DAAD Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst German Academic Exchange Service Homepage / International Programmes [/deutschland/studienangebote/international-programmes/en/] International Programmes in Germany 2018 Master's Programme in Visual Anthropology, Media and Documentary Practices University of Münster Münster Degree Master of Arts in Visual Anthropology, Media and Documentary Practices CONTACT Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster WWU Weiterbildung Course language(s) All courses are held in English. Admission semester Winter semester only Beginning Winter semester Julia Blumberg Königsstraße 47 48143 Münster Tel. +49 (0) 2 51-8 32 17 05 E-mail [mailto:julia.blumberg@uni-muenster.de]» Course website [http://www.wwu-weiterbildung.d e/anthropology]» Programme duration Six semesters (three years) or five semesters (2.5 years) Application deadline 28 April Submit application to WWU Weiterbildung gemeinnützige GmbH Königsstraße 47 48143 Münster Germany Course content In today's globalised world, where media representations shape social and political spheres, a critical understanding of media and (audio-) visual culture is crucial. Media studies, rooted in social anthropology, offer an in-depth approach to analysing the complex connections between media, culture and society. 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. They gain experience in film production, project development, and (audio-) visual installation. 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
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. This includes camera and editing techniques and audio-visual representational strategies rooted in anthropological theory. 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. Moreover, different genres such as autoethnography and ethnofiction will be discussed. 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. Central approaches are narrative strategies combined with anthropological, artistic and technical knowledge. 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. They will learn to analyse these types of media in the context of a social anthropological framework. 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. In these laboratories, students receive insights into the field and practices of sensory and experimental ethnography by performing experimental research trials. Students learn to link and apply audio-visual methods to anthropological research contexts. Module 6: Media Production & Project Development This module functions as a workshop. During this module, students produce an anthropological media product in the form of a filmic or photographic project. Strategies concerning project development, financing, and marketing of products originating from the documentary arts are also considered. 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
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. Educational organisation The Master's programme was designed with working professionals in mind. Distance learning allows students to participate regardless of location. A large part of the programme requires self-study as well as the student's own preparation and review of course material. The programme consists of six semesters, including the Master's thesis and final media project. The first seven modules require students to be present in in Münster. These modules are offered as block courses. Overall, the programme is comprised of 46 days requiring attendance. The Master's programme is structured as follows: First semester Module 1: Audio-Visual and Media Anthropology Module 2: Representation and Narrative Strategies Second semester Module 3: Anthropological Short Film Production Module 4: Media Practice Research Third semester Module 5: Mediation of Human Experience Module 6: Media Production and Project Development Fourth semester Module 7: Project Supervision and Research Colloquium Fifth semester Module 8: Practical Work and Experience Sixth semester Module 9: Fieldwork, Media Project, Final Thesis Study abroad unit(s) A practical phase needs to be carried out in the fifth semester. Students may decide to complete the practical phase abroad. Internships A practical phase of ten weeks is carried out in either a professional area of the cultural media industries or in an area specifically related to a student's final project.
an area specifically related to a student's final project. Students working full-time can decide whether they wish to do the practical phase at this stage or conduct a supervised project within their current organisations. Forms of assessment Written and practical examinations will be undertaken in every module. Module 1: Essay Module 2: Essay & short film Module 3: Essay Module 4: Essay & media ethnography Module 5: Essay Module 6: Essay & film/media project Module 7: Research proposal Module 8: Practical work experience report Module 9: Master's thesis & practical media project For the coursework modules (1-7), credits are based on attendance, active participation, and the passing of a final exam (essays/practical assignments). An essay should always consist of approx. 5,000 words. The research proposal should be six to eight pages and the work experience report should be 12 pages. Students have four weeks to complete the report. In the final module, students write a Master's thesis and create a practical media project (30-40 minutes documentary film or an equivalent media project, e.g. photography project, multimedia exhibition/installation, web-media project). ECTS credits 120 Diploma supplement Yes Course objectives Students who successfully complete the programme are awarded a Master of Arts degree from the University of Münster (Westfälische Wilhelms- Universität Münster). Students can acquire new prospects for the future as part of the Master's programme. The practical and analytical media skills and competences gained in the programme can be used in many and varied ways in both academic and non-academic contexts. They distinguish themselves (in comparison to those acquired in traditional media schools) through the methodical questioning and understanding of comparative cultural and social anthropology. Social anthropological media skills and competences can be used in many ways outside of an academic context. These skills can be useful in social projects (e.g. intercultural communication), NGOs, and international organisations. They can also be used in the culture media industry, artistic projects, and artistic research. The practical work experience and the public exhibition
