Part of the prestigious Institute for Art Theory and Media Studies, the Department of Film Studies has been hosting various undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate programs since the 1990s. By combining theoretical and practical knowledge, the M.A. program prepares students for jobs in various branches of the cultural/entertainment sector. The program includes two specializations: Film Theory Specialization and Filmmaking Specialization.
The Institute for Art Theory and Media Studies at ELTE was one of the first higher education institutions in Hungary to offer a degree in Film Studies. The MA program allows students to deepen their basic knowledge acquired throughout the BA Program in the field of film history, film analysis, film theory or practical skills. The Film Theory specialization offers general overview on the history and theory of film, as well as critical understanding of the mechanisms and genres of popular film culture, with an emphasis on academic and critical writing. Students can become familiar with the different periods of Hungarian and world film history, the different theoretical approaches of film studies and filmic genres, and develop their skills of reading theoretical texts and interpreting films. During consultations the faculty helps them to develop their research interests and to become committed specialists, who will be capable of pursuing an academic career.
The Filmmaking specialization is operated in cooperation with Budapest Film Academy and provides students up-to-date knowledge of different fields of the moving image industry. They get acquainted with the basic characteristics and writing of film scripts, the mechanisms and requirements of international film production and distribution, and get basic skills in directing, cinematography and editing.