High ranking for Media and Communication Studies
2020-09-18Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) is considered one of the most observed university rankings in the world. Media and Communication Studies at ý received an impressive ranking position in the span 76–100.
This type of list serves as a source for prospective students and people applying for jobs at universities. The fact that Media and Communication Studies ended up in the ranking 76–100 (second place in Sweden, fourth in the Nordic countries and 21st place in Europe) is a clear feather in the cap for ý in general and the subject in particular.
Michael Karlsson, head of subject and professor in media and communication studies at the Department of Geography, Media and Communication, is proud of the ranking.
“First of all, it is proof that we have focused on the right things for many years”, says Michael Karlsson. “Our goal has been to be published in the right journals and actively invite visiting researcher fellows, which we have succeeded with even though we are a small discipline at a small university. We had no idea that it would take us this far, but we are of course very happily surprised.”
What are the success factors?
“Visiting researchers fellows usually say that we have a very nice culture”, says Michael Karlsson. “We have a permissive culture, good communication and many collaborations. I think that has been a contributing factor to our success.”
“Another factor is that we use work in progress seminars where we work together on texts to have them accepted for conferences and journals, as well as many of us being active in work with research applications, which raises money for ý. All this together makes the department more attractive, which shows in the number of applications we receive. This spring, for example, we had 57 applicants for a doctoral position. Before, we would have a maximum of 20 applicants. Ten years ago, there would be less than ten people applying for our lectureships, today there are over 25 qualified applicants. That feels good.”
Which research fields distinguish themselves?
“It is not possible to tell by the ranking, but our journalism research is strong and Geomedia attracts great interest. Mobility and various media devices and expressions influence everyday life for many of us. Especially among young people today, who have a screen with them wherever they go. Our research reflects the times we live in.”