Entertainment Technology

The Entertainment Technology program at Carnegie Mellon University is a comprehensive interdisciplinary degree designed to prepare students for innovative careers in the entertainment industry. Combining elements of engineering, computer science, design, and arts, this program offers a unique educational experience that emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications. Students are introduced to a broad spectrum of topics, including interactive media, virtual and augmented reality, computer graphics, digital storytelling, sound design, and stage technology. The curriculum is built around project-based coursework, collaborative team work, and cutting-edge research, providing students with opportunities to develop technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities essential for modern entertainment productions.

Throughout the program, students work closely with faculty who are experts in fields such as theatrical design, media arts, and interactive entertainment. They gain practical experience through labs, practica, and industry partnerships, which facilitate exposure to professional environments and current industry practices. The program also encourages students to explore emerging technologies like motion capture, real-time rendering, and immersive experiences, positioning graduates to lead innovations in entertainment technology. In addition, students develop strong communication and project management skills necessary for successful careers in a constantly evolving industry. The curriculum supports a flexible approach, allowing students to specialize in areas such as live event production, gaming, digital media, or theatrical design. Graduates from the Entertainment Technology program are well-equipped for careers in entertainment production, technical direction, creative design, research, and development, or for pursuing advanced study in related fields. The program’s integration of technical expertise and artistic practice ensures that students graduate with a comprehensive understanding of entertainment technology, ready to shape the future of entertainment and media industries worldwide.

The Entertainment Technology Center at Carnegie Mellon University offers a unique two-year Master of Entertainment Technology (MET) degree. Through our curriculum, we emphasize leadership, innovation and communication by creating challenging experiences where students learn how to collaborate, experiment, and iterate solutions.

There are three variations to the standard curriculum requirements:

– Integrated Co-Op: during the second year of study (semesters 3 or 4) students can apply for a semester academic co-op with a company.
– Student-Defined Semester: after the first semester of study, students can apply for one student-defined semester of study in Pittsburgh during which they take four courses.
– Accelerated Master’s Program: students accepted into the ETC through an accelerated master’s program from an ETC-approved undergraduate program complete the first semester curriculum, followed by two project course semesters. (CMU CS / NUS CS)

After the first semester, students in good academic standing can apply to study at ETC-SV in California. ETC students can take specific sets of courses to graduate with a concentration in a distinct area of study (game design, themed entertainment or interactive storytelling). Students can do either a co-op or a student-defined semester, but they cannot do both. Students in an accelerated master’s program are not eligible for co-ops, student-defined semesters or concentrations. The varying routes through the MET enable students to make the most of their educational opportunities while they’re at the ETC. The ETC curriculum balances educational goals, professional development, and engaging experiences; as our students learn, work and play.

The application process is completed online and submitted electronically. You do not have to complete the online application process in one sitting. Use your assigned PIN and Password from any computer with an internet connection to access your application as many times as you like. Before proceeding to a new section, click the “Save” button. Once you have completed all the application forms and sections to your satisfaction, submit your application by clicking the “Submit” button at the top of the page. You will be guided through the steps to electronically submit your application to our office. Please note you can only submit your application once.Applicants are fully responsible for completing and submitting their applications on time and in accordance with the following admissions guidelines.

In order for you to have completed the application process, the following materials must be submitted.

1.  A completed online Application

2.  A completed Statement of Purpose, no more than 3 single spaces pages, in which you discuss:

• Part 1: Your objective in pursuing a Master of Entertainment Technology degree, including your career goals and your reasons for choosing to apply to Carnegie Mellon.
• Part 2: Your background in entertainment and/or technology and other fields relevant to your objective. Describe how your academic, industrial or commercial experience prepares you for admission to the ETC¬.
• Part 3: Any additional details you wish to give the Admission Committee, including projects on which you have worked.

3.  Applicants must submit a GRE Test score, OR a Portfolio, OR Both. If submitting the GRE, all test scores must be reported to the ETC directly, by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Please use institution code 2074 when having your scores sent to the ETC.  (You may leave the department code blank.)  Portfolios can be made up of examples of graphic arts, traditional artwork, music, writing, coding, or any other creative medium that highlights your skill set(s). It should include documentation that best represents your talent, abilities and potential.

