MS in Digital Media

The Master of Science in digital media is a 37-credit program that prepares U.S. and international students for successful careers in the field of digital media (video, audio, desktop publishing, and web technologies). Students should have at least an undergraduate minor in communication or one of its components.

The Master of Science in digital media may be completed in 15 to 18 months. International students are strongly recommended to take 24 months to complete the degree program. The program requires core competencies, supporting competencies, experiential and elective coursework in the communication department, and other selected programs. Two major projects utilizing multiple digital media components, with presentations to the faculty and students of the communication department, are required.

Some program coursework is available online during the late summer; otherwise, students are strongly encouraged to begin the program in the fall semester.

Core Competencies

• Graduate Digital Media
• Cinema Production
• Audio Production
• Visual Communication
• Web Design

Add One Course from the following Options:

• Career and Professional Development
• Graduate Academic Success

Supporting Competencies

• Social, Ethical, Legal, and Management Dimensions
• Leadership Communications
• Communication Law and Ethics
• Intellectual Property
• Social Media
• Legal Environment of Digital Media
• Cross-Cultural Management
• Global Leadership and Team Development

Concentration

Take six credits from the following options:

• Special Topics in Communication
• Applied Topics in Communication
• Special topics in communication Practice & Theory
• Graduate Project I in Digital Media
• Graduate Project II in Digital Media

Note: Students may substitute COMM 687 or other courses as approved by the program director, for the COMM 701 requirement.

Electives

Six credits from courses listed above and not previously used, or as approved by the program director.

Total: 37 credits

Graduate courses

Coursework in the Department of Communication investigates the ways we express ideas — from public speaking to social media to corporate communication.

The program aims to develop professionals who will be able to:

• Explain and apply appropriate technologies and methodologies to help individuals or organizations achieve their goals through the use of digital media.
• Manage the digital media resources of individuals or organizations.
• Anticipate the changing direction of digital media.
• Evaluate and communicate the likely utility of new technologies.
• Live and work as contributing, well-rounded members of society through the ethical application of digital media resources.

In accomplishing these goals, the program will:

• Familiarize students with the technology and skills required to be successful in the field of digital media.
• Provide a hands-on experience that culminates in a practical project.
• Enable students to integrate management skills and ethical perspectives into their study.
• Prepare students for employment in the field of digital media.