Best Film Studies Doctoral Degree Programs for 2025

Ph.D. in Film and Digital Media

University of California Santa Cruz Division of the Arts

United States of America (USA)

Arts, Film Studies

PhDs (Doctor of Philosophy)

The Ph.D. program in Film and Digital Media challenges the traditionally conceived borders between creative and critical practice. The program enables potential dialogue between creative practice and theoretical knowledge as related forms of intellectual work.

English

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Ph.D. in Rhetoric, Theory and Culture

Michigan Technological University MTU

United States of America (USA)

Communication, Journalism, Humanities, History, Philosophy, Cultural Heritage, Literature, Arts, Fine Arts, Film Studies

PhDs (Doctor of Philosophy)

The shifting technological and media landscape of our globalized world constantly offers up new objects and fresh questions for examination. At Michigan Technological University, we’re training a new breed of scholars who can work across disciplines to grapple with complex cultural realities. Heed the call.

English

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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Performing Arts

Selinus University of Sciences and Literature

Online

United Kingdom, Italy

Arts, Fine Arts, Music, Film Studies

PhDs (Doctor of Philosophy)

A research thesis in this specific field should offer an overview of forms of artistic expression, in particular cinema, theatre, music, dance and visual art. Each student will explore how the performing arts reflect the social, political and religious aspects of many cultures and civilizations. In this programme the candidate, through his thesis, should provide a theoretical exposition of the content and processes inherent in the creative and artistic experience of performance.

English

2 Years

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Doctor of Philosophy in Visual and Performing Arts

The University of Texas at Dallas

United States of America (USA)

Arts, Fine Arts, Music, Film Studies, Design, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, Fashion Design, Photography

PhDs (Doctor of Philosophy)

The Ph.D. in Visual and Performing Arts degree program is designed primarily for individuals who wish to conduct advanced research and to teach at the college level and can lead to a wide variety of non-academic careers as well. Visual and Performing Arts is an interdisciplinary program of study, so students take the majority of their coursework in Visual and Performing Arts courses, but must also take two seminars each in both History of Ideas and Literature.

English

4 Years

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Doctoral Degrees, Film Studies

Doctoral degrees, also known as PhDs, are the highest level of academic achievement. They require original research and the completion of a dissertation. Doctoral programs offer specialized knowledge in a specific field, preparing students for careers in academia, research, or leadership roles in various industries.

Film Studies is an interdisciplinary field that explores the history, theory, and production of cinema. Students analyze films from various perspectives, including cultural, social, and artistic. Through courses in film analysis, production, and criticism, students develop a deep understanding of the medium and its impact on society.

4 Best Film Studies Doctoral Degree Programs for 2025

Ph.D. in Film and Digital Media

Ph.D. in Rhetoric, Theory and Culture

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Performing Arts

Doctor of Philosophy in Visual and Performing Arts

Doctoral Degrees, Film Studies