Overview This executive master’s programme is aimed at professionals and executives already working in the film and TV sector who want to deepen their legal and business expertise. Taught in English and located in Bergholz-Rehbrücke, Germany, the course takes an interdisciplinary approach to the European audiovisual and entertainment markets. It focuses on practical tools and strategies to address industry challenges, foster sustainable development within companies, and support broader market growth across Europe. Students benefit from the input of established academics as well as practicing industry experts and their professional networks.
Structure and options The programme offers both LLM and MBA pathways. All students complete a set of core modules together and then move into specialised coursework during the second half of the programme. Those wishing to obtain both degrees can pursue a double degree (LLM + MBA); work completed for the first degree is credited toward the second, but note that a separate application is required for each degree and additional tuition fees apply.
Entry and application notes
Program format and flexibility
This interdisciplinary master's is delivered in block format with weekend sessions, enabling professionals to continue working while studying. The majority of teaching is online, making the programme accessible to students based abroad, but there are several designated in-person study weeks in Potsdam for intensive classes, networking and face-to-face collaboration. The curriculum allows flexible allocation of individual modules and the possibility to have prior academic or professional achievements recognised, helping students balance work, study and family commitments.
What you'll learn and outcomes
Core teaching develops a practical understanding of both the economic and legal environments that shape the European film and TV sector. You will study how film and TV businesses operate financially and contractually, learn to manage organisations and people, and build skills in leadership, communication and negotiation. Graduates should be able to assess regulatory and commercial risks, structure deals, contribute to strategic decision-making, and apply data/technology law or business-law expertise depending on their chosen track.
Specialisations, applied project and thesis
In semester two students follow either the MBA or LLM pathway, each offering specialised modules and one cross-track elective to broaden perspectives. The programme culminates in a hands-on project in semester three that places students with corporate partners or their own employers on real business or legal challenges in the European film and TV industry. Semester four is reserved for the master’s thesis, allowing a focused research or practice-based dissertation.
Required modules and structure
Semesters 1 & 2 (all students — MBA & LLM)
Semester 2 (MBA students)
Semester 2 (LLM students)
Semester 3 (all students)
Semester 4 (all students)
To apply you must already hold a recognized higher-education diploma worth at least 180 credit points (ECTS) — this is commonly the equivalent of a three-year bachelor’s degree in many countries. If your prior degree uses a different credit system, provide documentation that demonstrates the same level of undergraduate study.
Candidates are expected to have completed at least one year of professional activity following their degree. This requirement shows that applicants bring practical experience to the interdisciplinary study of film business and law.
You must also demonstrate proficiency in English. The programme’s application materials list accepted certificates and required proficiency levels, so prepare to submit an appropriate language credential with your application.
Winter Semester (International)
31 July 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
31 July 2026
Graduates are prepared for leadership and specialist roles across the film and television value chain, including production and distribution companies, rights and licensing departments, legal counsel roles, regulatory bodies, and consultancy firms. The programme’s mix of legal, commercial and leadership training supports transitions into management, business development, rights management, compliance, and strategy roles within the European audiovisual industry.
Practical project work and the network of guest lecturers and corporate partners also help graduates demonstrate applied experience to employers and build professional connections across Europe.
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