B.F.A. in New Media Design

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in New Media Design at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a cutting-edge program that blends design, technology, and creativity to develop dynamic digital experiences. This program equips students with the skills to design interactive media for websites, mobile applications, games, and other digital platforms, fostering a strong foundation in both artistic expression and technical expertise.

STEM-designated: As a STEM-designated program, the B.F.A. in New Media Design provides students with an education that combines critical design thinking and technical proficiency, preparing them for roles that integrate creativity with technology. This designation also opens pathways for international students to extend work opportunities in the U.S. through optional practical training (OPT).

Curriculum: The curriculum emphasizes user-centered design, motion graphics, interface design, and coding. Courses include topics such as interaction design, 3D modeling, UX/UI design, and programming for creatives. Students engage in studio-based learning, working on projects that simulate real-world challenges, and gain proficiency in the latest tools and software in the design industry.

Research Focus: RIT encourages innovation and research in new media trends, allowing students to explore areas such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and immersive media. Research opportunities involve collaboration with faculty and industry partners to develop creative solutions and groundbreaking designs in interactive media.

Industry Engagement: Students benefit from RIT’s strong connections with the digital design and tech industries. Internships and cooperative education opportunities with leading companies provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and insights into professional practices, ensuring graduates are job-ready and competitive in the marketplace.

Global Perspective: The program emphasizes a global outlook, integrating diverse cultural contexts into design projects. Study-abroad programs and international collaborations enable students to gain insights into global design trends and prepare for careers in the interconnected digital landscape.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is supporting international students through a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to ease the financial burden of studying abroad. These scholarships are available for undergraduate and graduate students and can be awarded based on academic merit, need, and specific program requirements.

Merit-Based Scholarships: RIT offers several merit-based scholarships for international students that are awarded based on academic achievement. These scholarships are intended to recognize the hard work and dedication of students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance in their previous studies. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition fees, making education at RIT more affordable for international students. Applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships during the admissions process, and no additional application is required.

International Student Scholarships: In addition to merit-based scholarships, RIT offers specific scholarships tailored to international students. These scholarships are designed to make education accessible to students from around the world and help them pursue their studies at a world-class institution. The scholarships vary in amount and eligibility criteria, and they are awarded based on factors such as academic performance, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement.

Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic programs at RIT offer program-specific scholarships for international students. These scholarships are designed to support students in specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, computer science, and the arts. Each program may have its own criteria for eligibility, and students are encouraged to check with their respective departments for details about available scholarships. Program-specific scholarships often offer additional opportunities for networking, research, and professional development.

Graduates of the B.F.A. in New Media Design from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) are equipped with the technical skills and creative expertise to pursue diverse career paths in the rapidly growing digital and design sectors. 

User Experience (UX) Designer: Crafting intuitive, engaging, and efficient interfaces for digital products and services.

User Interface (UI) Designer: Focusing on the design and layout of websites and mobile applications to enhance user interaction.

Interactive Media Designer: Creating engaging multimedia experiences for web, mobile, and digital platforms.

Motion Graphics Designer: Specializing in animating digital content and graphics for advertisements, websites, and media projects.

Game Designer: Working on the development of video games, integrating both the technical and creative aspects of game design.

3D Modeler: Creating three-dimensional assets for use in gaming, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and other digital experiences.

Web Designer and Developer: Designing and developing websites with an emphasis on both aesthetics and functionality.

Digital Content Strategist: Creating and managing content across digital platforms, ensuring consistency and alignment with brand goals.