Communication and media research is analysed in this study as a 'hegemonic apparatus', or a terrain of conflicting forces and organisation forms upon with social, cultural and political projects and values are produced, criticised and challenged. Drawing upon a series of detailed reports covering communication and media research internationally, from Germany, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Finland, Estonia, the USA, Australia, Japan and South Korea, the study provides a global overview of the contemporary situation and assesses future challenges and opportunities. Key information includes university departments, professorships and research centres, doctoral studies, gender relations, research funding, internationalisation and publishing and the impact of university reform.