Online Master of Advanced Study in Film and Media Studies

Earning a Master of Advanced Study in film and media studies allows you to pursue a range of creative, academic, consulting and other media-related roles. In this program, you’ll learn how to analyze, critically consume and communicate through media. Graduates will be prepared for roles in a variety of artistic and professional settings, including film, academia, K-12 education, journalism, publishing, social media and the nonprofit sector.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 01/13/2025


Total classes:

Total classes: 10

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 30

Degree questions, answered

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What is film and media studies?

Film and media studies is a comprehensive approach to learning about media. As a student in this master’s in media studies program, you’ll learn about the history of filmmaking and how it relates to modern digital media and television. You should expect to build analytical and communicative skills that support interpreting, teaching and creating media texts. Overall, this degree creates a deeper understanding of today’s powerful global media culture. 

What type of industries hire master’s in media studies graduates?

Jobs in the entertainment industry and news media are popular among those who complete graduate film programs. However, there are many more options for students with a master’s in film and media studies. Managing a media presence has become a crucial aspect of business, making media departments a necessity. As a professional, you may focus on:

  • Branding.
  • Marketing.
  • Media policy.
  • Research.
  • Social media.
  • Strategy.

What qualities support success in the master’s in media studies program?

If you’re interested in the role of media in society and the relationship between media and culture, this program may be right for you. This degree can also support and further the careers of those who currently work in communications, education, journalism or media criticism. This program aims to help you become an effective communicator and active media consumer, making it appealing to a wide range of students.

While this program supports collaboration with professionals who attended graduate film programs and emphasizes critical consumption and analysis of media, it does not lead to a film production or screenwriting degree.

Does my master's in film and media studies say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Featured master’s in media studies courses

Graduate film programs emphasize courses in film, television and digital media through a range of core and elective studies that examine industry, aesthetics, history and culture. Master of Advanced Study students can also expand their education by participating in online events offered by the department, studying abroad or utilizing internship opportunities. Featured courses include:


What can you do with a master’s in film studies?

Students who complete graduate film programs develop exceptional skills related to analyzing, consuming and communicating through media. Students often hone these skills in the media and entertainment industries and beyond. Career examples include:

Learn from top-tier faculty in film and media studies

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Learn from top-tier faculty in film and media studies

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

How to apply

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

The largest and most diverse college at ASU

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$170 million


in research expenditures in 2022.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

100+


undergraduate degrees.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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