The BA program in Book and Reading Studies includes modules from the key areas of current and historical research questions in book and reading studies, especially in the areas of production, distribution and reception. The complex problems related to the structure of the book trade and the mechanisms of the book market are analyzed, as well as the intellectual and economic processes that affect the cultural and economic asset that is the book. Emphasis is placed on the radical changes in media which both historically and currently influence the position of the book in the market as well as in society.
In this context, the analysis of media-specific aspects in social and cultural change leads to a classification of problem areas in book and reading studies in larger contexts such as economic, humanities, literary, art and media history. The required interdisciplinary approach is supported by modules with courses on media law and media economics from the departments 03 (Law and Economics) and 02 (Social Sciences, Media, Sports) and by the option to choose a second subject from humanities, media, cultural and social science studies of the Johannes Gutenberg University. In addition to the subject-specific content, the respective academic achievements ensure that key professional qualifications are acquired (including through the "Softskills" module), which can be transferred to other academic and practical fields of activity.
In Book and Reading Studis as a major subject, the modules of the first two semesters serve as the introductory phase, in which students are familiarized with basic book science issues, the most important subject areas and the specialized terminology. Furthermore, the courses teach the handling of book-scientific methods and theories and give insight into the later professional fields is given in order to offer an early orientation. The modules of the advanced phase in the third and fourth semesters cover specific book-scientific topics, which expand on the knowledge of the introductory phase and also introduce students into the medial context of the book. The modules of the in-depth phase continue the media contexts of the book and intensify the critical confrontation with the subject. Furthermore, the handling of the book in a cultural environment is addressed. The required practical module must be completed by the 5th semester if possible and thus guarantees in-depth knowledge of fields of work as well as serving to practice skills relevant to different professions. The supplementary subject Book Studies can be chosen for BA programs in the humanities, cultural studies and social sciences. The three modules (basic module, advanced module, in-depth module) are designed in such a way that they take courses with a focus from the major subject area and build on each other accordingly.
Students' video „Themenvielfalt der Mainzer Bachelorarbeiten" (two graduates report)
Admission Requirements:
General university entrance qualification. Here you can find information about the Studium ohne Abitur.
The module manuals can be found in the right column under "Downloads", as well as the FAQs on the vocational internship and the guidelines for writing the internship report.