Master in Digital Communication Leadership


Master in Digital Communication Leadership

Welcome to the forefront of digital communication transformation with the Master in Digital Communication Leadership (DCLead).

DCLead is organised by four European universities in Austria, Denmark, Belgium and the Netherlands. The programme looks at digital communication from different angles, combining advanced academic discussions with practical skills. It aims to develop future leaders in the field by promoting a reflective, non-technologically deterministic, social and ethical approach to digital communication. Students can choose from three different tracks based on their preferences, qualifications and the approval of the selection committee. DCLead also works with numerous academic and internship partners, like UCLA in California, US.

DCLead: Navigating Global Horizons in Digital Communication Education

In the first semester, your journey begins in Salzburg, Austria, where your studies are complemented by the city’s cultural vibrancy. The second and third semesters promise academic adventure: Copenhagen’s Nordic charm, the diplomatic heart of Brussels or the cosiness of Wageningen in the Netherlands.
The fourth and final semester could take you all over the globe. Imagine yourself in the US, Australia, Ghana, or other countries, working with academic partners or gaining a hands-on insight through industry internships.

Four universities:

  • Paris Lodron University of Salzburg (Salzburg, Austria)
  • Aalborg University Copenhagen (Copenhagen, Denmark)
  • Vrije Universiteit Brussel (Brussels, Belgium)
  • Wageningen University & Research (Wageningen, Netherlands)Master in Digital Communication Leadership

Your Path, Your Track: POLINN, TECMAN, ICT4D

All classes are taught in English, so English skills are required. Students must successfully complete 120 ECTS for the Master in Digital Communication Leadership programme. They can choose one of the following tracks:

Digital Communication, Policy and Innovation in Europe (POLINN)

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s (or master’s) degree in communication or other social science disciplines.
POLINN graduates understand the complex interaction between policy makers, market forces and users in digital communication, including cultural dimensions. In addition, their skills include critical market analysis and socially informed contextualisation of global digital communication trends and debates.
Students who complete the POLINN track are awarded a Master of Arts (MA) by both the PLUS (Paris Lodron University of Salzburg) and VUB (Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium).

Digital Technology and Management (TECMAN)

Applicants for this stream should hold a bachelor (or master’s) degree within development and/or management of information and communication technologies (Computer Science, Information Technology, Informatics, Computer or Telecommunications Engineering or Information and Communications Technology Management). Candidates with another bachelor’s degree will be considered if they have similar educational requirements.
TECMAN graduates are equipped to manage the dynamic between technological development and business opportunities in digital communications. They specialise in promoting new business models, evaluating technology trends and navigating the use and integration of new media.
Graduates are awarded a „Master of Science“ (MSc) degree from both the PLUS and AAU (Aalborg Universitet, Denmark).

Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D)

Applicants for this stream should hold a Bachelor’s degree of a duration of at least three years or a Master’s degree in one of the following subjects: Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology/Development Studies, European Studies, International Relations/International Organisations, Environmental Social Studies, Political Science, Human Geography, Sociology or Communication Studies.
Students in this stream will understand the opportunities and risks associated with using digital communications to improve human, social and economic conditions, especially for people in developing countries.
By completing the ICT4D programme, you will receive a Master of Science (MSc) from DCLead and an MSc International Development Studies from WU (Wageningen University).

More Information

English proficiency

For stage 1 (application) it’s recommended that you demonstrate your English language skills, and for stage 2 (registration) it’s a requirement. So, if you’re sure you have the necessary English language skills, you can apply even if you have not yet received a test result. It’s not a problem if you don’t have proof of your English language skills for application.

If you are shortlisted for Phase 2, you’ll need to provide evidence of your English language skills. You won’t be able to register for the programme without valid proof.

 Further information on the English proficiency and other requirements
 Application form
 Information on course costs
 Video

Individuals with disabilities are underrepresented in higher education institutions. As inclusion is one of the core organisational values of DCLead, the programme actively seeks to attract students with special needs and welcomes applications from candidates with disabilities.