Film and Media
The Film and Media Master of Arts program at Johns Hopkins University offers an interdisciplinary, creatively rich, and critically grounded experience for students looking to engage deeply with visual storytelling in contemporary culture. Spanning sixteen months of full-time, on-campus study, the program explores film theory, media history, production methods, and cultural analysis. Students examine the evolution of moving images across platforms—from cinema to digital media—and develop a critical understanding of how film and media shape societal narratives, identities, and ideologies. Through courses in film theory, media aesthetics, screenwriting, and production techniques, learners build a foundation that is both intellectually rigorous and artistically inspiring.
The curriculum is designed to foster both academic inquiry and creative expression. Students participate in seminars, collaborative workshops, and research-based projects that explore global media trends, film genres, and emerging technologies. The program encourages the synthesis of practice and theory, allowing students to analyze cinematic language while also crafting original work. With access to experienced faculty, media labs, and local arts networks, students are immersed in an environment that values experimentation and cultural reflection. By the end of the program, graduates possess a deep command of film analysis, visual literacy, media critique, and narrative construction, preparing them for dynamic roles in media, academia, and the creative industries.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Film and Media
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 16 months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 20 February 2026
- Location: Johns Hopkins University, United States
- Field of Study: Film Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Film and Media
- Introduction to Film Theory and Criticism
- Global Film History and Aesthetics
- Screenwriting Fundamentals
- Visual Storytelling and Cinematic Language
Semester 2 – Media Culture and Production
- Digital Media and Society
- Documentary Forms and Practice
- Film Production Techniques
- Research Methods in Film and Media
Semester 3 – Advanced Topics and Creative Projects
- Genre Studies and Contemporary Cinema
- Media Industries and Cultural Policy
- Workshop: Narrative Film or Interactive Media
- Project Proposal Development
Semester 4 – Thesis and Portfolio
- Master’s Thesis or Final Creative Project
- Media Theory Seminar
- Professional Development and Industry Engagement
- Capstone Presentation and Critique
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are equipped for diverse careers in the creative, academic, and cultural sectors. Many pursue work as filmmakers, media analysts, screenwriters, or content developers in industries such as film production, broadcasting, streaming platforms, or digital agencies. Others find roles in cultural institutions, film archives, or educational environments where media literacy and critique are essential. The program also provides a strong foundation for those who wish to continue toward doctoral studies in film, media studies, or visual culture. With training in both analysis and creation, graduates can navigate roles that demand critical insight, creative fluency, and cultural awareness in an increasingly media-saturated world.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a rare combination of academic depth and creative flexibility for students passionate about understanding and shaping the role of media in society. Unlike programs that focus solely on production or criticism, it bridges both domains, allowing students to cultivate analytical clarity while developing artistic vision. The sixteen-month format provides immersive training without requiring a multi-year commitment, making it ideal for those eager to accelerate their careers or creative pursuits. Students benefit from close mentorship, exposure to diverse cinematic traditions, and opportunities to collaborate on original projects that reflect both personal voice and cultural relevance. Whether exploring the politics of representation, the evolution of digital storytelling, or the mechanics of visual narration, students engage with ideas and practices that matter in today's media landscape. For individuals seeking to build careers in cinematic storytelling, media research, creative industries, or cultural criticism, this program delivers the intellectual framework, practical tools, and artistic encouragement needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving global media environment.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 410 516 8000
Email: admissions@jhu.edu
Address: Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
