Study Fee: Click here to view the tuition and subscription options. Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal. Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: Europe: Switzerland GCC: Dubai (UAE) Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level A copy of passport or national ID Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Film Production and Screenwriting

Feb 17
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for experienced filmmakers, producers, screenwriters, creative directors, media scholars, and researchers who seek to advance original knowledge in cinematic arts and storytelling. Positioned at a study level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the third European cycle, the program reflects the highest level of independent research, creative inquiry, and academic excellence within the European Higher Education framework.

The program is structured around seven comprehensive modules to ensure methodological rigor, artistic depth, and industry relevance:

Four research-focused modules dedicated to advanced research methodology, practice-based research in film, narrative analysis, cinematic theory, academic publishing strategies, and dissertation development.
Two general modules strengthening leadership in creative industries, innovation management, intellectual property awareness, film financing strategy, and global production governance.
One specialized module in Film Production and Screenwriting, addressing contemporary themes such as advanced storytelling structures, script development, visual dramaturgy, directing for cinema, production design, digital cinematography, streaming platforms, and evolving audience behavior.

In addition to the modules, participants engage in intensive thesis and research activities under academic supervision, producing original research that bridges theory, creative practice, and industry innovation. Emphasis is placed on critical reflection, artistic experimentation, strategic production planning, and measurable impact within global film ecosystems.

The standard duration of the program is 18+ months. While a minimum study period applies, participants benefit from flexible progression options, allowing them to extend their research timeline in alignment with professional production cycles and creative commitments. This flexibility ensures that research quality, originality, and artistic excellence remain central priorities.

This doctorate study program is ideal for senior filmmakers, executive producers, showrunners, screenwriters, film scholars, creative consultants, and academic professionals who aspire to shape the future of cinematic storytelling and film production through advanced research and thought leadership.