Degree Information:

The MSc in Multimedia focuses on the design, content provision and creative authoring of interactive digital media (multimedia) products, services and new media artworks. Combining both practice-based and theory-based learning, the programme addresses how new digital tools, emerging technologies and networks are central to the production and distribution of all media genres and information formats, in the media, the creative and commercial sectors, and in everyday social and cultural life internationally.

Aims and Objectives:

• To provide students from a range of undergraduate and skills' backgrounds with an effective learning environment with respect to digital media technologies and content creation.
• To develop the core technical skills required in the application of industry-standard new media tools.
• To develop the creative and technical skills in the design, editorial, authoring skills and communication competencies required for the appropriate application/use of multimedia technologies in the production of content, products and services.

Why should I choose DCU?

The world of interactive multimedia is constantly changing and, as the first degree of its kind in Ireland, the MSc in Multimedia continues to evolve with it. With its creative and innovative approach and experienced range of lecturers and professional practitioners, the MSc in Multimedia has a consistent record of producing top graduates who have the expertise, creativity and versatility to succeed in numerous careers.

Programme Structure:

The programme is delivered on a full-time basis over a single academic year. Students are required to take five core modules in Semester 1 and four modules in Semester 2. Students undertake a team-based major project/dissertation during the summer months for submission in late August.

View the subjects currently taught on this course (2012 - 2013)

Why DCU?

• The programme is distinct in its approach to multimedia education.
• A creative and student-centered supportive learning environment
• The 'learn by doing' philosophy inspires excellence, innovation and professionalism.
• The availability of cutting-edge technical resources and equipment.
• A dedicated teaching staff comprising both professional practitioners and academics.
• A track record of success by students in international competitions and exhibitions.

What Our Graduates Say

"I found the MSc in Multimedia to be an invaluable graduate programme. Not only did the course content allow me to hone my existing skills, it also introduced me to media and technologies I had no experience of, with ongoing assessment, as well as an emphasis on task-based and independent learning allowing me to build on my new skills as the year progressed.

The excellent facilities in the School of Communications provided a focussed environment for study, and our lecturers and technical staff were approachable, positive and supportive. One huge advantage of this MSc course is the curriculum's focus not only on multimedia technologies, but also the creative processes, theories and academia behind the media we produce. The course emphasised the need for a critical and creative artistic vision in our projects as well as professional standard technical work. It was this element of the course that kept me thinking, and allowed me to produce a final project that strove to be both technologically and creatively innovative.

The MSc in Multimedia has shown me that I have the faculties to learn independently and creatively, and has motivated me to carve out a career in multimedia production." Rebecca Saunders, MSc in Multimedia (Hons) graduate 2011- 2012, co-founder of Little Cloud Media.

Fees Reduction

This programme is supported by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) under their Graduate Skills Conversion Programme, resulting in a reduced fee for European Union citizens. This is subject to review each year but in 2012/2013 the fees payable per annum by EU citizens were reduced to €2,750.

Career Prospects:

A DCU Multimedia qualification is recognised worldwide and is much in demand in Ireland. There is an enormous diversity of opportunities within the industry. Former graduates are currently employed as web developers, graphic designers, imaging specialists, content writers, advertising creatives, project managers, sound designers and lecturers.

The nature of the businesses for which they are employed ranges from the creative and entertainment industries to e-learning companies, and from universities to the museum and heritage sectors. Students have been recruited by companies such as Martello Media, TDP and EMG in Dublin and a variety of digital media establishments abroad. Students have also formed successful Irish based production companies including Sock Media, NakedTiger and Evoke3.

Future Careers

• Web Developer
• Digital Video Specialist
• Digital Imaging Specialist
• Interactive Animator/Designer
• Content Writer
• Sound Designer
• Installation Designer
• Project Manager
• New Media Artist

Entry Requirements:

Students will normally be expected to have a second class (2:1, 2:2) or better honours degree. Candidates are drawn from a wide variety of backgrounds including humanities, fine arts, visual communication, social sciences, business, journalism, computer application, engineering, new technology & the creative arts. A familiarity with digital software tools is expected.

Assessment by Interview
Candidates should note that an interview is part of the selection process for this programme. Shortlisted candidates are expected to be available for interview. Candidates shortlisted for interview will be able to book their interview through the Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC) website (www.pac.ie). Interview slots will be allocated on a first come first served basis. It is not possible to accommodate other interview dates.

International Applications
International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language. For further information on international applications click here.

Dates for Submission of Applications 2013

EU Applicants
Applications are invited up to 17th May 2013. They will be decided on in the order they are received until all places are taken, or up to 30th August, whichever is earlier. Applicants may be asked to attend for interview.

Non-EU Applicants
Applications are invited up to 17th May 2013. They will be decided on in the order they are received until all places are taken, or up to 15th July, whichever is earlier. Applicants may be asked to attend for interview.

Applying through the Postgraduate Applications Centre (http://www.pac.ie/dcu)
To apply for this programme use the PAC code DC605.

Queries on completed applications to be sent to registry.pac@dcu.ie

Full list of degrees >

Fee information

Indicative Timetable
(Weeks 20-31)