This is a 120 ECTS major, meaning that you will also need to complete a 60 ECTS minor in another subject to graduate with a BA degree.
The programme is demanding, but also engaging, wide-ranging and practical.
The main topics are information gathering and news writing, the role and status of the media in democratic societies, values, laws and ethics, as well as the methods and techniques used in professional journalism.
The programme also covers Icelandic politics and society, providing students with better knowledge and a more in-depth understanding of topical issues. Students are trained to write news text and articles in good, clear Icelandic. They are also trained to communicate using different formats for text, audio and video media.
Students receive extensive practical instruction and training on the tools and software used by journalists. Training placements with media companies are an important part of the programme.
A maximum of 25 new students are admitted each year.
Completing this programme allows you to access a range of Master’s programmes.
Find out more about majors and minors in undergraduate studies under helpful content below.
Student must have completed an Icelandic matriculation examination or an equivalent qualification. Other level 3 qualifications shall be considered equivalent to a matriculation examination if the applicant has completed 20 credits in Icelandic and 20 credits in English (including 10 credits at level 3 in each subject), 5 credits in mathematics (at a minimum of level 2) and 5 credits in science or social studies. Completing the preliminary studies programme at Keilir, the preliminary studies programme at Reykjavík University, or the university gateway programme at Bifröst University is considered equivalent to a matriculation examination and satisfies admission requirements for BA programmes at the Faculty.
The intake is limited at the number 25
If there are more applicants meeting the admission requirements than can be admitted, the faculty shall take into consideration the following:
120 ECTS credits have to be completed in the major with 60 ECTS in the minor in order to graduate with a BA degree. The degree consists of: Compulsory courses 85 ECTS; 58e in journalism, 12e in media studies, 8e in introduction in political science, 8e in research methods. Restrictive elective courses 12 ECTS, electives 12 ECTS and a BA final project of 10 ECTS.
Check below to see how the programme is structured.
This programme does not offer specialisations.
A core module in journalism. The aim of course is to introduce to students the role and responsibilty of journalism in democratic societies, and provide grounding in journalistic writing and editing skills. The module starts with discussions about the role the media has in democratic societies. Then the emphasis moves on to newswriting. Main concepts and methods of reporting are introduced, such as news values, news gathering, news structure and editing. Furthermore we will focus the presentation of news in different types of media, with an emphasis on online news.
Students write news stories and articles for the study program´s online news site.
The aim of this course is for students to gain an understanding of the role of the media in the communication, development, and protection of the Icelandic language. Students will be trained to write news texts and articles in good Icelandic and to use a variety of authors' aids. They also receive guidance in voice use and appearance. The use of words and concepts in a multicultural and diverse society will also be discussed.
In this course the focus is on the Icelandic media system and its development to the present day. The main characteristics of the Icelandic media system are examined and especially how it interacts with the political and economic systems. The main theories of media systems will be introduced and the development of the Icelandic media system will be put into context with developments in other countries. Among the questions addressed are those of the impact of ownership, competition and convergence on different types of media outlets in Iceland.
The course starts with a general introduction to political science, covering different analytical approaches (e.g. systems approach, functional approach, power approach), decision-making and policy formation (e.g. Simon, Lindblom, Richardson, et al.), comparative government (e.g. the nation state, cleavages, forms of government), political socialization and political culture. The latter part of the course concentrates more heavily on the Icelandic political system, covering the main features of the development of the political system in the 19th and 20th centuries (e.g. nationalism, cleavages, major periods of the politics of independence and modern politics), the constitution, political parties and elections (e.g. development of the franchise and electoral system, participation, party system, organization, voting behaviour), the legislature (Althingi), and the executive (e.g. president, government and the coalition system, the bureaucracy, relations to interest organizations, policy-making and local government).
This course addresses the main topics of gender and diversity studies in the light of critical multiculturalism and the diversity of modern societies. It explores the way in which social variables such as gender, sexuality, ethnicity, religion, disability, age and class differently affects people’s conditions and opportunities. It presents the main ideas of gender and diversity studies, such as gender, essentialism and social constructivism, and explores how social variables are interwoven into people’s lives. The emphasis is on how issues such as gender, multiculturalism, and diversity are related to Icelandic politics and society.
Data er increasingly important for political scientists, whether they are public servants, work in media or business, in social activities or research. Having data literacy and the ability to communicate quantitative information is, therefore, of fundamental importance for political scientists. In this course, students will gain an understanding of data and data analysis with the aim of making them confident and competent users of data. The main focus of the course will be on data visualization, with students being introduced to fundamental principles of how to communiate a variety of data visuallly. Students will gain hands on experience in working with common political science datasets and develop appropriate skills to find, work with, and communicate data with commonly used statistical software package.
The aim of this course is to train students in working with audio and visual media, including podcast and the use of smartphones to produce news. The nature of audio and visual media, their main characteristics, qualities and limitations are discussed. Student will learn to write and structure audio and visual news stories and to make use of the qualities of sound and pictures, in traditional broadcast media, online and social media. Students will be trained in basic recording and editing.
The aim of this course is to train students in pitching story ideas to editors and to take active part in editorial meetings. Possible stories will be critically discussed, what approach to use, and what information and sources are needed.
