Academic thesis on the Topic Value Chain in the Media Industry

You're nearing the end of your studies and want more than just theory — you want real, hands-on insight into the value streams of the media industry? As a student in a media-focused degree program, you'll get the chance to do exactly that: you'll write your thesis on Value Chain in the Media Industry — examining the current and future revenue structure of media companies across the entire value chain.

TV isn't disappearing — but its economic logic is migrating. What used to be broadcasters, programming, or ad breaks is now re-emerging in fragmented, digital, and often creator-driven ecosystems.

The starting point of your thesis is the historical value creation of TV — from public broadcasting, through free TV and pay TV, to its digital evolution. Building on this, you'll explore how these value-creation dynamics are shifting today into adjacent digital ecosystems.

What you can expect: direct practical relevance and exciting insights into strategic questions facing the media industry. You'll work closely with our experts, gain access to real projects and valuable industry insights — and shape your way of working flexibly to suit your needs.

Sound like your thesis topic? Then send us your CV, current transcript of records, and a short motivation letter — we look forward to meeting you!

Research & Analytical Foundation

• You conduct desk research and in-depth market analysis
• You speak with industry experts and gather insights directly from the field
• You create a status-quo analysis of classic revenue models in the media industry

Strategic Deep-Dive Analysis

• You critically assess the future viability of existing revenue models and develop a suitable analytical framework
• You carry out a value chain analysis to systematically identify, evaluate, and translate new monetization approaches into a commercial model
• You identify trends and future monetization opportunities
• You analyze where, in the new media economy, revenue, margin, customer access, and strategic control will emerge (profit/revenue pools)

Evaluation, Outlook & Deliverables

• You conduct an economic evaluation of the new opportunities and assess their scalability
• You develop scenarios and a well-founded five-year outlook
• You derive concrete actionable recommendations for media companies
• You bring everything together in a scientific thesis and a management presentation

• You are studying Media Economics, Business Administration with a media focus, or a comparable degree program
• You have a strong interest in digital business models
• You work independently and in a structured manner
• You bring a high willingness to learn and a quick grasp of new topics
• You think analytically and strategically
• You enjoy academic/scientific work
• You are confident in your communication and presentation skills
• You have excellent German and English skills, both written and spoken