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.

We're looking for people who are critically aware, creatively curious, and connected to the values of MA+P. These values include combining theory and practice, using media for ethical social change, and exploring new ways to tell stories beyond traditional filmmaking.

*Note: All admitted MA+P transfer students are automatically placed on a 3-year course plan. This means that transfer students will enter the sophomore cohort.

Access the Media Arts + Practice B.A. Program SlideRoom Application here.

1. Personal Statement:

   In 100-150 words, tell us why you would like to study the theory and practice of media art and storytelling at USC. The faculty admissions committee will review your statement to get a sense of your critical skills, creativity, self-awareness, intellectual curiosity and future aspirations. So tell us why you think Media Arts + Practice is a good fit for you. What inspires you about making images, videos, sound art, interactive experiences, and entirely new media artforms at the intersection of art, technology, and storytelling? What do you hope your work will inspire in audiences?

2. Portfolio:

   In Media Arts + Practice, we believe that everyone engages with media in different ways and that creative work can take many forms through social media, school assignments, personal work, and everyday creative expression. Please share a link to one example of something you have made, created, organized, designed, written, edited, researched, or shared.

   In 100-150 words, tell us:
   1. What is it?
   2. Why did you choose this example?
   3. What is one creative decision, challenge, or discovery that shaped the work?
   4. What does this piece reveal about how you think, create, communicate, or see the world?

   We are more interested in your process, choices, and perspective than in polished or professional results. You may include a link to a larger portfolio if you have one, but this is not required, and applications will not be evaluated more favorably if you provide a portfolio.