This course builds upon what students learn in BLF101G Journalism I with a focus on the written press, print and digital. The aim is to train students further in reporting, writing and structuring news stories, and to explore different genre in journalism, e.g. in-depth stories, features, interviews, human interest stories. Special attention is given to layout, pictures and visualisation and to content presentation in different kinds of medium. Assignments. Students write news stories and articles for the study program´s online news site, and on occasion for other media.
This course examines how political information spreads through the media and what this information dissemination means for our understanding of politics. The course combines theoretical insights and empirical information from the fields of media studies, political science and journalism. Topics covered in the course include digital politics and communication, how politicians and political parties use social media platforms, the crisis of politics and media in established democracies, mass media and the news production process, political parties and political marketing, election campaigns and politics as entertainment. Various case studies will be used to shed light on the topics under investigation, including how wars are depicted on social media, media reports concerning the Brexit referendum, how Donald Trump has used social media in his communication with the world, media coverage of COVID-19 and recent examples from Icelandic politics. Much of the material for this module is highly contemporary so students are encouraged to maintain an awareness of current developments in political communication through diverse news outlets.
This course introduces students to research on political economy with an emphasis on how the preferences of individuals and groups are transformed into public policies in democracies.We begin with the foundations of rational choice theories as they apply to voting, majority rule, party competition and collective action. Then we go on to analyze some of the key political institutions through which preferences are aggregated in democracies and, in particular, how they can shape incentives and policy outcomes. We will focus on two broad classes of outcomes: Why the size of the welfare state differs between democracies and why some states are economically more successful than others.
Politics are about interactions between people, and as such, inevitably linked to psychology as it is the discipline of people's cognition, motivation, and behavior. In this course we will explore both how psychological factors impact political behavior as well as how political systems may impact people's cognition, emotion, and behavior. We will cover both classic and recent theories in political psychology. Emphasis will be on the following topics: Introduction to political psychology, personality and politics, media and the perception of politicians, ideology and political attitudes, emotions and politics, decision making, intergroup relations, prejudice and violence. Attendance is mandatory and active class participation is required.
The course is intended to introduce students to different theories and subjects within international politics, with a particular emphasis on the changing nature of international politics after the end of the Cold War. The course begins by addressing the nature of the international system, the state and its role within the system. The basic theories of international politics are introduced, as are the main branches within the field, such as international political economy and international security. International organizations, such as the United Nations, and their role are discussed. The latter part of the course is dedicated to the issues of international politics and covers among other things the environment, the role of non-governmental organizations, human rights, and more.
In the course, students are:
1) introduced to the basic theories of international politics, providing them with the basis for understanding contemporary political events
2) trained in analyzing critically concepts and theories relating to globalizations
3) introduced to the relationship between international events and theories of international politics
The aim of this course is to examine fake news, information disorder and politics. Different concepts and definitions of fake news, as well as how they have developed over time, will be analyzed and discussed. What are the possible consequences of fake news and information disorder and to what extent has false and misleading information been used as a strategic tool in political campaigns?
The course examines how false and misleading information is spread, specifically via social media, by whom and for what purposes, and how governments have responded to an increase in false and misleading information. In addition to this, the course examines how third parties have attempted to use fake news to impact elections and public opinion in modern democracies.
This course will also cover the main challenges politicians face today with changes in the media and communication landscape, where the speed and scale of information often limits the time for contemplation and strategies to respond. At the same time, the boundaries between private and public life have been blurred, and news about what politicians say and do can spread to a great number of people in a very short amount of time.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The aim of this course is to train students in pitching story ideas to editors and to take active part in the editorial meetings, and lead the work of others. Students will lead editorial meetings with first year students. Possible stories will be critically discussed, what approach to use, and information and sources needed.
Students take a six week internship at a media company. They work there as a journalist and get acquainted with most aspects of work in an editorial office. At the beginning of the course students will work under guidance to prepare a CV and an application for an internship in the media. Then they do an internship in their chosen media company. At the end of the internship the following should be submitted to the supervisory teacher: A diary written by the student during their internship. The diary should include a weekly summary of main assignments and a reflection on the assignements and the work in in general. The course is not completed until the supervisor has verified the student's attendance and satisfactory results. The internship course concludes with a pass or fail. Students with considerable journalistic experience can apply to the Faculty of Political Science to be exempted from the course. The internship normally takes place in February – March in the spring semester of the last year of study.
The aim of this course is to introduce to students the Icelandic media law and ethics in journalism. Among topics are Freedom of Expression, defamation laws and protection of sources. The Icelandic journalistic code will be discussed, and how it is put in practice in the media. The relationship with and confidentiality of sources will be discussed as well as the news journalist's position vis-à-vis owners and advertisers.
The aim of this course is to train students further in professional journalistic practice and methods. The emphasis is on methods and equipment in gathering, analysing and presenting information and data. Students will be introduced to the Freedom of Information Act and how to use it to get access to information. Students will have an option of specialising, by taking one of the following MOOC courses: Investigative journalism; visualisation of information and data or use of AI in newsrooms. The course will consist partly of short, open online courses for self learning (MOOC), discussions in class lessons.
