Doctorate

A Master’s program can be followed by doctoral studies, which focus on an independently conducted research project (dissertation) and lead to the doctoral degree (PhD).

It is possible to write a PhD thesis in English. However, to pursue doctoral studies and participate in academic life, candidates must have sufficient knowledge of German.

Doctoral research projects may be accepted from candidates who have completed a Master’s degree in film studies with excellent results. The minimum admission requirement is a Master’s program consisting of 30 credits in film studies and an additional 30 credits for the Master’s thesis on a topic relevant to film studies. An equivalent degree in a closely related field with a liberal arts/cultural studies approach can also be accepted (in this case, the final thesis must also concern a topic relevant to film or media studies). In each case, the decision on admission lies with a professor of the Department of Film Studies.

Procedure: please contact the department office to make an appointment with the respective professor. The following documents are to be submitted prior to the meeting:

• résumé
• copy of Master’s diploma
• letter of motivation
• project outline (3–5 pages)

The general regulations of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences apply. Applicants are not entitled to admission.