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Data and Discourse Studies

Master of Arts

Description

Data and Discourse Studies, M.A. is an interdisciplinary course of studies in discourse analysis with a focus on research data. Discourse analysis deals with the relationship between language, knowledge and society. The focus is on combining language analysis with historical, sociological, philosophical or political science research. In addition, there is the close interlocking with digital and informatic approaches. A central point is the handling of research data, their processing and digital analysis. Research data in the humanities and social sciences are essentially spoken language and written texts. The course focuses on how these data are collected, organized, analyzed, and interpreted.

Module Handbook (opens in new tab)

Study Regulations with Semester Course and Examination Schedule (German, legally binding)

Study Regulations with Semester Course and Examination Schedule (English. The English translation is for information purposes only. The legally binding document is the German version.) (opens in new tab)

Course Catalogue

Institute for Linguistics and Literature

Learn more about the programme

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Degree Master of Arts
Duration 4 Semesters
Programme start
Language: English. Individual courses/modules can be offered in German. Be prepared to read scientific literature in German, too..
Costs and budget Costs and budget
Admission Applying with international qualifications (language requirements, application deadlines): International Admission.
Requirements for admission to the Master’s degree programme are comprised of a “Bachelor of Arts” from the same programme or an equivalent degree. Admission to the Master’s Degree programme may also depend on additional requirements. Specific degree entrance requirements may be found here and in the competences description.
Proof of proficiency in English at C1 (GER) level, to be submitted by report cards of equivalents (opens in new tab).
Internship Completing an internship or even several internships throughout the programme is recommended particularly regarding professional orientation.
Part-time Studies possible under specific conditions
Special Features Preparatory steps:

History, M.A.

Linguistic and Literary Computing, M.A.

Sociology, M.A.

Upon successful completion of a Master of Arts degree, there is the opportunity to begin working towards a Ph.D. either at the Technical University of Darmstadt or at another national or international university: Ph.D. at Technical University of Darmstadt

Under the conditions of Big Data, Discourse Analysts are important complementary figures to Data Scientists, especially in commercial enterprises. The career opportunities for graduates are correspondingly positive in all occupational fields in which data is not only processed computationally, but also prepared linguistically in a target group-oriented manner, e.g. for strategy papers, reports, background dossiers or company reports. In concrete terms, the degree programme qualifies students for future occupations such as data journalism, marketing, market research, public relations, management consulting and corporate communications.

For this reason it is important to start early in the degree program to gain practical work experience in relevant organisations. In this way students can promote themselves as competent professionals in practice and make important professional contacts. The likelihood of finding a good position is definitely heightened if the student is flexible when it comes to commuting or even moving abroad. Good English language skills are particularly important when it comes to the international job market.

TU Darmstadt Career Services