Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Interactive Media
Majors Overview February 11, 2015Companies have recently increased brand visibility with the help of growing technologies in website design, game development, and social media. Those looking to find work in the interactive media field should formalize their training with bachelor’s degree programs.
Information on Interactive Media Degree Programs
Schools offer various interactive media bachelor’s degree programs in both online and on-site formats. Specific technology and software requirements are entailed in an online program, although students can complete most of the courses through distance learning. Related graphic design programs may be explored by students seeking additional online opportunities.
Students enrolled in four-year interactive media bachelor’s degree programs are taught about design for the Web, flash animation, and media design. They are trained to seek employment as animators and graphic designers. Students enrolled in some programs are prepared to sit the Certified Internet Web Professional Associate Design Specialist Certification examination.
Related Degree Programs
Numerous related bachelor’s degree programs may be pursued by students in subjects such as game design and media art apart from master’s degree programs in interactive media. These programs include:
•Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Animation
•Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Media Arts
•Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Interactive Media
•Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Game Design
•Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Graphic Design
Individuals enrolled in those programs may seek design and animation jobs and may complete the programs online.
Before the Internet became popular, the term “interactive media” was understood as “Choose Your Own Adventure” books or video games. Currently, interactive media applications include a wide array ranging from websites to guided walking tour iPhone applications. Students will simultaneously become adept at telling stories and understanding the preference of humans in interfacing with computers.
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma; communications, visual arts, and math are among recommended subjects.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Interactive Media
Coursework
There are numerous forms of interactive media, including music videos and socially conscious games, customizable for use by a single user on the basis of submitted information. The expanding and constantly-changing nature of technology requires coursework within programs to cover a broad range of topic areas, including:
•Media law
•Scripting languages
•Digital photography
•Web page design
•Computer–human interaction
•Interactive animation
Job and Wage Outlook
In 2010, interactive media and graphic designers were generally categorized together in general (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). A slower than average job growth rate of 7% has been predicted for graphic designers over the 2012 – 2022 decade. Those that possess interactive media skills, such as animation and website design, are expected to have the best job opportunities.
Most of today’s forms of media, such as television, websites, DVDs, computer games, mobile phones, and social networking, intersect with interactive components. Those that are able to produce and envision visually effective animations, effects, or designs and are proficient with technology are qualified to work in art, animation, developer, or design roles.
Continuing Education Choices
Not all programs have game development included; therefore, some graduate programs will allow students to participate in classes with interactive media combined with film and game development. Master of Science (M.S.) or Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) programs are offered. Those that are interested must have a background in interactive media and a bachelor’s degree.
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