Core Modules & Specialisation Modules
First Semester – Core Modules for All Students (LL.M. and MBA)
In the first semester, LL.M. and MBA students take a total of six core modules amounting to 36 ECTS credits. The modules combine legal fundamentals with business and strategic topics from the film and TV industry. Each module concludes with its own examination.
- Markets
- Media Policy
- Development of Digital Content
- Geschäfts-und Erlösmodelle
- Artificial Intelligence and Media
- Economic Framework: Europe, Key Markets
- Market Dynamics, Technologies, Innovations
- Content Creation and Development Basics
- Media Policies
- Public Funding I
- Legal Framework: Europe, Key Markets
- Introduction to Public Law and Civil Law
- Relevant Aspects of Media, Copyright, IP, Entertainment and Tax Law
- Fundamentals of Data and Privacy Protection
- Essentials of Organization and Management
- Resource Management (Teams, Time etc.)
- Fundamentals of Project Management and Quality Assurance
- Lifespan and Exploitation of A/V Works
- Fundamentals of Contract and Licensing Law Contracts Throughout the Value Chain
- International Rights Clearance
- Contract Controlling
- Financing Essentials: Costs and Revenues
- Business and Revenue Models
- Public Funding II
- Corporate and Project Accounting
- Fundamentals of Professional Communication and Business Psychology
- Negotiation and Conflict Management
- Leadership in Creative Companies
- Creative and Transformational Leadership
2nd Semester - Specialisation Modules for MBA Students
In the second semester, MBA students expand their strategic and business management knowledge with a focus on the film and television industry. The programme covers key areas such as corporate strategy, strategic planning, business development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and change management. Students also deepen their understanding of contemporary economics, corporate finance, investments, and M&A from a business perspective. Furthermore, modules on audience, marketing, and sales address content strategy, audience development, and modern sales models, including direct-to-consumer approaches. An elective module allows students to further personalise their studies by choosing from specialised LL.M. offerings.
- Strategic Planning
- Strategy Development, Implementation and Control
- Business Development
- Entrepreneurship in Film & TV
- Managing Innovation
- Change Management
- Contemporary Economics in Film and TV
- Corporate Finance and Investment
- M&A: Business Introduction
- Creative Content Framework
- Marketing Strategies, Tools and Management
- Audience Research, Design and Development
- Distribution (incl. D2C)
A selected module from the LL.M. curriculum (see below)
2nd Semester - Specialisation Modules for LL.M. Students
In the second semester, LL.M. students deepen their legal expertise with a strong focus on European and international business law. The curriculum covers core areas such as European business law, copyright and trademark law, competition law, employment law, and European broadcasting law, as well as key aspects of M&A. Students further develop their practical legal skills in areas such as dispute resolution, contract management, mediation and arbitration, as well as negotiation and conflict management. The programme is complemented by specialised topics in data and technology law, including AI, cyber law, and data protection. An elective module allows students to tailor their studies to their individual interests.
- Business Law in Key Markets
- IP and Trademark Law
- Competition Law
- Procedural Law
- Employment Law
- European Broadcasting Law
- M&A: Legal Introduction
- Contract Execution
- Mediation, Arbitration, Legal Proceedings
- Renegotiation
- Litigation PR
- Negotiation and Conflict Management II
- IT & Cyber Law
- AI: Legal and Ethical Aspects
- VR, AR, emerging technologies
- Data Security and Data Protection Law
A selected module from the MBA curriculum (see above)
Project Module
In the third semester, students work in interdisciplinary teams on practical projects in collaboration with corporate partners or their own employers. The topics are set by the partners and focus on business or legal challenges within the European film and television industry. Throughout the module, students are supported by industry professionals as well as lecturers, with the process structured through kick-off sessions and group presentations.
Master's Thesis
In the fourth semester, students write their master's thesis as part of their chosen programme (LL.M. or MBA). The topic can be freely chosen and is often practice-oriented, with the possibility of integrating the research work into their daily work routine. Each master's thesis is supervised and accompanied by two lecturers.
Study Format
Courses are held in blocks and partly on weekends to enable study alongside work. The majority of the modules take place online, which facilitates access for international professionals. Students can participate in on-site weeks in Potsdam to exchange ideas in person and expand their network. The flexible choice of modules, different study formats, and the possibility of crediting previous academic achievements allow for an optimal balance between work, study, and family. The programme enables students to tailor their studies to their individual needs.
Choice of Degree
During the programme, students choose a specialisation either in the field of law (LL.M.) or in business administration (MBA). Both groups initially take the core modules together before specialising in the second semester. A double degree (LL.M. and MBA) is possible, with previously earned credits from the first degree being recognised. Additional tuition fees apply, and two separate applications are required.
Choice of Company Involvement
Students can choose whether to complete the programme with or without the involvement of a company. In collaboration with a company, the project module is carried out in the workplace, ideally with insights into various departments. Without company involvement, students complete the project module at one of the programme's partner companies.
Choice of Study Intensity
Der Masterstudiengang kann sowohl im Vollzeit- als auch im Teilzeitstudium absolviert werden. Im Vollzeitstudium schließen die Studierenden in vier Semestern ab: Die ersten beiden Semester umfassen die Lehrveranstaltungen, gefolgt vom Projektmodul und der Masterarbeit. Das Teilzeitstudium verlängert das Studium auf sechs Semester mit einem flexiblen, individuell angepassten Stundenplan.
Programme Accreditation
The master's programme is accredited by the University of Potsdam and carries the seal of the German Accreditation Council.
The accreditation certifies, among other things, that the study programmes meet academic standards in content, that the study structures comply with all formal requirements, and that the necessary resources for the implementation of the programmes are available in the form of qualified personnel and adequate equipment.