This course focuses on digital media from multiple perspectives, with an emphasis on social media. It looks at digital media in an historical context and how it has influenced professional media, consumers and users. In the first half main theories will be discussed and explained. In the latter examples of the main features of digital and social media will be explored. It´s relation to traditional media, it´s business model, rules and regulation regarding social media, as well as influences on public debate and people's private life.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to do a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
The class is taught in Icelandic. In this course, students get a chance to hone their writing skills. Students will hand in regular writing assignments where they practise different ways of presenting scholarly work in a creative manner, such as op-eds and creative nonfiction. Students will also write creative texts, such as short stories. Students can use material from their field of study but will also have to face new challenges. Classes will be in the form of lectures, discussions, and workshops. Assessment will be based on regular assignments, self-assessment, a midterm assignment, a final assignment, a portfolio, and attendance and participation. Attendance and participation make up 15% of the grade and is partly mandatory (8 out of 12 workshops). The course is open to all undergraduate students at the University of Iceland but students must themselves make sure that the course can be used for credit in their particular studies.
Online learning:
The course is organized as face-to-face learning but all lectures from teachers will be recorded. This is done to assure better access to the course. Students who do not attend class will listen to the lectures and write short reports. They also turn in assignments otherwise done in class.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to do a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
A core module in journalism. The aim of course is to introduce to students the role and responsibilty of journalism in democratic societies, and provide grounding in journalistic writing and editing skills. The module starts with discussions about the role the media has in democratic societies. Then the emphasis moves on to newswriting. Main concepts and methods of reporting are introduced, such as news values, news gathering, news structure and editing. Furthermore we will focus the presentation of news in different types of media, with an emphasis on online news.
Students write news stories and articles for the study program´s online news site.
The aim of this course is for students to gain an understanding of the role of the media in the communication, development, and protection of the Icelandic language. Students will be trained to write news texts and articles in good Icelandic and to use a variety of authors' aids. They also receive guidance in voice use and appearance. The use of words and concepts in a multicultural and diverse society will also be discussed.
In this course the focus is on the Icelandic media system and its development to the present day. The main characteristics of the Icelandic media system are examined and especially how it interacts with the political and economic systems. The main theories of media systems will be introduced and the development of the Icelandic media system will be put into context with developments in other countries. Among the questions addressed are those of the impact of ownership, competition and convergence on different types of media outlets in Iceland.
The course starts with a general introduction to political science, covering different analytical approaches (e.g. systems approach, functional approach, power approach), decision-making and policy formation (e.g. Simon, Lindblom, Richardson, et al.), comparative government (e.g. the nation state, cleavages, forms of government), political socialization and political culture. The latter part of the course concentrates more heavily on the Icelandic political system, covering the main features of the development of the political system in the 19th and 20th centuries (e.g. nationalism, cleavages, major periods of the politics of independence and modern politics), the constitution, political parties and elections (e.g. development of the franchise and electoral system, participation, party system, organization, voting behaviour), the legislature (Althingi), and the executive (e.g. president, government and the coalition system, the bureaucracy, relations to interest organizations, policy-making and local government).
This course addresses the main topics of gender and diversity studies in the light of critical multiculturalism and the diversity of modern societies. It explores the way in which social variables such as gender, sexuality, ethnicity, religion, disability, age and class differently affects people’s conditions and opportunities. It presents the main ideas of gender and diversity studies, such as gender, essentialism and social constructivism, and explores how social variables are interwoven into people’s lives. The emphasis is on how issues such as gender, multiculturalism, and diversity are related to Icelandic politics and society.
Data er increasingly important for political scientists, whether they are public servants, work in media or business, in social activities or research. Having data literacy and the ability to communicate quantitative information is, therefore, of fundamental importance for political scientists. In this course, students will gain an understanding of data and data analysis with the aim of making them confident and competent users of data. The main focus of the course will be on data visualization, with students being introduced to fundamental principles of how to communiate a variety of data visuallly. Students will gain hands on experience in working with common political science datasets and develop appropriate skills to find, work with, and communicate data with commonly used statistical software package.
The aim of this course is to train students in working with audio and visual media, including podcast and the use of smartphones to produce news. The nature of audio and visual media, their main characteristics, qualities and limitations are discussed. Student will learn to write and structure audio and visual news stories and to make use of the qualities of sound and pictures, in traditional broadcast media, online and social media. Students will be trained in basic recording and editing.
The aim of this course is to train students in pitching story ideas to editors and to take active part in editorial meetings. Possible stories will be critically discussed, what approach to use, and what information and sources are needed.
This course builds upon what students learn in BLF101G Journalism I with a focus on the written press, print and digital. The aim is to train students further in reporting, writing and structuring news stories, and to explore different genre in journalism, e.g. in-depth stories, features, interviews, human interest stories. Special attention is given to layout, pictures and visualisation and to content presentation in different kinds of medium. Assignments. Students write news stories and articles for the study program´s online news site, and on occasion for other media.
This course examines how political information spreads through the media and what this information dissemination means for our understanding of politics. The course combines theoretical insights and empirical information from the fields of media studies, political science and journalism. Topics covered in the course include digital politics and communication, how politicians and political parties use social media platforms, the crisis of politics and media in established democracies, mass media and the news production process, political parties and political marketing, election campaigns and politics as entertainment. Various case studies will be used to shed light on the topics under investigation, including how wars are depicted on social media, media reports concerning the Brexit referendum, how Donald Trump has used social media in his communication with the world, media coverage of COVID-19 and recent examples from Icelandic politics. Much of the material for this module is highly contemporary so students are encouraged to maintain an awareness of current developments in political communication through diverse news outlets.
