Point Park University

What you'll study

This master's programme blends technical foundations with applied media practice. Core study areas typically include digital signal processing for audio and video, streaming architectures and content delivery networks, IP networking for media, systems integration, and media production workflows. Students also explore software tools and scripting for automation, metadata and content management, compression and codecs, and the security and compliance considerations relevant to communications systems.

Programme structure emphasises practical labs, project work and a culminating capstone or practicum. Typical modules and elements you can expect are:

• Advanced Audio and Video Technologies — codecs, capture and post-production pipelines, and quality assessment.
• Streaming and Content Delivery — live and on-demand streaming architectures, CDN concepts, adaptive bitrate delivery.
• Networking for Media — IP networking, multicast, QoS, and transport protocols used in media distribution.
• Systems Integration and Automation — scripting, APIs, orchestration of workflows, and use of cloud services for media processing.
• Emerging Communication Platforms — webRTC, OTT platforms, mobile delivery, and interactive media technologies.
• Security, Rights and Compliance — content protection, DRM basics, accessibility and regulatory considerations.
• Capstone Project / Practicum — an applied, supervised project with a real-world brief, often undertaken with industry partners or internal production units.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field such as communications, media production, computer science, electrical engineering, information technology or a closely related discipline. Where applicants have significant professional experience in media technology, related work may be considered in lieu of a strictly related undergraduate degree.

Typical requirements include:

• A completed undergraduate degree with satisfactory academic standing.
• Evidence of practical experience or coursework in one or more relevant areas (e.g. audio/video production, networking, programming, or systems administration).
• A CV/resume and a personal statement outlining goals and relevant experience; applicants for production-focused pathways may be asked for a portfolio or samples of work.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as set by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for technical and hybrid technical-creative roles across media, telecommunications and digital platforms. Typical career pathways include positions such as broadcast or streaming engineer, media systems integrator, digital media technologist, platform operations specialist, content delivery network analyst, and technical producer for live and on-demand services.

Alumni also move into roles supporting OTT services, corporate communications technology teams, post-production facilities, and technology consultancies. Some graduates pursue further research or teaching in media technologies, or start freelance practices and small businesses focussed on media systems and digital distribution.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park University offers a blend of applied learning and industry engagement in an urban campus setting. The programme is designed for hands-on training with access to production labs, networking and server resources, and small class sizes that enable close mentorship from faculty with professional experience in media and communications technology.

Situated in a city with a strong media and technology sector, students benefit from internship and partnership opportunities with regional companies, live production outlets and technology firms. The curriculum emphasises practical skill development and real-world projects to prepare graduates for immediate entry into technical and production roles in the rapidly evolving communications industry.