4.  A $75 application fee payable by credit card. The application fee is non-refundable.

5.  Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your academic or professional qualifications. Recommendation requests are sent directly from the online application system via email to the person writing your recommendation.

6.  TOEFL or IELTS scores, if English is not your native language/mother tongue, official scores should be forwarded to ETC by Educational Testing Service (ETS)  and be no more than two years old.  Please use institution code 2074 when having your scores sent to the ETC.  (You may leave the department code blank.) ibTOEFL Requirements: 92 total

• ibTOEFL Listening Subscore 23
• ibTOEFL Reading Subscore 23
• ibTOEFL Speaking Subscore 23
• ibTOEFL Writing Subscore 23

IELTS minimum 7.

7.  A copy of official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate studies mailed to:

Director of Admissions
Entertainment Technology Center
700 Technology Drive
Pittsburgh PA 15219 USA

8. A admission’s interview after you have submitted your interview.  We will be conducting interviews on site and via Skype.  After your application has been submitted, you will be given further instructions.

The Entertainment Technology program at Carnegie Mellon University offers a comprehensive range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for undergraduate students are assessed annually and can vary depending on the year of study and residency status. For domestic students, the average tuition fee is approximately $60,000 per year, while international students may incur slightly higher costs. In addition to tuition, students should budget for mandatory fees, housing, meals, books, supplies, personal expenses, and health insurance, which can collectively add several thousand dollars to the annual cost of attendance.

Carnegie Mellon University provides a variety of financial aid opportunities, including need-based grants, scholarships, federal and institutional loans, and work-study programs. Merit-based scholarships are awarded to outstanding students based on academic achievement, artistic talent, or other specific criteria, reducing the financial burden for select applicants. Need-based financial aid considers the student's and their family's financial circumstances to determine eligibility for grants and scholarships, often covering a significant portion of tuition and related costs.

The university's Office of Financial Aid offers detailed guidance and assistance to prospective and current students in navigating application procedures for federal aid programs such as Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study. Many students also receive institutional scholarships that do not require repayment and are renewable annually, contingent on maintaining satisfactory academic progress. Private scholarship opportunities are available from external organizations, which students are encouraged to explore and apply for to supplement their funding.

Apart from grants and scholarships, students may choose to finance their education through federal or private loans, which can cover additional expenses such as living costs. Carnegie Mellon also promotes flexible payment options and financial planning services to help students manage their educational expenses efficiently. Additionally, students engaged in employment opportunities on campus can work part-time to offset costs, gaining valuable industry experience alongside their studies.

It is recommended that prospective students begin the financial planning process early to understand all available resources and to complete necessary applications by the specified deadlines. The university's financial aid counselors are available to assist students in creating personalized financial plans, ensuring that cost does not hinder access to the world-class education offered by the Entertainment Technology program.

The Entertainment Technology program at Carnegie Mellon University is a comprehensive interdisciplinary undergraduate degree offered through the School of User Experience and the School of Computer Science. It is designed to prepare students for careers in the entertainment industry, including roles such as game design, virtual reality development, visual effects, immersive media, and interactive storytelling. The program combines coursework in computer science, design, engineering, and fine arts to equip students with both technical skills and creative expertise. Students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies such as motion capture, real-time rendering, computer graphics, and interactive media systems. The curriculum emphasizes collaboration across disciplines, fostering teamwork on complex projects that mimic real-world entertainment production environments. In addition to technical training, students develop skills in narrative development, user experience, and system integration, enabling them to create engaging, innovative entertainment experiences. The program benefits from Carnegie Mellon's strong industry connections and access to state-of-the-art facilities, including labs dedicated to virtual reality, game development, and digital arts. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to enter a competitive entertainment industry workforce, contributing to fields like video game development, film visual effects, theme park attractions, and immersive media experiences. The program also offers opportunities for research, internships, and collaboration with industry leaders, providing students with valuable professional exposure. Overall, Carnegie Mellon's Entertainment Technology program aims to produce versatile professionals capable of pushing the boundaries of entertainment technology and storytelling in the digital age.