This course introduces students to research on political economy with an emphasis on how the preferences of individuals and groups are transformed into public policies in democracies.We begin with the foundations of rational choice theories as they apply to voting, majority rule, party competition and collective action. Then we go on to analyze some of the key political institutions through which preferences are aggregated in democracies and, in particular, how they can shape incentives and policy outcomes. We will focus on two broad classes of outcomes: Why the size of the welfare state differs between democracies and why some states are economically more successful than others.
Politics are about interactions between people, and as such, inevitably linked to psychology as it is the discipline of people's cognition, motivation, and behavior. In this course we will explore both how psychological factors impact political behavior as well as how political systems may impact people's cognition, emotion, and behavior. We will cover both classic and recent theories in political psychology. Emphasis will be on the following topics: Introduction to political psychology, personality and politics, media and the perception of politicians, ideology and political attitudes, emotions and politics, decision making, intergroup relations, prejudice and violence. Attendance is mandatory and active class participation is required.
The course is intended to introduce students to different theories and subjects within international politics, with a particular emphasis on the changing nature of international politics after the end of the Cold War. The course begins by addressing the nature of the international system, the state and its role within the system. The basic theories of international politics are introduced, as are the main branches within the field, such as international political economy and international security. International organizations, such as the United Nations, and their role are discussed. The latter part of the course is dedicated to the issues of international politics and covers among other things the environment, the role of non-governmental organizations, human rights, and more.
In the course, students are:
1) introduced to the basic theories of international politics, providing them with the basis for understanding contemporary political events
2) trained in analyzing critically concepts and theories relating to globalizations
3) introduced to the relationship between international events and theories of international politics
The aim of this course is to examine fake news, information disorder and politics. Different concepts and definitions of fake news, as well as how they have developed over time, will be analyzed and discussed. What are the possible consequences of fake news and information disorder and to what extent has false and misleading information been used as a strategic tool in political campaigns?
The course examines how false and misleading information is spread, specifically via social media, by whom and for what purposes, and how governments have responded to an increase in false and misleading information. In addition to this, the course examines how third parties have attempted to use fake news to impact elections and public opinion in modern democracies.
This course will also cover the main challenges politicians face today with changes in the media and communication landscape, where the speed and scale of information often limits the time for contemplation and strategies to respond. At the same time, the boundaries between private and public life have been blurred, and news about what politicians say and do can spread to a great number of people in a very short amount of time.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The aim of this course is to train students in pitching story ideas to editors and to take active part in the editorial meetings, and lead the work of others. Students will lead editorial meetings with first year students. Possible stories will be critically discussed, what approach to use, and information and sources needed.
Students take a six week internship at a media company. They work there as a journalist and get acquainted with most aspects of work in an editorial office. At the beginning of the course students will work under guidance to prepare a CV and an application for an internship in the media. Then they do an internship in their chosen media company. At the end of the internship the following should be submitted to the supervisory teacher: A diary written by the student during their internship. The diary should include a weekly summary of main assignments and a reflection on the assignements and the work in in general. The course is not completed until the supervisor has verified the student's attendance and satisfactory results. The internship course concludes with a pass or fail. Students with considerable journalistic experience can apply to the Faculty of Political Science to be exempted from the course. The internship normally takes place in February – March in the spring semester of the last year of study.
The aim of this course is to introduce to students the Icelandic media law and ethics in journalism. Among topics are Freedom of Expression, defamation laws and protection of sources. The Icelandic journalistic code will be discussed, and how it is put in practice in the media. The relationship with and confidentiality of sources will be discussed as well as the news journalist's position vis-à-vis owners and advertisers.
The aim of this course is to train students further in professional journalistic practice and methods. The emphasis is on methods and equipment in gathering, analysing and presenting information and data. Students will be introduced to the Freedom of Information Act and how to use it to get access to information. Students will have an option of specialising, by taking one of the following MOOC courses: Investigative journalism; visualisation of information and data or use of AI in newsrooms. The course will consist partly of short, open online courses for self learning (MOOC), discussions in class lessons.
This course focuses on digital media from multiple perspectives, with an emphasis on social media. It looks at digital media in an historical context and how it has influenced professional media, consumers and users. In the first half main theories will be discussed and explained. In the latter examples of the main features of digital and social media will be explored. It´s relation to traditional media, it´s business model, rules and regulation regarding social media, as well as influences on public debate and people's private life.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to do a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
The class is taught in Icelandic. In this course, students get a chance to hone their writing skills. Students will hand in regular writing assignments where they practise different ways of presenting scholarly work in a creative manner, such as op-eds and creative nonfiction. Students will also write creative texts, such as short stories. Students can use material from their field of study but will also have to face new challenges. Classes will be in the form of lectures, discussions, and workshops. Assessment will be based on regular assignments, self-assessment, a midterm assignment, a final assignment, a portfolio, and attendance and participation. Attendance and participation make up 15% of the grade and is partly mandatory (8 out of 12 workshops). The course is open to all undergraduate students at the University of Iceland but students must themselves make sure that the course can be used for credit in their particular studies.
