Film and Television Cultures

We live in mediatised worlds in which film and television are part of globalised and digitised media industries that are highly dynamic. To understand how contemporary media work one needs advanced familiarity with its cultural forms, knowledge of industry systems and practices as well as historical awareness of media’s pasts. In this Master’s programme in Film and Television Cultures you will explore our dynamic media worlds and learn to think critically about changing industries, technologies and cultures.

Bridging culture and industry

The starting point of this Master’s programme is a strong believe that one needs to combine cultural perspectives with sector-based knowledge of the media industries in order to fully understand dynamic media worlds and prepare oneself for a career therein. You will take courses that provide you with a critical grounding and conceptual understanding of film and television cultures and engage with media organisations and professionals to learn about current debates and trends. Moreover, you will gain knowledge on the ways in which culture and industry influence each other. 

High and low, hybrid and classic

Film and television cultures are characterized by diversity. They span from mainstream and popular culture to niche areas and high-brow art, from serious and engaged content to light entertainment and artistic innovation, from powerful media franchises to community-driven initiatives. In dynamic media worlds these various components interact with each other in complex ways. The programme takes a broad perspective, allowing you to engage with a variety of topics that range from high to low culture and take hybrid as well as classic forms. You will have the opportunity to specialise in your area of interest.  

Language of instruction

The courses in this programme are taught in English, but there are options to write assignments in Dutch.

Why this programme in Utrecht?

After graduation

After completing their studies in Film and Television Cultures, many graduates pursue careers in media industries, media institutions and cultural organizations, for instance by working in production, broadcasting and distribution, for streaming platforms, cinema theatres and festivals, on media education and literacy, or funding and policy.

I chose Utrecht University as it seemed quite oriented to the job market, having many courses dedicated to analysing the film industry mechanics, panel programme's with professionals and good internship connections.