An online master’s degree in film and cinema may provide students with the in-depth skills and training needed to explore film, television, and digital media platforms. In these upper-level programs, students may study the history of film cultures, aesthetics involving film, and cinema in its relationship to other types of media. Core coursework may include electives as well as major-specific courses, such as film and society, visual analysis, and electronic culture.

Graduates may either seek entry to upper-level employment or pursue additional education and enroll in a doctoral degree program. Master’s-level graduates may find employment opportunities in entertainment, broadcasting, television, and film.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 5% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

Master’s-level programs in film and cinema may include major-specific courses alongside several electives and may include a dissertation requirement. Students enrolled in these upper-level programs may complete courses in film studies, film genres, and individual directors. Film and cinema degree program courses may include the following:

• Film Theory
• Film History
• Visual Analysis
• Media Industries
• Film and Society
• Film Criticism
• Electronic Culture

Career Options

Graduates of online master’s degree programs in film and cinema may find employment opportunities in television, broadcasting, entertainment, and cinema. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as film and video editors are expected to increase by 5% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Film and Video Editor
• Camera Operator
• Broadcasting Technician
• Multimedia Artist
• Broadcast News Analyst

Continuing Education

Graduates who successfully complete an online master’s degree program in film and cinema, may pursue additional education and enroll in a doctoral-level program in film and cinema. These research-heavy PhD programs may develop students’ analytical skills through digital media tools for teaching and research positions.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook