Overview

The Film and Media Studies programme at the University of California, Santa Barbara provides a sophisticated academic framework for the study of global moving images. This interdisciplinary curriculum encourages students to explore the intersections of aesthetics, history, and theory within a diverse international context.

The department is recognised for its commitment to humanistic inquiry, allowing scholars to examine media culture from critical and analytical perspectives. Students are supported by a robust academic community, including eighteen core faculty members and fifteen affiliated experts who specialise in a wide range of media disciplines. This extensive network ensures that researchers receive comprehensive mentorship throughout their postgraduate journey.

Why Film and Media Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara?

The institution offers a distinctive teaching environment that prioritises site-specific study and international research. Doctoral candidates are particularly encouraged to incorporate intensive field research into their dissertations, ensuring their work is grounded in real-world contexts. The programme's interdisciplinary nature allows for a broad exploration of media history, moving beyond traditional boundaries to include modern digital and global trends.

Facilities at the university support high-level academic investigation, with dedicated spaces for social sciences and media studies. The presence of numerous affiliated faculty members from various departments enhances the learning experience, providing a multifaceted approach to media analysis. This collaborative atmosphere is ideal for students aiming to develop a versatile and deep understanding of how media shapes society and culture on a global scale.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14430 per year
National fee: USD 14430 per year
Local fee: USD 14430 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a deep dive into the theoretical and historical aspects of the discipline. Modules may include:

Film and Media History
Media Theory
Media Analysis
Aesthetics
Criticism
Global Media Culture

PhD students may also choose to pursue specific interdisciplinary emphases to complement their primary research. These specialised areas include:

Environment and Society
Feminist Studies
Global Studies
Technology and Society

Careers with Film and Media Studies

Graduates from this programme are prepared for high-level roles within academia, research, and the broader media industries. The rigorous focus on critical writing and historical research equips students with the analytical skills necessary for careers in archival work, media consultancy, and cultural journalism. By engaging with complex theoretical frameworks, alumni are well-positioned to lead discussions on the future of global media and its societal impact.

Programme Structure

Courses

History
Theory of Film
Media Practices Around the World
Fiction and Nonfiction Filmmaking
Video Games
Interactive, and Web-based Digital Media Production

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

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IELTS

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Film Studies Media Studies & Mass Media View 258 other Masters in Media Studies & Mass Media in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Online application

Statement of Purpose, Personal Achievements/Contributions, and Resume or CV (submitted in the online application)

Three Letters of Recommendation (submitted online)

Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended (submitted online)

GRE General test scores

A Writing Sample must be submitted in the online application and should demonstrate excellent written ability in an address to film and media studies or a related field that relies on analogous critical, historical and theoretical methods

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Out-of-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Film and Media Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Barbara

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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