Online learning:
The course is organized as face-to-face learning but all lectures from teachers will be recorded. This is done to assure better access to the course. Students who do not attend class will listen to the lectures and write short reports. They also turn in assignments otherwise done in class.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to do a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
A core module in journalism. The aim of course is to introduce to students the role and responsibilty of journalism in democratic societies, and provide grounding in journalistic writing and editing skills. The module starts with discussions about the role the media has in democratic societies. Then the emphasis moves on to newswriting. Main concepts and methods of reporting are introduced, such as news values, news gathering, news structure and editing. Furthermore we will focus the presentation of news in different types of media, with an emphasis on online news.
Students write news stories and articles for the study program´s online news site.
The aim of this course is for students to gain an understanding of the role of the media in the communication, development, and protection of the Icelandic language. Students will be trained to write news texts and articles in good Icelandic and to use a variety of authors' aids. They also receive guidance in voice use and appearance. The use of words and concepts in a multicultural and diverse society will also be discussed.
In this course the focus is on the Icelandic media system and its development to the present day. The main characteristics of the Icelandic media system are examined and especially how it interacts with the political and economic systems. The main theories of media systems will be introduced and the development of the Icelandic media system will be put into context with developments in other countries. Among the questions addressed are those of the impact of ownership, competition and convergence on different types of media outlets in Iceland.
The course starts with a general introduction to political science, covering different analytical approaches (e.g. systems approach, functional approach, power approach), decision-making and policy formation (e.g. Simon, Lindblom, Richardson, et al.), comparative government (e.g. the nation state, cleavages, forms of government), political socialization and political culture. The latter part of the course concentrates more heavily on the Icelandic political system, covering the main features of the development of the political system in the 19th and 20th centuries (e.g. nationalism, cleavages, major periods of the politics of independence and modern politics), the constitution, political parties and elections (e.g. development of the franchise and electoral system, participation, party system, organization, voting behaviour), the legislature (Althingi), and the executive (e.g. president, government and the coalition system, the bureaucracy, relations to interest organizations, policy-making and local government).
This course addresses the main topics of gender and diversity studies in the light of critical multiculturalism and the diversity of modern societies. It explores the way in which social variables such as gender, sexuality, ethnicity, religion, disability, age and class differently affects people’s conditions and opportunities. It presents the main ideas of gender and diversity studies, such as gender, essentialism and social constructivism, and explores how social variables are interwoven into people’s lives. The emphasis is on how issues such as gender, multiculturalism, and diversity are related to Icelandic politics and society.
Data er increasingly important for political scientists, whether they are public servants, work in media or business, in social activities or research. Having data literacy and the ability to communicate quantitative information is, therefore, of fundamental importance for political scientists. In this course, students will gain an understanding of data and data analysis with the aim of making them confident and competent users of data. The main focus of the course will be on data visualization, with students being introduced to fundamental principles of how to communiate a variety of data visuallly. Students will gain hands on experience in working with common political science datasets and develop appropriate skills to find, work with, and communicate data with commonly used statistical software package.
The aim of this course is to train students in working with audio and visual media, including podcast and the use of smartphones to produce news. The nature of audio and visual media, their main characteristics, qualities and limitations are discussed. Student will learn to write and structure audio and visual news stories and to make use of the qualities of sound and pictures, in traditional broadcast media, online and social media. Students will be trained in basic recording and editing.
The aim of this course is to train students in pitching story ideas to editors and to take active part in editorial meetings. Possible stories will be critically discussed, what approach to use, and what information and sources are needed.
This course builds upon what students learn in BLF101G Journalism I with a focus on the written press, print and digital. The aim is to train students further in reporting, writing and structuring news stories, and to explore different genre in journalism, e.g. in-depth stories, features, interviews, human interest stories. Special attention is given to layout, pictures and visualisation and to content presentation in different kinds of medium. Assignments. Students write news stories and articles for the study program´s online news site, and on occasion for other media.
This course examines how political information spreads through the media and what this information dissemination means for our understanding of politics. The course combines theoretical insights and empirical information from the fields of media studies, political science and journalism. Topics covered in the course include digital politics and communication, how politicians and political parties use social media platforms, the crisis of politics and media in established democracies, mass media and the news production process, political parties and political marketing, election campaigns and politics as entertainment. Various case studies will be used to shed light on the topics under investigation, including how wars are depicted on social media, media reports concerning the Brexit referendum, how Donald Trump has used social media in his communication with the world, media coverage of COVID-19 and recent examples from Icelandic politics. Much of the material for this module is highly contemporary so students are encouraged to maintain an awareness of current developments in political communication through diverse news outlets.
This course introduces students to research on political economy with an emphasis on how the preferences of individuals and groups are transformed into public policies in democracies.We begin with the foundations of rational choice theories as they apply to voting, majority rule, party competition and collective action. Then we go on to analyze some of the key political institutions through which preferences are aggregated in democracies and, in particular, how they can shape incentives and policy outcomes. We will focus on two broad classes of outcomes: Why the size of the welfare state differs between democracies and why some states are economically more successful than others.
