University of Pennsylvania

Overview

The PhD in Cinema and Media Studies at the University of Pennsylvania is designed to cultivate advanced scholars equipped to conduct research, teach, and publish in the diverse fields of film and media studies. Students will gain in-depth knowledge through critical, historical, and comparative analyses of cinema and media institutions, preparing them for careers in academia and beyond.

What you'll study

Core areas and example courses may include:

• World Film History to 1945
• World Film History 1945–Present
• Television and New Media
• Non-American Cinema
• Production & Craft of Cinema

The PhD program typically includes:

• Graduate coursework: Students engage in advanced seminars and method-focused classes aimed at enhancing research and analytical skills.
• Research development: Through departmental activities and coursework, students refine their research questions, develop bibliographies, and improve scholarly writing.
• Dissertation: The program culminates in a dissertation that showcases original research in cinema and media studies.

Note: Specific requirements for coursework, electives, and dissertation milestones may vary and should be confirmed with the department’s current guidelines.

Entry requirements

Applicants should prepare the following materials:

• Personal statement (up to 1,000 words).
• All undergraduate and graduate transcripts.
• Three letters of recommendation.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), if applicable.
• Writing samples demonstrating research and analytical abilities.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD program in Cinema and Media Studies are well-prepared for a variety of career paths. Many pursue academic positions, becoming professors or researchers in higher education. Others may find opportunities in film and media production, criticism, curation, and cultural analysis, contributing to both scholarly discourse and industry practices.