Computational Media Design

The Bachelor of Arts in Computational Media Design at the University of Calgary offers students an innovative and interdisciplinary education that combines the principles of computer science, design, art, and communication. This program is designed to prepare students for the rapidly evolving digital landscape by developing their skills in interactive media, digital content creation, virtual environments, and user experience design. Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to explore various aspects of media production, programming, visual storytelling, and interface development, enabling them to create compelling digital experiences across multiple platforms.

The curriculum emphasizes a hands-on approach, encouraging students to engage in practical projects that integrate technical expertise with creative expression. Courses cover topics such as programming languages, user-centered design, digital media production, animation, game development, and emerging technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality. Students will also develop strong foundational skills in graphic design, multimedia storytelling, and project management, equipping them for diverse careers in digital media industries.

In addition to technical proficiency, the program fosters critical thinking and collaborative skills, as students often work in teams to develop innovative media projects. They will gain experience in the entire lifecycle of digital media production—from conceptualization and design to implementation and evaluation. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and social impact associated with media creation in a digital society.

Graduates of the Computational Media Design program at the University of Calgary are well-positioned to pursue careers as digital media developers, user experience designers, multimedia artists, game designers, virtual environment creators, or digital content strategists. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to a constantly changing media landscape and to lead innovative projects in a variety of industries such as entertainment, education, advertising, and technology. Through a blend of theoretical understanding and practical application, this program aims to nurture creative, technically skilled professionals capable of shaping the future of digital media.

• Computational Media Design Research Methodology (half-course equivalent).
• One Computer Science graduate-level half-course equivalent.
• One graduate-level half-course equivalent from Art, Environmental Design or Music, and
• Two additional graduate-level half-course equivalents, for a total of five half-course equivalents.
• Additional courses can be required on a case-by-case basis.
•  A Master’s Thesis Proposal.
•  Master's Thesis
•  Master's Thesis Oral Examination

Requirements

• Minimum admission requirement for a Master's in CMD is excellent standing in a four year Bachelor Degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
• Students accepted into this program will have demonstrated an interest in art, music and/or design as well as computer science.
• As part of the admissions process students are asked to submit transcripts from all other programs attended, letters of reference, a statement of research purpose and are encouraged to include a portfolio.
• While applicants from any discipline will be considered, undergraduate degrees in Computer Science, Art, Dance, Drama, Design or Music are favoured. Starting CMD with a background in one area is possible, but background in two areas is preferred.
• For applicants required to provide proof of proficiency in English, a TOEFL score of 600 (paper-based) or 105 (internet-based test), or an IELTS score of 7.5, or a minimum MELAB score of 86 or above is required.
• A single page statement of interest. This is not a proposal but a declaration of interest in interdisciplinary research in art, dance, drama, design or music and computer science.
• Applicants must submit a portfolio that provides up to ten examples of their research and creative work. This may include any combination of academic publications and reports, images, video, audio recordings, musical scores, documentation of installations, and written works. Applicants may provide a URL to portfolio items that cannot be uploaded through the application system.
• A demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary research in art, dance, drama, design or music and computer science.
• A curriculum vitae.

Scholarships

• Starting in September 2014, qualifying CMD students will receive a full CMD scholarship to support their research and creative work.
• The annual scholarship will be equal in value to two full GATs.
• In order to qualify for the CMD scholarship, students need to be in good academic standing, and be actively engaged in their CMD creative work and research, confirmed by both of their supervisors.
• Students who are receiving any other major scholarship ($17,000 or more for one academic year) will not qualify for a CMD scholarship during that year.
• International students will be reimbursed 75% of the visa differential tuition fee.
• The CMD funding financial support will remain limited in its duration: 2 years for qualifying MSc students, and 4 years for PhD students.
• Teaching is a vital and extremely valuable component of the CMD academic experience and all CMD students are strongly encouraged to engage in teaching during their degree. MSc and PhD students who are receiving the CMD scholarships will be required to TA at least one course during their CMD degree (or, in the case of qualifying PhD students, possibly being provided with the opportunity to teach a course as Sessional Instructors).
• Since CMD is not running any undergraduate courses of its own, the assignments of CMD students to GAT or Sessional Instructor positions will occur by carefully aligning the CMD affiliated Departments’ teaching needs with the student skills and wishes and with their supervisors' agreement and support.
• CMD students who are teaching in a specific term will be moved to a GAT funding model for that specific term, or will be hired as Sessional Instructors by one of the affiliated academic Departments, with CMD paying the student with GAT or instructor salary.
• CMD students will be provided with (selective and limited) CMD travel awards – details to follow.

Computational Media Design at the University of Calgary is an innovative interdisciplinary program that combines principles of computer science, design, and media arts to prepare students for a dynamic career in technology-driven creative industries. The program emphasizes the development of skills in digital media production, interactive design, programming, and user experience (UX) design, equipping graduates with the ability to create engaging multimedia content and interactive applications. Students are introduced to a wide array of tools and techniques, including programming languages such as Java, C++, and Python, as well as design software like Adobe Creative Suite. The curriculum often incorporates coursework in visual communication, human-computer interaction, game design, and multimedia storytelling, fostering both technical proficiency and creative expression.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to undertake hands-on projects that simulate real-world challenges faced in the media industry. These projects often involve collaborative work, enabling students to develop teamwork and project management skills essential for their future careers. The program may also include opportunities for internships and co-op placements, allowing students to gain practical industry experience and build professional networks. Additionally, the university’s close connections with local technology firms, media companies, and creative agencies provide pathways for employment and industry partnerships.

Graduates of the Computational Media Design program are well-prepared for various roles such as multimedia developer, user experience designer, game developer, digital media artist, and interactive media specialist. The program's curriculum is designed to adapt to rapidly evolving technology trends, ensuring that students acquire relevant skills for current and future media landscapes. The University of Calgary supports a vibrant community of innovators, offering access to state-of-the-art labs, workshops, and resources that foster experiential learning and creative exploration. Overall, this program provides a comprehensive education in computational media, balancing technical skills with creative and conceptual understanding necessary for success in the digital age.