Cinema and Media Studies
The Cinema and Media Studies Master of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a two-year, full-time graduate degree offering an in-depth exploration of global film history, media theory, and visual culture. Designed for students passionate about critically analyzing cinema, television, and digital media, the program emphasizes both historical and theoretical approaches to screen-based storytelling. Through close readings of cinematic texts, engagement with media industries, and contextual study of cultural and political frameworks, students learn to interpret how visual narratives shape and reflect society.
This interdisciplinary program draws on methods from literature, sociology, art history, and cultural studies, encouraging students to explore how cinema intersects with identity, power, and technology. Learners are supported by expert faculty and access to extensive film archives, research centers, and production facilities. The curriculum also allows room for specialization in areas such as global cinema, media aesthetics, feminist film theory, or new media studies, while offering opportunities to develop academic research or prepare for careers in criticism, education, or cultural institutions.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Cinema and Media Studies
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Film Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Film and Media Theory
- Introduction to Film Theory and Visual Analysis
- History of Global Cinema
- Media Industries and Cultural Production
- Research Methods in Cinema and Cultural Studies
Semester 2 – Aesthetics, Genre, and Identity
- Genre Studies: Documentary, Horror, or Science Fiction
- Media and Identity: Gender, Race, and Representation
- Contemporary Television and Digital Platforms
- Elective: Politics and the Moving Image
Semester 3 – Specialized Topics and Critical Frameworks
- Seminar: Auteur Theory and Directorial Style
- Transnational Media Flows and Global Screen Culture
- Archives, Curation, and Film Preservation
- Directed Study: Individual Research Focus
Semester 4 – Thesis and Professional Development
- Master’s Thesis Research and Writing
- Seminar: Ethics and Criticism in Media Studies
- Public Presentation and Academic Portfolio
- Professional Pathways in Film and Media Careers
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in film criticism, media research, archival curation, festival programming, and media education, working in institutions such as museums, universities, production companies, and nonprofits focused on cultural heritage. Some take on roles as writers, editors, or content analysts for film journals, streaming platforms, or cultural magazines. Others move into media consulting, marketing, or distribution, applying their knowledge of audiences and screen cultures. The program also serves as strong preparation for Ph.D. studies in film and media, cultural studies, or visual communication. In an era where media shape politics, identity, and global narratives, graduates who can critically analyze and contextualize media texts are highly valued across academic, cultural, and creative industries.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding cinema and media in both historical and contemporary contexts. Students benefit from a curriculum that blends rigorous theory with real-world relevance, supported by faculty who are actively contributing to media scholarship and criticism. The two-year format allows for meaningful specialization, extended research, and career development opportunities. With access to screenings, archives, production labs, and guest lectures by filmmakers and critics, students gain a well-rounded academic and cultural experience. Whether you’re planning a career in academia, curating film experiences for the public, or analyzing media trends for global audiences, this program equips you with the critical insight, research expertise, and cultural fluency to succeed in the expanding world of cinema and media.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
