Universiteit Leiden

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Film and Photographic Studies (MA)

About the programme

The Film and Photographic Studies programme will equip you with a broad and interdisciplinary knowledge of lens-based media.

Programme structure

You start with two core courses: Contemporary Theories of Film and Photography. You also choose an elective in curating, where you explore how lens-based media are presented and discussed in both academic and professional contexts. 

You follow Media, Art, Theory, which connects film and photography to broader media debates. You complete the programme with a thesis—written or visual—under expert supervision. 

Areas of study

You focus on: 

  • Theories and histories of photography, film and video 
  • Media practices from avant-garde to mainstream 
  • Curating, programming and presenting lens-based media 
  • Media archaeology and digital developments 
  • Photography and film as research tools 

Ali Shobeiri

University Lecturer

Ali Shobeiri

“Being constantly exposed to moving/still images, ranging from YouTube videos and Facebook photos to feature films and official ID photographs, our generation has become ineluctably reliant on visual literacy. In this programme we do not only look at cinematic and photographic images, but also with and through them, aiming to recognise their aesthetic judgements as much as their socio-political agendas.”

Course overview

For a detailed programme, please check the Prospectus.

Please note that this guide applies to the current academic year, which means that the curriculum for next year may slightly differ.

Admission and Application

Want to know if you’re eligible? 

Check the entry requirements