Politics are about interactions between people, and as such, inevitably linked to psychology as it is the discipline of people's cognition, motivation, and behavior. In this course we will explore both how psychological factors impact political behavior as well as how political systems may impact people's cognition, emotion, and behavior. We will cover both classic and recent theories in political psychology. Emphasis will be on the following topics: Introduction to political psychology, personality and politics, media and the perception of politicians, ideology and political attitudes, emotions and politics, decision making, intergroup relations, prejudice and violence. Attendance is mandatory and active class participation is required.
The course is intended to introduce students to different theories and subjects within international politics, with a particular emphasis on the changing nature of international politics after the end of the Cold War. The course begins by addressing the nature of the international system, the state and its role within the system. The basic theories of international politics are introduced, as are the main branches within the field, such as international political economy and international security. International organizations, such as the United Nations, and their role are discussed. The latter part of the course is dedicated to the issues of international politics and covers among other things the environment, the role of non-governmental organizations, human rights, and more.
In the course, students are:
1) introduced to the basic theories of international politics, providing them with the basis for understanding contemporary political events
2) trained in analyzing critically concepts and theories relating to globalizations
3) introduced to the relationship between international events and theories of international politics
The aim of this course is to examine fake news, information disorder and politics. Different concepts and definitions of fake news, as well as how they have developed over time, will be analyzed and discussed. What are the possible consequences of fake news and information disorder and to what extent has false and misleading information been used as a strategic tool in political campaigns?
The course examines how false and misleading information is spread, specifically via social media, by whom and for what purposes, and how governments have responded to an increase in false and misleading information. In addition to this, the course examines how third parties have attempted to use fake news to impact elections and public opinion in modern democracies.
This course will also cover the main challenges politicians face today with changes in the media and communication landscape, where the speed and scale of information often limits the time for contemplation and strategies to respond. At the same time, the boundaries between private and public life have been blurred, and news about what politicians say and do can spread to a great number of people in a very short amount of time.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The aim of this course is to train students in pitching story ideas to editors and to take active part in the editorial meetings, and lead the work of others. Students will lead editorial meetings with first year students. Possible stories will be critically discussed, what approach to use, and information and sources needed.
Students take a six week internship at a media company. They work there as a journalist and get acquainted with most aspects of work in an editorial office. At the beginning of the course students will work under guidance to prepare a CV and an application for an internship in the media. Then they do an internship in their chosen media company. At the end of the internship the following should be submitted to the supervisory teacher: A diary written by the student during their internship. The diary should include a weekly summary of main assignments and a reflection on the assignements and the work in in general. The course is not completed until the supervisor has verified the student's attendance and satisfactory results. The internship course concludes with a pass or fail. Students with considerable journalistic experience can apply to the Faculty of Political Science to be exempted from the course. The internship normally takes place in February – March in the spring semester of the last year of study.
The aim of this course is to introduce to students the Icelandic media law and ethics in journalism. Among topics are Freedom of Expression, defamation laws and protection of sources. The Icelandic journalistic code will be discussed, and how it is put in practice in the media. The relationship with and confidentiality of sources will be discussed as well as the news journalist's position vis-à-vis owners and advertisers.
The aim of this course is to train students further in professional journalistic practice and methods. The emphasis is on methods and equipment in gathering, analysing and presenting information and data. Students will be introduced to the Freedom of Information Act and how to use it to get access to information. Students will have an option of specialising, by taking one of the following MOOC courses: Investigative journalism; visualisation of information and data or use of AI in newsrooms. The course will consist partly of short, open online courses for self learning (MOOC), discussions in class lessons.
This course focuses on digital media from multiple perspectives, with an emphasis on social media. It looks at digital media in an historical context and how it has influenced professional media, consumers and users. In the first half main theories will be discussed and explained. In the latter examples of the main features of digital and social media will be explored. It´s relation to traditional media, it´s business model, rules and regulation regarding social media, as well as influences on public debate and people's private life.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to do a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
The class is taught in Icelandic. In this course, students get a chance to hone their writing skills. Students will hand in regular writing assignments where they practise different ways of presenting scholarly work in a creative manner, such as op-eds and creative nonfiction. Students will also write creative texts, such as short stories. Students can use material from their field of study but will also have to face new challenges. Classes will be in the form of lectures, discussions, and workshops. Assessment will be based on regular assignments, self-assessment, a midterm assignment, a final assignment, a portfolio, and attendance and participation. Attendance and participation make up 15% of the grade and is partly mandatory (8 out of 12 workshops). The course is open to all undergraduate students at the University of Iceland but students must themselves make sure that the course can be used for credit in their particular studies.
Online learning:
The course is organized as face-to-face learning but all lectures from teachers will be recorded. This is done to assure better access to the course. Students who do not attend class will listen to the lectures and write short reports. They also turn in assignments otherwise done in class.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to do a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
A core module in journalism. The aim of course is to introduce to students the role and responsibilty of journalism in democratic societies, and provide grounding in journalistic writing and editing skills. The module starts with discussions about the role the media has in democratic societies. Then the emphasis moves on to newswriting. Main concepts and methods of reporting are introduced, such as news values, news gathering, news structure and editing. Furthermore we will focus the presentation of news in different types of media, with an emphasis on online news.
Students write news stories and articles for the study program´s online news site.
The aim of this course is for students to gain an understanding of the role of the media in the communication, development, and protection of the Icelandic language. Students will be trained to write news texts and articles in good Icelandic and to use a variety of authors' aids. They also receive guidance in voice use and appearance. The use of words and concepts in a multicultural and diverse society will also be discussed.
