Course content and focus areas
The research-oriented master's program in Theater, Film, and Media Studies focuses on forms of representation in the areas of theater, film, and media. Its subjects include their aesthetic manifestations, theory, history, social and institutional conditions, technical aspects, and modes of impact. The program integrates philosophical, art and cultural theory, historical, sociological, and cultural-economic questions into discipline-specific exploration. It emphasizes a critical-theoretical engagement with artistic and media phenomena and is characterized by a distinctly international orientation.
At the core of the program is the development of the ability to independently and problematically reflect on contemporary forms of representation in theatre, film, and media. This ability is cultivated through an archaeological and genealogical perspective and requires knowledge of the history, structure, and systematics of current forms of theatre, performance, dance, film as both artistic and scientific-technical practices, as well as technical and digital media. The program offers a humanities-based and theoretical education rather than practical artistic training. However, it does enhance sensitivity to artistic methods and strategies.
Unlike programs focused on practical artistic training, this master's program qualifies students for a broad spectrum of activities rather than narrowly defined career paths. It equips students with skills to take on demanding roles in the areas of theater, film, media, cultural mediation, and organization, while also providing a foundation for further academic qualification through doctoral studies.