entry into professional life in German-Latin American “PopMediaCulture” worlds.
PopMediaCulture - German-Latin American Cultural Mediation
Introductionary video of the new course of studies PopMediaCulture at the University of Paderborn.
The program is divided into a total of eleven modules:
A central part of the master’s program „PopMediaCulture“ is a semester abroad at a Latin American university. Currently, you can choose between a semester abroad at partner universities in Argentina, Chile and Columbia. We maintain very good and personal relationships with these universities. Due to these intensive personal and research-based contacts, we can guarantee an excellent local support as well as service abroad. Moreover, we offer an extensive support and advice in choosing a university as well as applying for scholarships abroad. Various scholarship opportunities are available at our university to provide financial support for your study abroad.
The master’s program „PopMediaCulture“ is characterized by the teaching of in-depth knowledge of the Spanish language as well as a high proportion of research, media, and musical practices, practical teaching content and formats. In addition to theoretical and methodological content, these also provide you with fundamental skills in the field of digital humanities.
Supported by the Centre of Information and Media Technology (IMT), Paderborn University offers contemporary structures and seminars in media and music production as well as media practices (journalism, advertising, etc.). It also offers access to up-to-date software and hardware.
In the context of transdisciplinary projects, such as inter- and transcultural management and cultural mediation, theater projects, concert series, podcasts, blogs or videos, you will practice conceptualization, organization, and reflection of basic contents of the program.
Professional job areas for graduates can be in the fields of cultural politics, inter- and trans-cultural communication, music and media industries, literature, journalism (radio, TV, print, online print) as well as in diverse cultural, arts and creative industries (e.g. galleries, museums, theaters).
Throughout the course of your degree, you may have some questions regarding vocational guidance and goal-setting. As the gateway between university and working life, the Career Service is on hand to answer all your career planning questions. Want to find out about potential careers, forge contacts with employers, identify your personal strengths and interests or clarify specific questions about starting out in a given career? Then make sure that you take advantage of the university’s comprehensive range of talks and workshops, practical projects, job and career portal and vocational preparation certificate upb+.
Interested in the start-up scene? Then visit us at TecUP! We promote start-ups in Paderborn and will support you on your path to self-employment. We’ll be by your side throughout every stage of the start-up process – completely free of charge and with no obligation! garage33 is our dedicated space for creativity and exchange, networking and working. In addition to tailored coaching, we also offer workshops and events for you to learn the theory and practice of setting up a business in an innovative and creative environment, and to help you formulate, develop and validate your idea.
Want to start a business, but lack the seed capital to do so? We can help you apply for grants and put you in touch with our network of business angels and investors. Or merely looking to get an insight into start-ups, for some inspiration or to network with business founders? Then visit our courses or events, such as CALL FOR IDEAS, apply for a start-up job or simply visit us at garage33 – we look forward to meeting you!
This master’s program, not only prepares students for numerous professional fields, but it also qualifies students for a PhD/doctorate degree in related academic areas.
Our “Einblick!” (insights) peer mentoring programme gives female students in the final stages of their degree the chance to discuss doing a PhD and to prepare for a PhD. Participants are teamed up with a female PhD student, who, based on her own experience, gives them tips and strategies to assist them with their decision to pursue a PhD. The aim of the programme is to give participants insights into the kind of academic and research work involved in a PhD and for them to talk to their mentor about her experience in order to build on their personal and professional skills and broaden their development opportunities.
The Faculty of Arts and Humanities provides students pursuing postgraduate qualifications with support. The team at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities Postgraduate Centre will be more than happy to provide you with information and advice.
In order to make the best of your start at the Paderborn University we offer an Orientation (so-called "O-Phase" in German) for all Freshmen, which takes place before the lecture period starts. During these days, you will receive the necessary support to familiarize yourself with the university, campus life and in your studies. Take the time to participate actively to have all the necessary tools and information for the perfect start of your studies!
Campus life
There’s far more to studying at Paderborn University than just your degree course. Those thirsty for knowledge, those seeking discussion and debate and all those looking for something new can, for example, benefit from the opportunity to learn a new language or build on their existing language skills at the university’s Centre for Language Studies or brush up their software skills on a doIT course. IMT:Media offers dedicated media workstations on which you can give your creativity free reign, while the university’s wide and varied sports programme ranges from Aikido to Zumba. Or why not get involved with the university’s radio station L’UniCo or its “universal” magazine or join one of our multitude of project groups or initiatives.
Culture
A regular programme of plays and shows performed by our University Drama Group, poetry slams and readings, our big band and university choir are just a few examples of the diverse cultural activities and events on offer at Paderborn University. One particular highlight is our AStA (German General Students’ Committee) summer festival: Up to 15,000 people each year attend what is probably Germany’s largest outdoor campus festival, to enjoy the summer party vibes to the beats of a host of local student bands, plus well-known headliners on a number of stages.
Campus
Almost all of Paderborn University’s buildings are located on campus, with ample green spaces for relaxing and plenty of places to eat: “Mensa Academica”, “Mensa Forum”, “Grill | Café” and “Caféte”, as well as “Lädchen”, our small campus kiosk. Everything is within easy reach, within just a short walking distance. Our library is also centrally located, and a great place to study, thanks to its handy opening hours.
Accommodation
If you’d like to live on or close to campus, you can apply to Paderborn University’s Student Union for a place in university accommodation. You can also find private accommodation to rent, both near the university and city centre and in Paderborn’s various residential areas though the usual housing portals.
Finance
Students who need or wish to work alongside their degree should easily be able to fit a part-time job around their studies. A scholarship or BAföG federal student grant or loan are further options to help you fund your course and living expenses.
Advisory services
We have the right contact point for every question and concern. Our advice and service centres, for example, are on hand to answer any questions you may have about your academic or research work, applying for your dream job, funding options and much more.
Our university is a cosmopolitan university, with a clear gender and diversity policy. We have been actively promoting equal opportunities and a gender and family-friendly work and study culture for a number of years now. This includes helping students achieve a better study-life balance and supporting students with health issues.
The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
E-Mail: zsb(at)upb(dot)de
Phone:05251/60-2007
We support prospective students in their choice of studies and in their decision to study. In addition, we advise students in all phases of their studies, especially in phases of reorientation.
Prof. Dr. Heinrich Klingmann
E-Mail: heinrich.klingmann(at)uni-paderborn(dot)de
Phone: 05251/60-4318
[Translate to English:] Referentin für Internationalisierung
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International Office
E-Mail: io-info(at)zv.uni-paderborn(dot)de
Registrar’s Office
Uni-Assist
Please apply for this program, regardless of your nationality, via the Uni-Assist Online Portal, if you don't have a German University Entrance Qualification.
Bildungsinländer*innen
If you don't have the German citizenship, but have received your university entrance qualification from a German school inside or outside of Germany (= Bildungsinländer*innen), apply for the program directly at the online portal PAUL of the admissions office. (Please initially supply a grade of 4,0; follow further instructions by email after registration in the online system.)
Examination Office
[Translate to English:] Beratung für Studierende mit Beeinträchtigung
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Informationen und Beratung zum Studium mit Behinderung und chronischer Krankheit
FamilienServiceBüro
We support you in balancing your studies and family life.