In this course the focus is on the Icelandic media system and its development to the present day. The main characteristics of the Icelandic media system are examined and especially how it interacts with the political and economic systems. The main theories of media systems will be introduced and the development of the Icelandic media system will be put into context with developments in other countries. Among the questions addressed are those of the impact of ownership, competition and convergence on different types of media outlets in Iceland.
The course starts with a general introduction to political science, covering different analytical approaches (e.g. systems approach, functional approach, power approach), decision-making and policy formation (e.g. Simon, Lindblom, Richardson, et al.), comparative government (e.g. the nation state, cleavages, forms of government), political socialization and political culture. The latter part of the course concentrates more heavily on the Icelandic political system, covering the main features of the development of the political system in the 19th and 20th centuries (e.g. nationalism, cleavages, major periods of the politics of independence and modern politics), the constitution, political parties and elections (e.g. development of the franchise and electoral system, participation, party system, organization, voting behaviour), the legislature (Althingi), and the executive (e.g. president, government and the coalition system, the bureaucracy, relations to interest organizations, policy-making and local government).
This course addresses the main topics of gender and diversity studies in the light of critical multiculturalism and the diversity of modern societies. It explores the way in which social variables such as gender, sexuality, ethnicity, religion, disability, age and class differently affects people’s conditions and opportunities. It presents the main ideas of gender and diversity studies, such as gender, essentialism and social constructivism, and explores how social variables are interwoven into people’s lives. The emphasis is on how issues such as gender, multiculturalism, and diversity are related to Icelandic politics and society.
Data er increasingly important for political scientists, whether they are public servants, work in media or business, in social activities or research. Having data literacy and the ability to communicate quantitative information is, therefore, of fundamental importance for political scientists. In this course, students will gain an understanding of data and data analysis with the aim of making them confident and competent users of data. The main focus of the course will be on data visualization, with students being introduced to fundamental principles of how to communiate a variety of data visuallly. Students will gain hands on experience in working with common political science datasets and develop appropriate skills to find, work with, and communicate data with commonly used statistical software package.
The aim of this course is to train students in working with audio and visual media, including podcast and the use of smartphones to produce news. The nature of audio and visual media, their main characteristics, qualities and limitations are discussed. Student will learn to write and structure audio and visual news stories and to make use of the qualities of sound and pictures, in traditional broadcast media, online and social media. Students will be trained in basic recording and editing.
The aim of this course is to train students in pitching story ideas to editors and to take active part in editorial meetings. Possible stories will be critically discussed, what approach to use, and what information and sources are needed.
This course builds upon what students learn in BLF101G Journalism I with a focus on the written press, print and digital. The aim is to train students further in reporting, writing and structuring news stories, and to explore different genre in journalism, e.g. in-depth stories, features, interviews, human interest stories. Special attention is given to layout, pictures and visualisation and to content presentation in different kinds of medium. Assignments. Students write news stories and articles for the study program´s online news site, and on occasion for other media.
This course examines how political information spreads through the media and what this information dissemination means for our understanding of politics. The course combines theoretical insights and empirical information from the fields of media studies, political science and journalism. Topics covered in the course include digital politics and communication, how politicians and political parties use social media platforms, the crisis of politics and media in established democracies, mass media and the news production process, political parties and political marketing, election campaigns and politics as entertainment. Various case studies will be used to shed light on the topics under investigation, including how wars are depicted on social media, media reports concerning the Brexit referendum, how Donald Trump has used social media in his communication with the world, media coverage of COVID-19 and recent examples from Icelandic politics. Much of the material for this module is highly contemporary so students are encouraged to maintain an awareness of current developments in political communication through diverse news outlets.
This course introduces students to research on political economy with an emphasis on how the preferences of individuals and groups are transformed into public policies in democracies.We begin with the foundations of rational choice theories as they apply to voting, majority rule, party competition and collective action. Then we go on to analyze some of the key political institutions through which preferences are aggregated in democracies and, in particular, how they can shape incentives and policy outcomes. We will focus on two broad classes of outcomes: Why the size of the welfare state differs between democracies and why some states are economically more successful than others.
Politics are about interactions between people, and as such, inevitably linked to psychology as it is the discipline of people's cognition, motivation, and behavior. In this course we will explore both how psychological factors impact political behavior as well as how political systems may impact people's cognition, emotion, and behavior. We will cover both classic and recent theories in political psychology. Emphasis will be on the following topics: Introduction to political psychology, personality and politics, media and the perception of politicians, ideology and political attitudes, emotions and politics, decision making, intergroup relations, prejudice and violence. Attendance is mandatory and active class participation is required.
The course is intended to introduce students to different theories and subjects within international politics, with a particular emphasis on the changing nature of international politics after the end of the Cold War. The course begins by addressing the nature of the international system, the state and its role within the system. The basic theories of international politics are introduced, as are the main branches within the field, such as international political economy and international security. International organizations, such as the United Nations, and their role are discussed. The latter part of the course is dedicated to the issues of international politics and covers among other things the environment, the role of non-governmental organizations, human rights, and more.
