Harvard University

Overview

The Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies with a focus on Digital Media Design at Harvard University is tailored for working professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in interactive media, web development, and digital product design. The program combines flexible online coursework with intensive on-campus sessions in Cambridge, culminating in a comprehensive capstone project that allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

What you'll study

The program consists of a series of graduate courses and a capstone project, providing a robust education in digital media design. Students have the opportunity to explore core areas, including:

• Interactive and multimedia design
• Web development and dynamic web applications
• Computational and emerging media approaches
• Prototyping, production, and project-based application

Students will complete 12 graduate courses, which may include offerings such as:

• Web GIS: Technologies and Applications
• Computer Science Using Java
• Developing for Drupal 8
• Dynamic Web Applications
• Web Programming Using JavaScript
• Game Development
• Exploring Digital Media
• Digital Media: From Ideas to Designs and Prototypes
• Website Development
• Computational Design
• Emerging Media and Technology
• Instructional Design

The program culminates in a two-semester capstone project, where students design, develop, and present a professional-level project addressing a real-world industry or community challenge. Topics may range from mobile applications to interactive media or immersive prototypes, tailored to individual interests and project scope.

Entry requirements

Academic background

• A four-year regionally accredited U.S. bachelor’s degree is required prior to enrolling in degree-applicable courses.
• Foreign degrees must undergo evaluation by the Admissions Office for eligibility.
• Applicants must not already possess, or be in the process of obtaining, a master’s degree in Digital Media Design or a closely related field.

Required prior graduate coursework

To initiate the admission process, candidates must complete two graduate-level courses (available online) with a grade of B or higher in each:

• One course in computational design
• One course in animation, film, virtual reality, or web design and application development

These courses can be taken in any order and do not need to be completed within the same semester. Applicants must maintain an overall Harvard cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

English language proficiency

• IELTS: 7.0 minimum score
• TOEFL iBT: 100 minimum score
• PTE Academic: 70 minimum score
• Duolingo English Test: 125 minimum score

Career prospects

Graduates of the Digital Media Design program can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors, including technology, entertainment, education, and marketing. The skills acquired through the program prepare students for roles such as digital product designers, web developers, multimedia artists, and instructional designers, equipping them with a competitive edge in the evolving digital landscape.