Contemporary Media Research

The English-speaking Master’s programme Critical Media Studies explores modern and contemporary media forms – from television and cinema to online social media – and how they shape societies, cultures, economics and politics. It encourages critical and interpretative methodologies associated with text analysis, political economy, cultural studies, visual culture and media ethnography. The programme employs approaches, methods and perspectives allowing for diverse media practices in contemporary and global landscapes to be analysed, highlighting issues surrounding class, gender and ethnicity.

Students enrolled in the programme will gain expertise in the analysis of contemporary media production and consumption, while mastering the theoretical tools for reading media representations of different social groups in the wider global context. With a goal of enabling students to develop their critical, analytical and research skills, the programme curriculum includes three required core courses, research seminars, internships, seminar organizing and more than 10 elective courses. The three core courses provide students a comprehensive overview of the critical media studies landscape and include:

• Critical Political Economy of Media
• Text Analysis Analysis
• Culture, Media and Research

Several courses and classes are designed and taught by guest lecturers from leading universities abroad. Finally, students are encouraged to design and develop their own research projects under the guidance of experts in the field.

Graduates of the programme will be well suited for careers in media or cultural institutions, academia, and the government sector, including as it relates to content creation, consulting, and directing in media and cultural organizations.

Admission to the Master's programme in Critical Media Studies is based on the results of a portfolio competition. Prospective students must submit the following materials to be considered:

• CV
• Personal statement
• Research statement
• Academic references

Instruction takes place in English, and knowledge of Russian language is not required. Applicants with an undergraduate degree from an internationally accredited university are considered, and priority is given to those with background in media and communication studies, journalism, design, cultural studies, critical theory, anthropology, art theory and adjacent disciplines.

More information about the application process can be found here.