University of York

What you'll study

This programme blends technical and creative modules so you learn to design, develop and evaluate interactive systems, applications and installations. Early years emphasise core skills such as programming for interactive media, web and mobile development, digital imaging and audio, and foundations of interaction design and human–computer interaction. You will also study media theory, user experience (UX) principles, and basic electronics and sensors where relevant to physical computing.

Later years focus on applied projects and specialisms. Typical final-year work includes a substantial individual or group project (capstone) where you take an idea through research, prototyping and user testing to a working demonstrator. Optional topics commonly available allow you to specialise in areas such as game design and development, augmented and virtual reality, data visualisation, live multimedia performance, generative media, advanced web technologies, or machine learning for interactive systems.

Teaching combines lectures, practical labs and studio sessions, supported by seminars and supervised project supervision. Assessment is through a mix of practical coursework (demos, prototypes, portfolios), reports, presentations and project dissertations.

Typical modules and skills you will encounter

• Programming for interactive systems (e.g. Python, JavaScript, C# or equivalent)
• Web and mobile development
• Interaction design and user-centred design methods
• Digital audio, video and multimedia production
• Human–computer interaction and usability testing
• Physical computing and prototyping with sensors and microcontrollers
• Games and real-time graphics fundamentals
• Project management and collaborative practice

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and applicants are expected to hold a relevant secondary qualification such as A-levels, BTEC or an international equivalent. Typical applicants have studied at least one technical or numerical subject (for example computing, mathematics, physics) or a creative subject (for example art, design, media) at advanced level. Strong performance in core subjects and evidence of problem-solving ability are advantageous.

Applicants from vocational routes (BTEC or equivalent) with substantial practical experience in computing or digital media are welcome. A portfolio or examples of practical work (projects, code repositories, multimedia pieces) can strengthen an application but is not always mandatory. Applicants must also meet standard English language requirements if their first language is not English.

Career prospects

Graduates of Interactive Media move into a broad range of roles across digital, creative and technical industries. Common career paths include UX/UI designer, front-end developer, multimedia producer, game designer, interaction or experience designer, AR/VR developer, visualisation specialist, and digital content strategist. Graduates also find opportunities in research labs, cultural and museum technology teams, broadcast and live events technology, and in start-ups or as freelance creative technologists.

The programme develops transferable skills valued by employers: creative problem solving, prototyping and rapid iteration, user research and testing, cross-disciplinary teamwork, and technical competence in contemporary development tools and platforms. Many students follow further study at master’s level in areas such as HCI, digital design or computer science.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers an interdisciplinary environment where computing and creative practice are taught alongside research-led teaching. Students benefit from small-group project supervision, access to specialist labs and software, and an emphasis on reflective practice and user-centred methods. Teaching staff include academics active in areas such as interaction design, multimedia systems and digital creativity, and the university supports collaborations with industry and cultural institutions.

York’s campus provides studio and lab facilities for prototyping, multimedia production and live demonstration, alongside opportunities to take part in exhibitions, competitions and collaborative projects. The department’s connections to wider university research and to regional creative and tech networks help students gain placement experience, professional contacts and practical insight into working in the creative technology sector.