This globally focused and interdisciplinary program at Carleton University teaches critical, theoretical and historical approaches to cinema and emerging media. 

Students learn to think analytically and express themselves clearly while developing specialized knowledge about history, aesthetics and film as a social and cultural practice. 

Faculty expertise includes world cinema (e.g. the cinemas of Asia, Africa, Europe, Canada and the United States), film theory and philosophy, film history, documentary film and media, video games and new media, sexuality and gender, and sound studies.

The MA has three streams. All students are admitted to the coursework-only stream and may, during their first semester, apply to do a major research paper or a thesis.

Collaborative specializations in African Studies and Digital Humanities are also available, as is a Graduate Diploma in Curatorial Studies.

The distinguished and internationally recognized faculty are engaged in innovative research with numerous books, articles, grants and awards to their credit.

This program offers a very collegial, supportive and student-friendly atmosphere conducive to success and is committed to student mentorship.

Capital Advantage

Ottawa offers unparalleled access to research materials and opportunities for internships. 

These include the Library and Archives Canada, the Canadian Film Institute, the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of Science & Technology, the Canadian Museum of History and the Ottawa Art Gallery. 

There are also numerous film festivals, filmmaker co-ops, and production companies where students can intern.

• Academic/Official Transcripts
• Language Proficiency (If Applicable)
• Passport or Visa Documents
• Letters of Reference (2 required)
• Statement of Intent (1 required)
• Writing Sample (1 required)

• The minimum requirement for admission to the master's program is a B.A. Honours or the equivalent in film studies or a related discipline with, normally, B+ in the honours subject and B- or higher overall.
• Related disciplines might include mass communication, art history, literature, Canadian studies, women's studies, and history. Successful applicants will be admitted to the Coursework stream, with the option of applying to be transferred to either the Research Essay stream or the Thesis stream at the beginning of the second term.
• Applicants without a background in film studies may be required to take a maximum of two full credits from designated courses in the undergraduate Film Studies program in addition to their normal M.A. program requirements.