M.S. in Digital Arts and Science

The Master of Science in Digital Arts and Science at the University of Florida is an innovative interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with advanced skills in digital media, computational techniques, and creative problem-solving. This comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates to excel in a rapidly evolving digital landscape by combining core concepts of computer science, digital arts, data analysis, and emerging technologies. Students in this program have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics including digital media production, interactive media, computer graphics, virtual reality, augmented reality, machine learning, and data visualization. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through rigorous coursework, projects, and research initiatives that foster collaboration among students with diverse backgrounds. Additionally, students can specialize in areas such as digital innovation, multimedia processing, or interactive systems, tailoring their education to align with their career goals. The faculty comprises experts from various disciplines committed to mentoring students and promoting innovative research that addresses real-world challenges. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in digital media industries, technology firms, entertainment, education, and research institutions. They develop a robust portfolio of projects demonstrating their technical proficiency and creative skills. The program also offers opportunities for internships, industry partnerships, and participation in cutting-edge research, ensuring students gain practical experience and professional connections. With facilities equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a collaborative academic environment, the University of Florida provides an ideal setting for students to advance their knowledge and skills in digital arts and science. Upon completing the program, students will hold a competitive edge in the digital economy, capable of leading innovative projects and creating impactful digital content across multiple platforms.

Required Core Courses (6 credits):

• CAP 5705 Computer Graphics
• CAP 5100 Human-computer Interaction

Additional core courses (12 credits):

• CAP 5616 Computer Vision
• CAP 5635 Artificial Intelligence
• CAP 6701 Advanced Computer Graphics
• CAP 6XXX Natural User Interfaces
• 5000 or 6000-level DAS oriented course approved by Advisor
• Up to 3 credits of CIS 6905
• Exclude CIS 6910, 6940

Course and Credit Requirement for Thesis Option or Project in Lieu of Thesis Option:

• 18 CISE graduate core credits.
• 6 master thesis credits (CIS 6971)
• 6 additonal 5000 or 6000-level credits (May include a maximum of 3 credits CIS 6905)

Requirements

• GPA: B for all upper-level courses.
• The majority of our accepted students have an undergraduate degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering, with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.3/4.0.
• GRE: GRE scores will be used in the context of a holistic credential review process. A strong performance is expected. For reference, the past year's averages were: 153 verbal, 164 quantitative, and 317 total (verbal and quantitative.) NOTE: See the most recent Concordance Table, published by ETS, for comparable scores from the older GRE test format. The University of Florida's school code for submission of GRE scores is 5812.
• GRE scores are valid for 5 years only.
• TOEFL: 600 (250 computer-based; 95 internet-based). Please note that Indian students are now REQUIRED to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. Follow the link for a list of countries that are exempt from TOEFL. The University of Florida's school code for submission of TOEFL scores is 5812.
• You may substitute for TOEFL with:
  1. IELTS with a minimum score of 7; or
  2. MELAB with a minimum score of 90.
• Undergraduate Prerequisite Courses or equivalent:
  • Calculus (MAC 2311 & MAC 2312)
  • Statistics (STA 2023 or STA 3032)
  • Introduction to CIS (COP 3504 or COP 3502 & COP 3503)
    (Old CIS 3020 or CIS 3022 & CIS 3023)
  • Applied Discrete Structures (COT 3100)
  • Introduction to Computer Organization (CDA 3101)
  • Data Structures and Algorithms (COP 3530)
  • Operating Systems (COP 4600)

GRE Subject Test and Test of Spoken English (TSE)

With regard to the Advanced GRE Subject Test, although we do not require that this test be taken, it will be taken into account when evaluating your application file. In order to be an unrestricted Teaching Assistant at the University of Florida, a TSE score of 55 or above is required of international students. Although a TSE score is not required in our evaluation for admission, it is considered when making selections for Teaching Assistantships.

Achievement Award Scholarship

The Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering provides some Achievement Award Scholarships to new Master’s students. The amounts are a one-time funding award of $4,500 which is distributed as a partial tuition waiver of $1,500 a semester for up to three semesters. Certain restrictions and criteria apply. There is no application process for this award. Students are automatically considered via submission of their Master’s of engineering admission application. Selected students will be notified accordingly.

The Master of Science in Digital Arts and Science (DAS) at the University of Florida is an interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with advanced skills in digital arts, data science, and interactive media. The program aims to prepare students for careers at the intersection of technology, creativity, and analytical thinking. It focuses on the development of digital content, including virtual environments, multimedia applications, and data-driven visualizations, integrating the latest advancements in computer science, art, and design.

Students in the DAS program are exposed to a rigorous curriculum that combines principles of computer programming, visual design, user experience, and data analysis. The program emphasizes project-based learning, often involving collaborative work that simulates real-world scenarios faced by digital media professionals. Coursework covers topics such as interactive media design, 3D modeling, digital storytelling, machine learning applications in art, and data visualization techniques. Through these courses, students acquire not only technical expertise but also critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills necessary for innovation in digital arts.

The faculty comprises experienced professionals and researchers specializing in digital media, computer graphics, human-computer interaction, and data science. Students have access to state-of-the-art labs and resources, including digital studios, computing clusters, and visualization facilities. The University of Florida also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to work on projects with departments such as Computer & Information Science & Engineering, Fine Arts, and Engineering.

The program is typically structured to be completed within two years of full-time study, with options for part-time enrollment. Students often complete a capstone project or thesis that showcases their mastery of digital art and data science concepts. Graduates of the DAS program are well-prepared for roles in digital content creation, multimedia development, data visualization, interactive design, and related fields. Many alumni work in industries such as gaming, film, advertising, data analytics, and technology startups.

Admissions require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, a portfolio of digital work (for those with artistic backgrounds), and demonstrated proficiency in programming. The program values diverse backgrounds, encouraging applicants from computer science, visual arts, media studies, and other related disciplines. The University of Florida also offers financial aid opportunities and assistantships for qualified students, highlighting its commitment to accessible education.

Overall, the M.S. in Digital Arts and Science at the University of Florida is a comprehensive, forward-looking program that prepares graduates to be leaders in the rapidly evolving fields of digital media and data science, fostering innovation, creativity, and technical excellence.