In the course, students are:
1) introduced to the basic theories of international politics, providing them with the basis for understanding contemporary political events
2) trained in analyzing critically concepts and theories relating to globalizations
3) introduced to the relationship between international events and theories of international politics
The aim of this course is to examine fake news, information disorder and politics. Different concepts and definitions of fake news, as well as how they have developed over time, will be analyzed and discussed. What are the possible consequences of fake news and information disorder and to what extent has false and misleading information been used as a strategic tool in political campaigns?
The course examines how false and misleading information is spread, specifically via social media, by whom and for what purposes, and how governments have responded to an increase in false and misleading information. In addition to this, the course examines how third parties have attempted to use fake news to impact elections and public opinion in modern democracies.
This course will also cover the main challenges politicians face today with changes in the media and communication landscape, where the speed and scale of information often limits the time for contemplation and strategies to respond. At the same time, the boundaries between private and public life have been blurred, and news about what politicians say and do can spread to a great number of people in a very short amount of time.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The BA Project is an independent journalist work and a written report about the project. The project shall be produced in accordance with professional journalistic standards and ethics of fairness, accuracy and honesty. The project should display student’s ability to use the qualities of the medium chosen for the project. It can be a in-depth news story/feature for the written press (print or digital), for audio or visual media or multimedia project of some sort. In the accompanied report the student shall describe and explain the choice of subject and medium, the work process, information gathering and choice of sources, point of view and limitations.
The aim of this course is to train students in pitching story ideas to editors and to take active part in the editorial meetings, and lead the work of others. Students will lead editorial meetings with first year students. Possible stories will be critically discussed, what approach to use, and information and sources needed.
Students take a six week internship at a media company. They work there as a journalist and get acquainted with most aspects of work in an editorial office. At the beginning of the course students will work under guidance to prepare a CV and an application for an internship in the media. Then they do an internship in their chosen media company. At the end of the internship the following should be submitted to the supervisory teacher: A diary written by the student during their internship. The diary should include a weekly summary of main assignments and a reflection on the assignements and the work in in general. The course is not completed until the supervisor has verified the student's attendance and satisfactory results. The internship course concludes with a pass or fail. Students with considerable journalistic experience can apply to the Faculty of Political Science to be exempted from the course. The internship normally takes place in February – March in the spring semester of the last year of study.
The aim of this course is to introduce to students the Icelandic media law and ethics in journalism. Among topics are Freedom of Expression, defamation laws and protection of sources. The Icelandic journalistic code will be discussed, and how it is put in practice in the media. The relationship with and confidentiality of sources will be discussed as well as the news journalist's position vis-à-vis owners and advertisers.
The aim of this course is to train students further in professional journalistic practice and methods. The emphasis is on methods and equipment in gathering, analysing and presenting information and data. Students will be introduced to the Freedom of Information Act and how to use it to get access to information. Students will have an option of specialising, by taking one of the following MOOC courses: Investigative journalism; visualisation of information and data or use of AI in newsrooms. The course will consist partly of short, open online courses for self learning (MOOC), discussions in class lessons.
This course focuses on digital media from multiple perspectives, with an emphasis on social media. It looks at digital media in an historical context and how it has influenced professional media, consumers and users. In the first half main theories will be discussed and explained. In the latter examples of the main features of digital and social media will be explored. It´s relation to traditional media, it´s business model, rules and regulation regarding social media, as well as influences on public debate and people's private life.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to do a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
The class is taught in Icelandic. In this course, students get a chance to hone their writing skills. Students will hand in regular writing assignments where they practise different ways of presenting scholarly work in a creative manner, such as op-eds and creative nonfiction. Students will also write creative texts, such as short stories. Students can use material from their field of study but will also have to face new challenges. Classes will be in the form of lectures, discussions, and workshops. Assessment will be based on regular assignments, self-assessment, a midterm assignment, a final assignment, a portfolio, and attendance and participation. Attendance and participation make up 15% of the grade and is partly mandatory (8 out of 12 workshops). The course is open to all undergraduate students at the University of Iceland but students must themselves make sure that the course can be used for credit in their particular studies.
Online learning:
The course is organized as face-to-face learning but all lectures from teachers will be recorded. This is done to assure better access to the course. Students who do not attend class will listen to the lectures and write short reports. They also turn in assignments otherwise done in class.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
Students can either do a journalistic project, about a chosen subject for publication in a media outlet, or to do a research and write an academic essay or report. The work will be done under the supervison of a senior teacher.
Changes may occur for the autumn semester in August and September and for the spring semester in December and January. You will find your final timetable in Ugla when the studies start.
Note! This timetable is not suitable for planning your work schedule if you are a part-time employee.
The University of Iceland collaborates with over 400 universities worldwide. This provides a unique opportunity to pursue part of your studies at an international university thus gaining added experience and fresh insight into your field of study.
Students generally have the opportunity to join an exchange programme, internship, or summer courses. However, exchanges are always subject to faculty approval.
Students have the opportunity to have courses evaluated as part of their studies at the University of Iceland, so their stay does not have to affect the duration of their studies.
A degree in journalism can lead to a wide range of different careers.
An education in this area can open up opportunities in:
This list is not exhaustive.
What interests you?
Follow the path
If you still have questions, feel free to contact us.
The School office offers support to students and lecturers, providing guidance, counselling, and assistance with various matters.
You are welcome to drop by at the office in Gimli or you can book an online meeting in Teams with the staff.
