Master in Literature, Visual Culture and Film Studies

Engage in a broadly interdisciplinary study of the relationships between literature, visual culture, and film in contemporary and historical contexts. Gain cutting-edge theoretical insights into intermedial aesthetics and into the philosophy of literature, art, and film. Equip yourself with critical tools for the cultural analysis of contemporary audiovisual, image, and text-based media.

We welcome applicants who wish to explore the possibilities of extending the boundaries of the traditional disciplines in the humanities by focusing their research on the relations between words, still, and moving images both historically and in contemporary culture.

Students also acquire various practical skills – ranging from analysis and problem solving to writing and presenting – which prepare them for diverse career Pathways and enhance their employment opportunities.

Why study with us?

• An interdisciplinary program that is run in collaboration with the Estonian Academy of Arts – the faculty is comprised of renowned experts in literature, art, film, and visual culture.
• Ample opportunities for practical experience through collaborations with major international literary, art, and film festivals in Tallinn – since 2018, our students have been participating in the composition of the program of the Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF). Our other partners include Head read, Artishok, and Estonian Centre for Contemporary Art.
• Seminar-led courses, with an excellent student-to-lecturer ratio, foster an active debating and discussing environment.
• Individual approach – the supportive learning environment encourages students to follow personal research interests from an early stage of studies.
• International study groups – the diverse cultural backgrounds of our students contribute to the spirit of the comparative study of culture.
• A research-centered program creates an ample possibility for further studies at the Ph.D. level.
• Open to applicants from all disciplines in the humanities and social sciences.
• Estonia is the home of many nations.

Study Support Facilities

• The university campus houses a study library. The main university library and The National Library of Estonia are situated within easy reach in the city center. Various electronic databases are available through libraries.
• Tallinn University is home to the archive of the renowned semiotician, Juri Lotman.
• There are many opportunities for the Erasmus exchange.
• Students will have the possibility to both participate in and organize various literary and cultural events held in Tallinn.
• Before applying to the MA program, one can learn more about Tallinn University by taking part in Tallinn Summer School or Tallinn Winter School. Both are 3-week programs running in July and in January, respectively, which combine a wide range of courses with a rich, diverse cultural program and attract participants from all over the world.

Department's networks

• Our main partner for this study program is the Estonian Academy of Arts.