An online master’s degree in multimedia design may provide students with a solid foundation on combining animation and visual effects for different types of media. In these upper-level programs, students may study computer illustration, wireless communication, and animation. Coursework within these programs may include several core multimedia design courses, such as multimedia software development, web programming, and database concepts.

Multimedia design graduates may seek entry to upper-level employment or further their education by enrolling in a doctoral-level program. Graduates of these upper-level programs may find employment opportunities in animation, motion pictures, software publishing, and computer systems design.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 8% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

Students enrolled in a master’s-level program in multimedia design may choose their own courses within a range of subjects, and they may expound upon their studies in undergraduate programs. These graduate-level programs may allow students to fine-tune their technology skills while studying interface design. Core multimedia design courses may include the following:

• Multimedia Design
• Media and Culture
• Designing for E-Commerce
• Web Programming
• Database Concepts
• Multimedia Software Development
• 3D Animation

Career Options

Graduates of master’s-level programs in multimedia design may find employment opportunities in motion pictures, video game design, software publishing, e-commerce, animation, and computer systems design. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those in multimedia design are expected to increase by 8% from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Multimedia Artist
• Graphic Designer
• Art Director
• Fine Artist
• Computer Programmer

Continuing Education

Individuals who successfully complete a master’s-level program in multimedia design may choose to continue their education through a doctoral-level program. Doctoral programs may provide students with advanced knowledge in design through research and application. Employers may prefer to hire individuals who have a strong portfolio, strong technical skills, and possess at least a bachelor’s degree in computer graphics, multimedia design, or a related field.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook