Frequently Asked Questions
About the Major
Do I need to have an emphasis in Arts or Sciences ?
No. You may design your major to balance studies between Media Arts and Media Sciences. The emphasis on either Media Arts or Media Science is optional. If you are doing a double-major, it is worth considering how they could be related: e.g. Media Sciences & Economics or Media Arts & Architecture.
I've decided to declare a MAS major-- who should I talk to?
You should meet this either Prof. Kelley (Studio Art) or Prof. Metaxas (Computer Science) before declaring your major. Do this as soon as possible, once you have decided.
I'm an incoming student, and am interested, but not sure -- which should classes should I start with?
The classes all MAS majors (as well as others interested in art, architecure or internet production) need to take are: 2D Design (ARTS 109, taught every semester, and summer); Computers and the Internet (CS 110, taught every semester); and History of Art II (ARTH 101: taught every spring semester). Students especially interested in photography or video should elect Intro to Photo (ARTS 108) instead of, or with 2D Design. This class is difficult to get into, however, and you should contact Professor Rogers the semester prior about applying to the class.
I plan to go abroad my junior year, how should I plan to structure my major?
Do the pre-requisite classes (CS 110, ARTH 101 & ARTS 109/8) as soon as possible - these will allow you to take the needed 200 level classes your second year. Ideally, you should have 6-8 of your major units in place before you go abroad, depending on what offerings the abroad program has in related course work. Try to schedule a meeting with Prof. Olsen or Shaer during fall of your second year, to review your plans.
What study abroad programs offer good options for the MAS major?
Because this is a new major, we are still compiling this information. There are several good programs in Australia and New Zealand. Check the MAS Majors conference, as we will have a brown bag lunch to discuss these options with students who have tried out these programs.
Is there an MAS minor?
No. If you are more interested in MS or MA, consider doing a minor is CS or Art Studio (with media classes).
I want to double major, as well as go abroad, how should I do this?
This is not an easy option, and you may want to re-think this idea, for two specific reasons. The MAS major is already a double major of sorts, and because it is production oriented, does fit will with another minor (or vise versa, see above.) Second, your studies and subsequent work (portfolio) will speak for itself, and is far more relevant and valued. The only case in which this might make sense, is to double it with a closely related field, such as architecture & media arts, or computer science & media sciences.
A major is just a way to focus a course of study. Keep in mind that an employer or graduate program will see you entire transcript, including all your classes. If you look at an actual transcript, notice how small the text is, many people don't even see it. Rather, they get a larger 'portrait' of you, you interests and choices. Better to use your time here in the way that best allows you to develop and challenge your education and goals.
Can I do an MAS thesis? Who should be my advisor?
The MAS thesis offers a year-long opportunity to develop independent research and production with honors. Students interested in proposing a thesis must have a minimum 3.5 GPA in the major, and the support of a faculty advisor in the Art or CS departments. Normally, the honors process needs to obey the guidelines of the corresponding department (Studio Art or CS). An interdepartmental review will occur at the end of the fall semester, to determine whether the student should continue her project as a 370 in the Spring and convey its decision to the student by December 20th. In a case where it is recommended that the Senior Thesis not be continued into the second semester, a student would receive credit for 360 work on the completion of a schedule of work previously agreed to between the thesis advisor and the student.
Thesis proposal should be discussed with the primary faculty advisor during the spring prior to senior year. Proposals for thesis projects must be submitted in writing, detailing the scope for the project, research methodology, project timeline, and must be accompanied by an electronic portfolio of at least 4 MAS projects. Proposals are due on August 25 before the beginning of the student's senior year.
About Careers and Internships
What kinds of career options are available for MAS majors?
There is a wide variety of career options for MAS majors. Both our contemporary culture and the global economy have shifted dramatically with the continued emergence of digital technology, information systems and visual communications. Studies in MAS can be broadly applied to a host of related fields and interests - computing & networks, media & information, arts & culture, design & architecture, scientific visualization, etc. See the recent study in the NYT "Where the Jobs Are"
>>Subscribe to the Media Arts and MAS Majors Conferences on FC, where many internships, jobs, etc are posted.
What kinds of work do internships offer?
Most of the local MAS related internships offer the opportunity to be active producing a serious project, event or project, not the common staple of office filing and clerical work. As you review the list of postings, consider what skills may be needed and what you can walk away with from the internship. While many are unpaid internships, having a solid portfolio of projects and skill sets is hugely valued in today's marketplace. Check the Media Arts & MAS Majors conference for ongoing postings.
I'm worried about preparing for a job or internship, what should I be doing?
Check the Media Arts and MAS Majors conferences - there are ongoing job fairs, workshops etc. posted here. If you are in the Arts, make it your practice of developing your portfolio. Talk to professors and other students if you have a specific interest, and need help or suggestions. We will offer a lunch time workshop on portfolio development in Februray.
Pre-Requisites and Replacements
I have worked professionally as a webmaster, and know HTML. Do I still have to take CS 110?
If you have a developed portfolio of projects that you have personally created using HTML, javascript and WYSIWYG applications, contact Prof. Shaer
I have done a lot of photography in high school, can I skip over ARTS 108?
Classes in the Art Department rarely provide credit for high school classes. If you have a portfolio of photography work you would like reviewed, make an appointment with Prof. Kelley.
