Master's Programme in Visual Anthropology, Media and Documentary Practices at University of Münster

About

Media representations shape social and political spheres and a critical understanding of media and (audio-) visual culture is crucial. The Master's programme educates students in theory and practice in the areas of visual anthropology, the documentary arts (film/photography/installation), media culture, and media anthropology. Conceptual and practical knowledge within these areas can be applied in academia, the arts, and culture and media industries. This knowledge can also be applied to social, applied, and educational media projects. Students study the theoretical and practical foundations of visual anthropology. Ultimately, they acquire the necessary skills for producing their own research projects and media outputs. Programme outline: Module 1: Introduction to Audio-Visual and Media Anthropology Students will receive a broad introduction to visual anthropology and media anthropology. They will acquire a basic understanding of the theoretical foundations of visual anthropology and will be introduced to the first practical steps and techniques involved in film production. Module 2: Representation and Narrative Strategies This module centres on narrative strategies and aesthetics. The basics of imagery, image semiotics, and image composition are considered. The module also teaches concepts relating to installation and exhibition. Module 3: Anthropological Short Film Production The focus of this module is on dramaturgic composition and technical competence, as a deeper understanding of both are required for students to ultimately implement their own project ideas. Module 4: Media Practice Research Considering case studies of cinematic, photographic, and other media productions, students cultivate an awareness of the social and political significance of various indigenous media and other cultural media. Module 5: Mediation of Human Experience This module explores theories and methods for experimental and sensory ethnography, which are then tested by students in laboratories. Here, students receive insights into the field and practices of sensory and experimental ethnography by performing experimental research trials. Module 6: Media Production & Project Development This module functions as a workshop. Students produce an anthropological media product in the form of a filmic or photographic project. Module 7: Project Supervision and Research Colloquium Each student begins to contemplate, discuss, and draft ideas for the production of the final media project and written thesis. Module 8: Practical Work and Experience As part of the programme, students must complete a practical phase which can, by agreement, be planned and completed part-time or full-time during the course of the programme. Module 9: Fieldwork, Media Project, Final Thesis & Final Presentation In the final module, each student writes a Master's thesis and creates a media project in the form of a documentary film, photography exhibition, or installation. Immediately following the programme, students are invited to exhibit their work in a public exhibition. Participation is voluntary.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Applicants for the Master's programme "Visual Anthropology, Media and Documentary Practices" must: possess relevant undergraduate or first degree (at least 180 ECTS credit points, e.g., Bachelor's, "Diplom", Master's) have at least one year of work experience in media production and/or the social sciences or cultural studies prove English language skills (see below)