Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Film and Media Studies offers students an opportunity to examine how moving images shape culture, communication, and artistic expression across the world. Designed for students interested in critical analysis, historical research, and media scholarship, this film and media studies master’s program provides advanced training in the interpretation of film, television, digital media, and emerging screen technologies. Through interdisciplinary coursework and faculty mentorship, students develop the analytical and research skills necessary to understand media’s role in society and to contribute original scholarship in the field.
Our film and media studies master’s program provides a rigorous academic environment where students explore how visual storytelling reflects social, political, and cultural forces. The curriculum encourages students to examine media industries, aesthetic traditions, and global perspectives on cinema and digital media. Students pursuing this degree engage deeply with theory, criticism, and history while also gaining opportunities to study contemporary media practices and technologies.
Students entering this film and media studies master’s program work closely with faculty scholars whose expertise spans international cinema, media history, documentary studies, popular culture, digital media, and critical theory. Small seminars encourage collaborative learning and allow students to explore specialized topics within film and media studies. Coursework emphasizes research methods, scholarly writing, and advanced critical analysis, helping students develop the skills necessary for academic and professional success.
A central component of this film and media studies master’s degree is the opportunity to conduct independent research. Students learn how to frame research questions, analyze visual texts, and situate media works within broader cultural and historical contexts. Many students produce a master’s thesis or comparable research project that demonstrates their ability to contribute original insights to film and media studies scholarship. This research-driven focus distinguishes the program as a rigorous film studies master’s program designed for students who want to pursue advanced scholarly work.
Students pursuing this film and media studies master’s degree also benefit from an interdisciplinary academic environment. Film and media scholarship intersects with fields such as cultural studies, history, literature, communication, and digital humanities. Through this collaborative approach, students develop a deeper understanding of how media operates within broader social systems.
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Graduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Film & Media Studies, MAKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Master’s in Film and Media Studies is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Master’s in Film and Media Studies Learning Outcomes
Students completing the film and media studies master’s program will develop advanced knowledge and research skills in film and media studies. Graduates are expected to:
- Demonstrate advanced understanding of major theories, methods, and debates in film and media studies.
- Conduct independent scholarly research appropriate for a film and media studies master’s program, including identifying research questions, gathering sources, and presenting findings.
- Analyze film, television, and digital media using theoretical and historical frameworks.
- Produce original scholarly writing that contributes to academic discussions.
- Communicate research effectively through presentations, publications, or other professional formats.
- Situate media texts within broader cultural, historical, and political contexts.
What Careers are Possible with a Master’s in Film and Media Studies?
Graduates of a film and media studies master’s program develop analytical, research, and communication skills that can support careers in academia, media industries, and cultural institutions. While some graduates pursue doctoral study after completing a master’s degree in film studies, others apply their expertise in professional fields where media literacy and cultural analysis are valuable. Common career pathways include:
- Media criticism and cultural journalism
- Film and television programming or curation
- Archival and preservation work
- Museum or cultural organization roles
- Media research and analysis
- Publishing and editorial work
- Documentary development and research
Labor market insights from Lightcast show growing demand for professionals with strong research, writing, and media analysis skills—competencies developed through a media studies master’s.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Students enrolled in the film and media studies master’s should review current tuition rates and funding opportunities offered through the university. Many students receive financial support through teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or fellowships.
For more information on tuition rates, financial aid options, and application processes, please visit KU Financial Aid.
Admission Requirements
To apply for the film and media studies master’s program at KU, prospective students must meet the following requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree and transcript from an accredited institution.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher in undergraduate coursework.
- A statement of approximately 500 words describing your interests, training, experience (including teaching experience), academic ability, and goals.
- Three letters of recommendation, two of which should be from your current or former teachers.
- Resume or vitae
- A writing sample (no more than 15 pages) that demonstrates your ability to theorize, analyze, and synthesize scholarly information.
For more detailed admission information, visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Graduate students pursuing a film and media studies master’s benefit from a collaborative intellectual environment that encourages discussion, research, and creative exploration within film and media studies.
Graduate students enroll in a mix of production and studies courses, and as teaching assistants they also collaborate as part of production courses across the department’s soundstage, editing suites, and professional recording studio.
Master’s in Film and Media Studies Sample Courses
The film and media studies master’s program offers a range of graduate courses designed to build theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. Courses include:
- Film and Media Theory
- Problems in Basic Screenwriting
- Problems in Cinematography
- Contemporary Japanese Film
- Intensive Film Project Seminar
For a complete list of courses and additional information, visit the KU Catalog.
Master’s in Film and Media Studies Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Fall 2026
Priority Deadline:January 6.
Final Deadline: February 3.
For more information, please visit KU Film and Media Studies
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.