Film and Media Studies University of Otago

Overview

The Film and Media Studies programme at the University of Otago provides a dynamic environment for students to analyse the power of moving images and digital technologies. This course encourages learners to think both critically and creatively about the diverse media landscapes that define our modern world.

Students explore how screen technologies and emerging tools, such as artificial intelligence, influence cultural identity and social power structures. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from the historical foundations of cinema to contemporary global screen cultures and television studies.

Learning at this institution involves a balanced mix of traditional lectures, interactive tutorials, and hands-on creative projects.

Why Film and Media Studies at the University of Otago?

The University of Otago is home to a dedicated Media, Film and Communication programme that brings together passionate lecturers and diverse research perspectives. The institution is known for its distinctive teaching features that blend analytical insight with creative confidence for all students.

The programme is highly flexible, allowing you to combine your interest in media with other disciplines such as marketing, psychology, or history. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates possess a versatile skill set that is highly valued across various professional sectors and industries.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 37380 per year
• National fee: NZD 6938 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Year 1

• Screen Form and Culture
• Media, Power, Society
• Communication Studies

Year 2

• Theory of Film and Media
• Theory of Communication Studies
• Communication Research Methods
• Global Media and Communication
• Cinema of Aotearoa New Zealand
• Writing for the Media
• Crime and the Media
• Television Studio Production

Year 3

• Critical Problems in Film and Media
• Critical Problems in Communication Studies
• Political Economy of Communication
• Communication and the City
• Culture, Politics and Media
• Digital Media and Society
• Contemporary American Cinema

Careers with Film and Media Studies

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse roles within the media industry, including film and television production, journalism, and content creation. The skills gained are also applicable to professional editing and digital platform management in various sectors.

Beyond direct media production, career paths include public relations, marketing, and corporate communications. Many former students find success in archival and curatorial work within cultural institutions, or pursue roles in media policy and government organisations.