Bachelor Communication Science

In the 2019 Keuzegids Universiteiten study guide, our bachelor’s programme was rated ‘Top Programme’. We are the only university that teaches and researches communication in the contemporary context of technology, design and organizations. We will familiarize you with the latest technologies and how they influence – and depend on – communication. UT – ranked ‘the best technical university in the Netherlands’ by the 2018 Keuzegids Universiteiten – is the ideal place to do this: many of the technologies that will shape our future are developed and studied here on campus, from apps and web applications to robotics and adaptive systems. Your insight into all these possibilities and threats will give you an edge on the job market.

One of UT’s distinguishing characteristics is its practical application of scientific knowledge. Social impact is one of our university’s core values and we have a strong focus on connecting communication theory with the real-life challenges of our time. In every module, you will work on a team project in which you and your team mates will directly apply the knowledge you have gained to a current issue. This is the foundation of the Twente Education Model. You will make plans, work together in multidisciplinary teams, collect information, analyse, distribute tasks, report and present. You will become an academically grounded, creative problem solver. 

Another unique feature of our bachelor’s programme is the place we give design. It is one of our focal points in this programme. After all, everything communicates – from a product’s packaging or a salesperson’s clothing to the dentist’s office or the layout of a creative studio. Our emphasis on design will help you get familiar with visual communication and with the interplay of the senses. At UT, design will become an integral part of your repertoire: you will become a communication professional who can influence behaviour and experience through multisensory design. You will be familiar with new technologies – such as Virtual Reality, ambient technology and 3 printing – and the possibilities these offer to create realistic products and spaces that appeal to all the senses.

The fourth unique and highly topical pillar of our Bachelor’s programme is organizational knowledge. Organizational structures and employment relationships are changing and growing more flexible. Innovations are shaking up companies and markets. Digitalization is making everything visible and transparent. Organizations increasingly operate in international, intercultural contexts and ‘networks of networks’. The media landscape is reshaping itself as well. In this programme you will learn to recognize these shifts and to tap into the dynamics of our time.

As you can see, this programme goes far beyond classical communication science. As a university known for its many technical courses, we will teach you to think and act as an ‘engineer’. You will be equipped to systematically solve complex communication problems using theories, research and academic and professional skills. Areas like project management and collaboration are also part of this. With your academic level of thinking and your hands-on approach, you will be able to achieve the best results possible. Also, this bachelor’s programme gives you direct access to our master’s programme Communication Studies, with its four future-oriented specializations: Digital Marketing Communication; Marketing Communication & Design; Organizational Communication & Reputation; and Technology & Communication.

In addition to thorough professional knowledge and skills, you develop a broad set of 21^stcentury skills and personal competencies. You will learn to recognize and anticipate trends and developments. You will develop a work ethos centring on self-reflection and lifelong learning. You will be challenged to see to and to collaborate across disciplinary and cultural boundaries. You will benefit from our magnificent campus and small-scale educational environment with an informal, personal approach aimed at helping you to flourish, both professionally and personally. You will learn to manage tasks, to communicate and to give and receive feedback. In short: At UT you will become a confident and competent communication professional.