Online Multimedia Schools and Degrees
Explore online degree programs in multimedia subjects, such as graphics, communications and video production. Review some of the course topics you could study in these programs. Get info on choosing a school for your multimedia training.
What You Need to Know
The term multimedia refers to the integration of two or more mediums used to deliver information. These mediums can include graphics, video, text, sound, animation and other elements. Degree program titles may include multimedia studies, communications, technologies, arts or design.
You might also find a certificate, associate's degree and bachelor's degree programs in computer science or information technology available online that incorporate multimedia studies or that offer multimedia concentration options.
| Courses | Web and graphic design; digital animation; image editing; interactive media; web development; 3D design |
| Programs | Graphic and Multimedia Design; Graphic and Multimedia Management; Web Design and Development; Web Game Programming; Digital Arts; Graphic Information Technology |
| Degrees | Online Award of Completion; Associate's Degree; Bachelor's Degree; Master Degree |
What Should I Consider When Applying to Schools?
Hands-on experience is important in the multimedia field. You may look for programs that offer hands-on training using industry standard programs such as Illustrator, Photoshop, Flash, Dreamweaver and Maya 3D. Also, look for programs that offer projects you can compile into a portfolio for use in future job searches. A portfolio will show employers your skills and the type of multimedia work you are capable of doing. Also helpful in the job search is a well-written resume, so you may benefit from programs that require you to enroll in a resume writing course.
If you want to specialize in a particular area, such as visual effects, you'll need to look for programs that emphasize that area of concentration. Also, some programs may not offer all of their concentration areas online. You may need to take the courses for these specializations on campus. These schools offer online multimedia programs:
- Northeastern University (Boston, MA)
- University of Massachusetts Lowell*Rasmussen College (Maitland, FL)
- Pennsylvania State University (University Park, PA)
- Academy of Art University (San Francisco, CA)
What Degrees Are Available?
You can find undergraduate and graduate online multimedia degrees. For example, you might pursue an Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design. You could also find a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a multimedia concentration or a Bachelor of Design in Digital Multimedia Design. A Master of Arts in Communications and Media Technologies degree program might also be available.
What Courses Will I Take?
Your classes will depend on the program you enroll in and the area of emphasis or concentration you pursue. For example, a multimedia technologies program may feature specializations in Web design or animation. Depending on the program, your curriculum may also focus more on art courses or computer science courses. You might cover some of the following topics:
- Web and graphic design
- Digital animation
- Image editing
- Content and database management
- Game arts
- Web development
- 3D design
- Interactive media