M.S. in Computer Science
The M.S. in Computer Science at SUNY Poly is a graduate-level program typically complet...
B.S. in Communication and Media Design
Utica, New York
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The B.S. in Communication and Media Design (CMD) is tailored for students interested in crafting compelling messages and experiences across diverse multimedia and multicultural contexts. It provides practical experience and theoretical knowledge in communication technologies, visual design, multimedia production, and content creation. Students gain a broad understanding of the communication and media industries, developing both creative and technical skills essential for success. The program balances artistic and scientific approaches, adapting to the continuously evolving digital media landscape, and preparing graduates for a variety of roles in media design and communications. It's often designed to be flexible, benefiting students who might also pursue dual majors in engineering, the sciences, or management.
Curriculum: The CMD curriculum is comprehensive, integrating elements of design, production, writing, and analysis of digital media content. While specific courses may vary, the program typically includes instruction in graphic design, interactive media, application and web design, photography, animation, and video content production. Students learn how social media tools impact information preparation, organization, and delivery. Core coursework likely covers areas like video production, web design, digital imaging, and copywriting. The curriculum emphasizes studio-based education, where students actively engage in producing media, and it aims to develop a strong understanding of best practices and techniques for analyzing and evaluating the effectiveness of digital media in communication.
Research Focus: The B.S. in Communication and Media Design implicitly fosters a research-oriented approach by emphasizing the critical analysis and evaluation of media products and communication strategies. Students are taught to understand how society, culture, and technology mutually influence each other, and how mass media and new technologies shape communication and design choices. While not a traditional pure research degree, the program encourages students to analyze audience, purpose, content, and genre to communicate effectively. Opportunities for practical projects and potential collaborations within the university's broader tech-focused environment could involve applied research in areas like user experience (UX) design, usability engineering, or the impact of new media technologies. Recent student projects, such as research on podcast creation and improving user experience for digital repositories, demonstrate an active engagement with practical research.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a core component of the Communication and Media Design program at SUNY Poly. The curriculum is designed to connect theory with practice, preparing students to be versatile, professional, and creative communicators. Students engage in studio-based education and are provided with real-world experience. This often includes working with clients in professional situations, under the direction of media managers, designers, lead writers, or publication managers, as part of senior-level practicums and portfolio classes. These practical experiences allow students to apply their skills in authentic industry settings, build professional networks, and develop portfolios that showcase their abilities to potential employers.
Global Perspective: The B.S. in Communication and Media Design at SUNY Polytechnic Institute inherently incorporates a global perspective, as effective communication and media design often transcend geographical boundaries in today's networked world. The program aims to prepare graduates to communicate creatively across diverse multimedia and multicultural contexts. By analyzing how mass media and new technologies shape communication globally, students gain a broader understanding of diverse audiences and cultural nuances. SUNY Poly's diverse student body, comprising individuals from many nations, further enriches the learning environment, fostering cross-cultural understanding and preparing graduates to operate effectively in an increasingly interconnected global media landscape.
Location
Utica, New York
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 18720
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $50
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
SUNY Polytechnic Institute is supporting international students through a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to recognize academic excellence and reduce financial barriers.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students admitted to SUNY Poly may be eligible for academic merit scholarships awarded based on high school or previous college performance. These scholarships reward strong academic records, leadership qualities, and potential for success in STEM, business, and health sciences fields.
Transfer and Continuing Student Scholarships: SUNY Poly offers scholarships for transfer students and those continuing their studies, recognizing sustained academic achievement and commitment to their programs.
Specialized Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within SUNY Poly may offer field-specific scholarships for international students excelling in areas such as engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, or nursing. These awards encourage students to advance innovation and research in their chosen disciplines.
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Communication and Media Design (CMD) from SUNY Polytechnic Institute equips graduates with a potent combination of creative vision and technical proficiency, essential for navigating today's dynamic digital landscape.
Graphic Designer: Graduates create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. They work on logos, websites, advertisements, brochures, magazines, and more, for diverse clients or internal corporate needs.
Web Designer: Focusing on the aesthetics and usability of websites, these professionals design the layout, visual elements, and interactive features to create engaging and user-friendly online experiences. They often work closely with web developers.
Multimedia Specialist / Digital Content Creator: These roles involve producing a wide array of digital content, including videos, animations, interactive presentations, and web-based media. They might work in marketing, education, entertainment, or corporate communications, blending various media forms to tell stories and convey messages.
Social Media Manager / Strategist: Graduates leverage their understanding of communication and digital platforms to manage an organization's online presence, create engaging content, analyze performance metrics, and build communities across various social media channels.
Video Editor / Producer: These professionals are responsible for assembling raw footage into finished video products for commercials, corporate videos, short films, documentaries, or online content. They manage the technical and creative aspects of video post-production.
UX/UI Designer (User Experience / User Interface Designer): Focusing on creating intuitive and satisfying experiences for users of digital products (websites, apps, software), UX/UI designers conduct research, build wireframes, prototype designs, and test usability to optimize user interaction.
Marketing Communications Specialist: These professionals develop and implement communication strategies to promote products, services, or brands. They create compelling messaging for various platforms, manage campaigns, and ensure consistent brand voice across all media.
Public Relations Specialist: Graduates work to manage the public image of an individual or organization. This involves writing press releases, organizing events, responding to media inquiries, and developing strategies to foster positive public perception.
Technical Writer / Editor: For those with strong writing and analytical skills, this career involves translating complex technical information into clear, concise, and easy-to-understand documents, such as user manuals, online help guides, and instruction booklets for various industries.
Animation Artist / Motion Graphics Designer: These specialists create animated visuals for various applications, including advertising, film, television, web content, and educational materials. They bring static designs to life through movement and visual effects.
