Art History and Film Studies
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
| 2027-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Introduction to the Program
The University of Jena offers a unique program in Art History and Film Studies, which delves into the history and theory of visual arts in the Western world, from the early Middle Ages to the present day, as well as film production in a global context. This program is designed for students interested in understanding the original purpose of artworks, the emergence of photography and film as new art forms, and their impact on today's society.
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts
- Supplement to degree: minor in a multi-subject bachelor's programme
- Admission restriction: without admission restriction (without NC)
- Duration: 6 Semesters
- Credits/ECTS: 60
- Teaching language: German
- Tuition fee: None
- Semester contribution: € 305,05
- Start of studies: Winter semester
- Part-time possible: Yes
- Institutions: Faculty of Arts, Institute of Studies in Arts and Culture (section Art History and Film Studies)
Programme Content
The program covers the history and theory of visual arts, including painting, sculpture, architecture, graphics, photography, and film. Students will explore the secrets and mysteries of the art world, discussing topics such as the meaning behind the Mona Lisa's smile and the influence of socio-political events on film production. The program also includes practical content, where students work on projects, exhibitions, publications, and events, gaining practical knowledge for their future careers.
Structure
The program is a multi-subject bachelor's programme, consisting of a major subject worth 120 ECTS credits and a minor subject worth 60 ECTS credits. The standard length of the program is six semesters, with different types of courses offered for each module, including seminars, lectures, and tutorials.
Possible Structure of the Degree Programme
The following table shows the possible structure of the degree program with 'Art History and Film Studies' as the minor subject:
- Semester 1: Introduction to the Visual Arts and Knowledge of Objects (10 ECTS)
- Semester 2: Introduction to Architecture or Introduction to Film, Photography and Media Art (10 ECTS)
- Semester 3: Required elective module: Advanced module I (10 ECTS), Required elective module: Advanced module II (10 ECTS)
- Semester 4: Required elective module*: Advanced module III (10 ECTS)
- Semester 5: Required elective module*: Advanced module IV (10 ECTS)
- Semester 6:
Why Study in Jena?
- Excellent teaching: The Department of Art History and Film Studies manages and catalogues digital images in a state-of-the-art media library, offering students full access to national and international databases.
- Thematic diversity: The Institute of Studies in Arts and Culture covers the entire history of art, from the early Middle Ages to the present day, and explores various art forms.
- Interdisciplinary approach: The Film Aesthetics Colloquium holds presentations and workshops on specific topics, discussing them with international experts.
- A world of possibilities: The University appeals to students and researchers from all over the world, helping to shape Jena's character as a cosmopolitan city.
- Adventures abroad: Students can easily spend a semester abroad through the University's global network of partner universities.
Career Opportunities
The skills acquired during the bachelor's degree will open up career prospects in areas such as:
- Art education and conservation (museums, libraries, archives)
- Preservation of historical monuments
- Art shops and galleries
- Media (publishing, print media, television, radio)
- Adult education
- Public relations
Postgraduate Master's Programmes
The University of Jena offers a Master of Arts in Art History and Film Studies, providing students with the opportunity to further their education and specialize in their field of interest.
Admission Requirements
- University entrance qualification
- Language requirements: Two languages; proof at the latest when registering for the Bachelor's thesis
What Are We Looking for in Prospective Students?
- A special interest in the subjects of classical art history and new media
- Good communication skills (speaking and writing)
- An interest in attending national and international exhibitions
