Cinema and Media Studies University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Overview

The Cinema and Media Studies programme at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers a comprehensive exploration of the moving image within a world-renowned department. Students engage with rigorous academic frameworks and practical industry insights to master the complexities of the modern media landscape.

This versatile degree features two distinct pathways tailored to specific career goals. The Professional Track is designed for those seeking to advance within the entertainment sphere, focusing on digital transformation and industry seminars. Meanwhile, the Academic Track serves scholars aiming for university-level teaching or doctoral research through intensive historical and theoretical analysis.

Why Cinema and Media Studies at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)?

Students benefit from the legendary reputation of the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television, which has roots dating back to 1941. The institution is home to world-class faculty and the UCLA Library Film & Television Archive, the largest university-held collection of its kind in the world.

The programme fosters a vibrant intellectual community through the CMS Colloquium, where students participate in screenings and research presentations. Partnerships with organisations like the Geffen Playhouse and the presence of a Cinematographer in Residence provide unique links to the professional entertainment industry.

Facilities at the university support both scholarly and creative endeavours, ensuring students have access to the resources needed for high-level media research. The school’s location in Los Angeles offers an unparalleled environment for studying the history and future of global cinema and digital media.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 36297 per year
• National fee: USD 36297 per year
• Local fee: USD 21115 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Cinema and Media Studies
• Theory and Method
• Historiography: Media, History, and the Archive
• Capstone Seminar
• Professional Internship
• TA Training
• CMS Colloquium

Careers with Cinema and Media Studies

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped for diverse roles across the global media and academic sectors. Those following the professional pathway often secure positions in film and media festival programming, archival management, and curatorial roles within the entertainment arts industry.

The academic track provides a robust foundation for those pursuing careers in academic research and publishing. Many students use this M.A. as a stepping stone to Ph.D. programmes in Cinema and Media Studies or related critical fields, eventually moving into university-level teaching and scholarly leadership.

The university encourages students to undertake professional internships during their residency to build industry connections. These practical experiences, combined with the school's extensive alumni network of industry leaders, help graduates navigate competitive careers in film, television, and digital media.