The practical work experience and the public exhibition at the end of the programme provide students with the opportunity to network and present themselves and their work. The resulting network of students and lecturers and the international orientation of the programme provide an opportunity for students to gain professional prospects not only in German-speaking countries, but also in a global context. Digital Course Module(s) Virtual Classroom Chats with lecturers Description An important platform for the Master's programme is Adobe Connect. This is a multimedia web communication system that enables students to attend courses online and in real-time. Students can upload their own productions and receive support. Lecturers and students can also communicate over this platform. Likewise, the supervision of the Master's thesis can take place over the Adobe Connect platform. Students will have the opportunity to carry out asynchronous textual discourse about a seminar topic or topics with other students and lecturers, receive support for written work and upload and exchange practical media exercises. Digital modules are compulsory elements of the study programme Yes ECTS Points for digital element(s) Yes Tuition fees 10,750 EUR for the entire three-year programme Enrolment fees Social semester fee of 270 EUR per semester, including a semester ticket covering public transport for the greater Münster area and the German federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia Costs of living Approx. 700 EUR per month to cover accommodation, insurance, and personal expenses Language requirements English level B2 pursuant to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) Academic requirements
Academic 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, Diploma, Master) have at least one year of work experience in media production and/or the social sciences or cultural studies prove language skills equivalent to English level B2, pursuant to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) Where to apply WWU Weiterbildung gemeinnützige GmbH Königsstraße 47 48143 Münster Germany Services and support for international students The University of Münster assists international students in their search for suitable accommodation, offers information about cultural activities, and provides general advice about living in Münster. The WWU Weiterbildung is happy to organise leisure activities to support networking. Some examples of this include making dinner reservations at popular Münster restaurants or organising activities such as city tours and museum visits. Students have always welcomed this offer in the past. Accommodation Many students travel from outside the city and require accommodation during the parts of the programme in which attendance is required. The city of Münster has lots to offer by way of accommodation in all price ranges, from a comfortable Westphalia guest house to a sophisticated botique hotel. An overview of accommodation possibilities can be found on the city of Münster website. The WWU Weiterbildung is happy to assist further. The university is able to obtain reductions and discounts at a number prospective accommodations. Course website www.wwu-weiterbildung.de/anthropology [http://www.w wu-weiterbildung.de/anthropology] About the university The University of Münster is one of the most traditional and well-established universities in Germany. The research profile is characterised by a considerable number of research focal points of proven excellence - in the humanities, business administration, law, natural sciences, mathematics and medicine. The University of
sciences, mathematics and medicine. The University of Münster supports top-class research and qualified young researchers in all of those subjects. The aims of the University of Münster in the field of research are closely linked with the university's own commitment to provide a wide range of high-quality courses, including offerings in the area of scientific further education. At the same time, by ensuring that broad research can be carried out, the University of Münster creates a basis for an excellent education. Together with its focus on research and education, scientific executive education represents the core task of the University of Münster. Due to its distinct geographic location, the University of Münster is an important hub for the systematic transformation of scientific knowledge into practice. To date, the Center of Scientific Executive Education offers 16 post-graduate part-time Master's degree courses, numerous seminars, and certificate programmes. By means of targeted advice and support from all departments, the University of Münster facilitates the initiation and performance of scientific executive education programmes. This is specifically realised through partnerships between the public and private sectors. For example, this process is quite advanced in the Faculty of Law due to the foundation of JurGrad in 2002. The foundation of the Center of Scientific Executive Education in 2006 in form of a wholly owned subsidiary was a further important step towards integrating all educational activities for further education under one roof. The participation of all departments across the University of Münster, each with its particular scientific orientation, forms the basis for all executive education offerings. In doing so, it can be ensured that all offerings are in line with the current status of research. Its close relevance to practical issues and strict adherence to interdisciplinarity are further key elements of the Center of Scientific Executive Education. A consistent orientation with regard to the needs and wants of the target group ensures the success of the educational offerings. In line with the principles and objectives of the Center of Scientific Executive Education, the numerous scientific departments of the University of Münster give their ideas to help develop the further educational programmes. Total number of students 44,000 Total percentage of international students 8 % About the city There are three things that first time visitors to Münster
There are three things that first time visitors to Münster notice right away: the beautiful city centre, the large number of bicycles, and the abundance of young people. Since October 2004, Münster has proudly called itself "the world's most liveable city". Münster is home to the Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität (WWU), one of the five largest universities in Germany with about 43,000 students (at least one fifth of the city's entire population). Also striking in Münster is the interesting architectural interplay between the many historic churches and the new buildings - a juxtaposition which has earned Münster the nickname "Rome of the North". The main building of the university is the historic castle in the centre of the city, but additional university buildings are located throughout the entire city. The promenade, a green ring around the old town, encourages bike riding, jogging, and leisurely strolls. The Lake Aasee in the centre of the city is also a popular hangout and ideal for picnicking and sunbathing. Yet Münster has even more to offer; the diverse museums are as attractive as the architectural beauty of the city. There are many options for going out in the evening. The Kreativkai, Münster's rebuilt harbour, has numerous bars, clubs, and discos for all ages. The Kuhviertel, an area of pubs and bars on the edge of the historical old town, is also quite popular among visitors and locals alike. Copy this link: daad.de/go/kr4705