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.) Accelerated option available | 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.) |
Emerging Media Community in Action
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Explore Digital Storytelling & Interactive Design
Podcasting, social media, virtual reality, and data science exemplify innovative technologies that offer vast opportunities, reshaping the future of communication in our increasingly digital world. To prepare both new entrants to the workforce and those already in it, Rutgers Graduate School-Camden is offering two new degree programs: a Master of Arts (M.A.) and a Master… continue reading
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Experimental Gaming Meets Critical Theory
Deep in the intersection of digital storytelling and critical theory,… continue reading
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History, Culture, & Society Through Film
Documentary filmmaking isn’t just about capturing reality—it’s about transforming how… continue reading
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Digital Discovery in a Century-Old Camden Library
Tucked inside a century-old library at Rutgers-Camden, a groundbreaking program… continue reading
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Teaching, Research, & the Power of Play
From poetry slams to Arthurian board games, storytelling has always… continue reading
Featured Courses
View the list of Course Descriptions.
CREATIVE CODING (56:209:530)
Hands-on intro to programming using Unity3D, C#, Processing, and JavaScript. Explore computer logic and code as a tool for expression, abstraction, and narrative.
MOTION DESIGN & ANIMATION
(56:209:640)
Explore animation with Adobe After Effects. Learn motion graphics and storytelling to create animations for film, web, and media. Hands-on projects build your portfolio.
AI ETHICS & LAW (56:200:519)
Explore ethical and legal issues in AI, from foundational algorithms to deep learning. Topics include chatbots, translation, self-driving cars, and general AI theory.
DOCUMENTARY STORYTELLING (56:209:510)
Learn to craft compelling nonfiction stories across mediums. Explore ethics, structure, and style while creating your own short documentaries from idea to edit.
INTERACTIVE MUSIC & MEDIA (56:209:591)
Explore digital sound synthesis through flowcharting, programming, and instrument design using CSound, Max/MSP/Jitter, and SuperCollider in hands-on projects.
WEIRD BOOKS (56:209:630)
Study experimental novels that challenge narrative and physical form. Explore how authors and artists distort structure to rethink what a book is and how it works.
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. – July 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
* Applications are being reviewed through July 15 for domestic students and for international students currently in the U.S. Anyone with questions or concerns is encouraged to contact Assistant Dean Erick Watt-Udogu at erick.watt.udogu@camden.rutgers.edu or (856) 225-6149.
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
Holly V. Blackford Humes
Graduate Director
blackfor@camden.rutgers.edu
(856) 225-6310
GRADUATE SCHOOL CONTACT
Erick E. Watt-Udogu
Assistant Dean, Graduate School-Camden
erick.watt.udogu@camden.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.