Master of Arts in Media and Information

The Master of Arts program in Media and Information prepares students for a broad range of professional positions in the fast-growing media and information sector. The flexible curriculum allows students to put together a customized program of study or to focus in one of three high-demand careers: user experience, management of media and information industries, and transmedia production (with an emphasis on film and/or games). The degree program also prepares students for further study at the doctoral level. Upon completion of this degree program graduates should possess a broad disciplinary base in the theory, methods, technology, design, and management of media and information in organizations and society. The impact of media and information systems on how we work, communicate, and even relax is profound. Our internationally know master's program equips students to be leaders in their field. Students work closely with faculty and gain experience from classes that teach research methods and the skills that students need to succeed. Our focus areas include game studies, HCI/UX, and media policy. Students can participate in our game development and testing, labs that explore the impacts of virtual reality, research groups that explore the impacts of social media, and meet with scholars that are working on cutting edge issues.

All Official Transcripts. Bachelor Degree is required for Admission. TOEFL PBT - 580. TOEFL IBT - 91. IELTS - 6.5.
The Media and Information master's program is a top tier program that is selective to ensure the best student experience. Successful applicants usually have a 3.0 or higher GPA in a program that prepares them for our research intensive program. The master's experience includes working closely with faculty and engaging in classes and projects that teach research both qualitative and quantitative research skills. We are committed to being an inclusive and supportive learning community. So we look for students who have a passion to learn. We encourage applicants who come from diverse backgrounds, but have a strong interest in UX design, usability, game studies, media policy & society, or information management to apply.
Official and original transcripts and degree certification documents from all Universities/Colleges attended.
Applicants must have completed the minimum of a 4-year Bachelor's program,
All official transcripts or mark sheets, diplomas, and/or certificates mailed in an official, sealed envelope directly to Michigan State University (MSU) from each institution attended. Original documents issued directly to students (in an open, unsealed envelope and/or documents only issued once to students) are not acceptable, photocopies are also not acceptable.
Material to demonstrate preparation for master's level studies. Any one of the following.
Official GRE test scores on the General Test. The Department takes a holistic approach in reviewing applications, so while there is no required minimum score for the GRE, scores in the upper 50th percentile are reviewed more favorably.
Link to personal website that features a portfolio of the student's work
An example of the student's research skills, such as a research paper the results of an undergraduate research project. The paper or poster must be the student's personal work not a group project.
TOEFL or IELTS test scores for international students
TOEFL: The Department requires a minimum of 91 IBT with no subscores below 22, or a 237 CBT with no subscores below 22, or a 580 PBT with no subscores below 55. Reported scores must be no older than 2 years),
IELTS: The Department requires a minimum of 6.5.
Three (3) letters of recommendation.
Students will indicate in the online application the three names and email addresses, the application system will then notify each individual separately and request from them to upload/submit their recommendation online. No physical letters of recommendation will be accepted,
A personal statement.
The personal statement is your opportunity to tell the M.A. Committee about yourself, your background (e.g., cultural, ethnic, etc.), your passion and professional interests and aspirations. In addition, this is the opportunity to communicate to the M.A. Committee any factors that may have contributed to any prior academic underperformance and you would wish for the M.A. Committee to take into consideration during the review of your application.
An academic statement.
Your academic statement should indicate which Concentration either Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) or Media and Information Management (MIM) you are interested in, as well as any additional academic options of interest from the following:
HCI students could also earn the Graduate Certificate in Serious Games Design and Research concurrently with the M.A. in Media and Information program studies.
MIM students could also choose any of the following three options, which are described further here (i) Management of IT Specialization, (ii) ICT for Development, and (iii) Information, Policy, Society IPS) Cognate.
Statement of Financial Proof (also referred to as Affidavit of Support) *International students only*