The defining aspect of the profile of the Department of Book Studies in Leipzig lies in its interconnectivity of training in theoretical, economic-practical and historical aspects of book publishing. Its integration in the course of study of the Media and Communication Department allows for the investigation of the specific qualities of the book in a comparative media environment. Undergraduates (B.A. students) will learn the basics of all media (i.e., newspaper, book, television, radio). At the beginning of the postgraduate studies (M.A.) and after the successful completion of the B.A. course, students have the opportunity to specialize in Book Studies.

Areas of academic research & training

The department comprises three major fields:

1. The History of the Book (book production, book distributors, history of reading, book history as cultural history)
2. Book Economics (calculation, marketing, management, copyright)
3. Book Theory within the scope of a comparative media theory

The research focus lies in the study of historical and contemporary book trade and publishing companies. Our branched course of study rigorously prepares students for their employment in publishing companies (editorial office, PR/marketing, sales and distribution) as well as for elevated positions in the distributing book trade. Owing to our intensive connection with the publishing and media industry, we achieve a high placement rate in the sector.

Homepage: Department of Book Studies