Media Arts + Practice (MA+P) is an interdisciplinary storytelling program combining the study of contemporary digital media with hands-on production and research. Students learn to create experiences across several different platforms: still images, text, audio, video, interactivity, web-based interfaces, social media, mobile environments and physical computing. The curriculum focuses heavily on the exploration of emerging genres such as virtual reality, stereoscopy, transmedia storytelling and interactive performance. Core critical themes include data visualization, social change, remix, public interactivity, design fiction and worldbuilding. View the Media Arts + Practice website here.
The faculty admissions committee seeks students who share an excitement about the creative potential of emerging technologies, especially with regard to storytelling and narrative design. Applicants do not need extensive digital media experience — instead, their academic records and application materials should demonstrate strong critical thinking and writing skills; a creative and socially aware mindset; and a desire to experiment with new tools and platforms. There are no admission interviews. By limiting the evaluation to the items listed, the committee ensures that all applicants are judged by the same criteria.
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Image Essay (Must be uploaded in PDF format only)
Create an image that effectively communicates your thoughts about a global issue facing society that is relevant to you or your community. It can be analog, digital or a combination - incorporating drawing, painting, photograph, collage, etc. - and can include both text and graphic components. You may use any software application to help create the image. (5MB maximum)
Along with your image, please upload a written reflection (200 words maximum) on the image that you created, analyzing your creative process. How do your design choices communicate your intended message? (Please note: any design components that were borrowed from someone else should also be cited in your written reflection.)
- Aspirational Portfolio (Must be uploaded in PDF format only)
Please curate a collection of three media projects (not made by you) that inspire your creative work. You may find these projects by perusing online media archives, digital magazines or journals, news sites, arts and culture publications, streaming platforms, museum catalogues, etc. This collection should represent what you hope your own portfolio will look like in 5-10 years.
For each selection, include the direct link to where you found the project, and a short paragraph (200 word maximum) that critically engages with the work and explains why you consider the piece to be inspirational. Then write a summary paragraph (200 word maximum) thinking through the connections between the three works that you selected.
- Audio Portrait
Create a one-minute, audio-only recording (.mp3 file only) to introduce yourself to the admissions committee. This is an opportunity to present any information that isn't already apparent in your other application materials. Who are you? What are you passionate about? How will the Media Arts and Practice major help you reach your goals? Your recording may be a spoken narrative (whether you use your own voice or not), and you may include music and/or other sound effects as needed. As with the image essay, any borrowed assets should be cited. (10MB maximum)