International broadcaster DW has commenced applications for its 18-month paid journalism program, considered one of the most prestigious of its kind in Germany. The DW Traineeship will start in January 2027 and end in June 2028.
The program covers a range of fields and skills, such as TV-moderation, multimedia storytelling, data journalism and working with AI tools. The topics would be explored in seminars and workshops at DW’s editorial offices in Bonn and Berlin, along with our regional bureaus across the globe.
Application process
To qualify for one of the 12 coveted spots, applicants must complete a multi-level application process, submit creative ideas and take part in an online assessment.
For the traineeship, DW is looking for open-minded and critical-thinking individuals with a background in journalism, or who are passionate about switching to journalism from law, economics, science or technology/IT.
The application period for the 2027 international traineeship is open from October 13, 2025 (12 p.m. CEST) to November 17, 2025 (12 p.m. CET). Applications have to be made online only within the given timeframe, using the application link .
Applications must be made online only within the given timeframe. The application link will only be activated during this period! Please do not send us any application documents by e-mail! These will not be processed.
Training Benefits
We are looking for creative minds who reflect language and cultural diversity and who have something to say.
Requirements
- acquisition of journalism skills
- seminars on all relevant journalism topics, conducted by renowned trainers
- placements with various DW editorial departments in Bonn and Berlin as well as in one of our foreign bureaus in Brussels, Washington, Jakarta, Jerusalem, Riga or Dheli.
- introduction to producing your own content for TV, radio or online formats, from generating ideas to technical production
- placements in Germany, Europe and worldwide
- technical know-how for TV, radio and online
- Trainee’s salary
- after traineeship completion, prospect of ongoing contract working for DW worldwide
Qualifications
- native speaker of one of DW’s languages with excellent English and good German language skills, or native English speaker with good German language skills, or native German speaker with excellent English language skills
- completed university degree, college degree or apprenticeship
(especially with a background in technology/IT, science, politics, economics or law) - But we are also looking for applicants from other fields, whether you are an IT specialist, lawyer, physician, mathematician, nurse, chef, pilot, football player or referee.
- initial journalistic experience
- creative mind
- social media expertise
- ability to work under deadlines and as part of a team
Benefits
- Transmission of journalistic knowledge and skills
- Seminars on all relevant journalistic topics with renowned trainers
- Insights and work in various DW editorial offices in Bonn and Berlin as well as in the
- DW field studios in Washington, Brussels, Riga, Delhi and Jakarta.
- Guidance on creating your own journalistic products for TV, radio or online, from brainstorming to technical implementation
- technical know-how in the TV, radio and the online sector
- various editorial positions in Germany, Europe and worldwide
- the secure prospect of working for DW worldwide as a journalist in a permanent position
- a performance-related salary
- inspiring and challenging tasks in a modern and international media company
- an organizational culture characterized by New Work and Digital Leadership & Collaboration
- Promotion of diversity, inclusion and sustainability
- individual development
- flexible working time models
- excellent company catering
- Convenient location and discounted public transportation tickets
- Excellent company catering and modern multifunctional areas
- Wide range of company sports and health management
