University of York

What you'll study

This programme is driven by an independent research project developed with a supervisory team. You will negotiate a research proposal that can be practice-based (for example interactive installations, game prototypes, AR/VR work, audiovisual systems) or a traditional thesis in areas such as interaction design, media theory, digital culture, human–computer interaction and computational creativity.

Supporting your project, typical taught and training elements include:

• Research methods and methodologies — training in qualitative, quantitative and practice-led methods, ethics, and research design appropriate to interactive media.
• Theory and critical perspectives — seminars exploring contemporary media theory, user experience, ludology, embodiment and multisensory interaction.
• Technical and practice skills — workshops or short modules on prototyping, programming for interaction, rapid fabrication, sound and visual production, or game engines depending on project needs.
• Project development and dissemination — regular supervisory meetings, peer feedback, and training in writing for academic publication, exhibition curation and pitching work to non-academic partners.

Your final submission is a substantial piece of independent research: either a written dissertation accompanied by documentation of creative work, or a practice-based body of work supported by a reflective critical commentary and an oral examination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (usually a 2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as media, computer science, design, fine art or a related field. Strong candidates with a lower-class degree but substantial professional or creative experience in interactive media may also be considered. You will need to submit a research proposal outlining your intended project and, where relevant, examples of previous creative or technical work.

International applicants must demonstrate an appropriate level of English language proficiency. All applicants are assessed on the suitability of their proposed research and the availability of supervisory expertise.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a range of pathways where advanced research, creative practice and technical competence are valued. Typical careers include:

• Doctoral study and academic research in interactive media, HCI, digital arts and related fields.
• Research and development roles in industry, including UX/interaction research, prototyping and product innovation.
• Creative and technical roles in games, immersive media, audiovisual production and interactive installation.
• Technology- or research-focused posts in cultural institutions, museums and galleries, specialising in digital interpretation and audience engagement.
• Consultancy, freelance practice and leadership roles requiring combined critical, design and technical skills.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers an interdisciplinary environment that supports practice-based and scholarly research across arts, humanities and technology. As a research-led institution you will be supervised by staff with expertise spanning interaction design, media studies and computing, and you will be able to draw on collaborative research groups and centres within the university.

Students benefit from access to specialist facilities and equipment for prototyping and production, from studios and labs to software resources, plus opportunities to showcase work through exhibitions, public events and external partnerships. The programme emphasises both rigorous scholarship and the production of work with real-world impact, making it suitable for those who want to bridge academic and professional practice.