Emerging Media | Digital Studies
(M.A. | M.P.S.)
Welcome to Rutgers-Camden’s M.A. and M.P.S. programs in Emerging Media. Here, students develop practical skills in digital media production, gain fluency in multiple software platforms, and explore the cultural impact of digital media. Through a transdisciplinary approach, students engage in areas such as digital storytelling and interaction design, shaping the future of this rapidly evolving field while also addressing ethical considerations and utilizing research methods.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
The Rutgers-Camden M.A. and M.P.S. in Emerging Media program provides students with an array of opportunities in the rapidly evolving fields of digital media and entertainment. The demand for professionals skilled in creating captivating narratives, transmitting brand messages, and delivering virtual experiences is on the rise. With advanced training in digital design and production software, individuals can secure employment and excel in their respective fields.
The Emerging Media program integrates research and creative expertise from faculty members across disciplines. Rather than separating research and creative activities, the program emphasizes their fusion, equipping students with a diverse skill set that combines research design and execution with media production. By viewing media production as an integral part of the research process, the program prepares students to tackle real-world challenges.
The curriculum focuses on the practical aspects (“how”) and the ethical considerations (“why”) of digital media production. Students learn not only the technical skills required for polished digital projects but also gain a deep understanding of the ethical impact of digital artifacts on society. The program encourages students to explore diverse disciplinary perspectives, melding insights, and research methods to address design and communication challenges using emerging media.
Rutgers-Camden offers two degrees, a Master of Arts (M.A.) and a Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.):
Master of Arts (M.A.)
The M.A. program is a two-year (36 credits) interdisciplinary program, integrating digital production skills and research methods. It prepares students for both academic and non-academic positions.
MASTER OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES (M.P.S.)
The M.P.S. program (30 credits) mirrors the MA program’s first year, emphasizing practical courses. This degree option is for professionals seeking to develop media production skills and build a portfolio, integrating transdisciplinary research and design into their professional work.
Upon program completion, students emerge as adept designers for various digital environments, equipped with a critical vocabulary to appreciate digital media as essential cultural artifacts shaping society. You will master at least four software platforms and build a portfolio that showcases fluency in at least two of these platforms, showcasing your proficiency in media creation.
Program Overview
DETAIL | M.A. | M.P.S. |
|---|---|---|
| DEGREE | Master of Arts (M.A.) | Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) |
| CREDITS | 36 credits | 30 Credits |
| FORMAT | Full-time or part-time, on-campus | Full-time or part-time, on-campus |
| DURATION | Full-time: 4-5 semesters | Full-time: 2 semesters |
| FUNDING | University and Graduate School Funding Available (Partial funding only.) | University and Graduate School Funding Available (Partial funding only.) |
Program in Action
FACULTY STORY
In this article, James Brown, Emerging Media Graduate Director, envisions AI enhancing education but warns of potential drawbacks.
Faculty Gallery
In this video, Robert Emmons Jr., Director of Emerging Media, introduces Judy Malloy’s panel on Social Media Narrative, discussing contemporary practice.
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
Allan Espiritu, Rutgers University’s head of graphic design in Camden, is a renowned Philadelphia-based designer, known for founding GDLOFT.
Course Sequence
Year 1
The M.P.S. (30 credits) and M.A. (36 credits) largely share the same curriculum during the first year, except for the studio courses (M.A. students take the portfolio course in year two). Year one courses provide students in both tracks with a range of production skills and a transdisciplinary approach to design that draws on film production, audio production, computer science, visual communication, and interaction design. Students finish the first year with a portfolio of work that showcases this transdisciplinary design approach.
M.A. YEAR 1
56:209:510 Documentary Storytelling (3 credits)
56:209:520 Audio Production and Design (3 credits)
56:209:530 Creative Coding (3 credits)
56:209:560 Digital Writing (3 credits)
56:209:540 Visual Design (3 credits)
56:209:550 Interaction Design (3 credits)
M.P.S. YEAR 1
56:209:500 Emerging Media for Working Professionals Studio Course (6 credits)
56:209:510 Documentary Storytelling (3 credits)
56:209:520 Audio Production and Design (3 credits)
56:209:530 Creative Coding (3 credits)
56:209:560 Digital Writing (3 credits)
56:209:540 Visual Design (3 credits)
56:209:550 Interaction Design (3 credits)
56:209:560 Portfolio Studio Course (6 credits)
Single-year option available only to full-time MPS students
Year 2
Full-time students in the M.A. in Emerging Media program spend their second year taking two electives (6 credits), two research methods courses (6 credits), and the 6-credit portfolio course.
M.A. YEAR 2
Electives (6 Credits from this list)
56:209:570 Digital Curation (3 credits)
56:209:670 Distant Reading with Text Analysis (3 credits)
56:209:580 Media Archaeology (3 credits)
56:209:590 Electronic Literature (3 credits)
56:209:600 Design Thinking (3 credits)
56:209:610 Human-Computer Interaction (3 credits)
56:209:620 Digital Anthropology (3 credits)
56:209:630 Digital Entrepreneurship (3 credits)
56:209:640 Experimental Emerging Media (3 credits)
56:209:650 Mobile Application Design (3 credits)
56:209:660 User Experience Design (3 credits)
56:209:680 Interactive Sculpture (3 credits)
Research Methods (6 credits from this list)
56:209: XXX Research Methods for Emerging/Digital Media
56:209:XXX Multi-Media Thinking/Coding
Portfolio (6 credits from this list)
56:209:560 Portfolio Studio Course (6 credits)
Admissions Requirements
DETAIL | M.A. | M.P.S. |
|---|---|---|
| TRANSCRIPTS | Official transcripts showing all coursework from undergraduate and graduate schools, demonstrating completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited undergraduate institution | Official transcripts showing all coursework from undergraduate and graduate schools, demonstrating completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited undergraduate institution |
| LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION | Three letters of recommendation | Two letters of recommendation |
| RESUME/CURRICULUM VITAE | A current resumé | A current resumé |
| PERSONAL STATEMENT | A statement regarding the applicant’s personal and professional goals and experience | A statement regarding the applicant’s personal and professional goals and experience |
Application Deadlines
Preference is given to those submitted before the deadline for both decisions and funding opportunities. Applications received after the deadlines will be considered based on available space and budgetary constraints.
Fall
M.A. – MAY 15
M.P.S. – NOT OFFERED
Spring
M.A. OCT 15
M.P.S. – NOT OFFERED
Summer
M.A. – Not Offered
M.P.S. – NOT OFFERED
Reach Out to Us
Let’s begin a conversation about your academic and professional goals. If you have questions regarding the curriculum, faculty, admission criteria, or committee, please feel free to contact the Graduate Program Director. For administrative inquiries concerning the application process, campus, tuition, and fees, reach out to the Graduate School. We are dedicated to assisting you from application to graduation day.
PROGRAM CONTACTS
Dr. James Brown, Jr.
Graduate Director
jim.brown@rutgers.edu
(848) 932-4750
Dr. Claire Stricklin
Graduate Director
cs1871@camden.rutgers.edu
(856) 225-6176
GRADUATE SCHOOL CONTACT
Erick E. Watt-Udogu
Assistant Dean, Graduate School-Camden
erick.watt-udogu@rutgers.edu
(856) 225-6149
Take the Next Step.
We invite you to explore the boundless opportunities that await you here, where a world-class faculty, diverse community, and innovative curriculum converge to nurture your intellect and foster your professional growth. Your future starts with a simple yet significant act – learning more about the exceptional programs we offer. So, why wait? Start your application journey with us, and together, we’ll unlock a future filled with possibilities and endless success.