Master of Creative Technologies

Program Overview

The Master of Creative Technologies at AUT empowers students to transform their creative ideas into reality through a personalized research project. The program combines technical and creative disciplines, emphasizing entrepreneurship and innovation. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in the creative industries, including technology start-ups, artificial intelligence, and digital media.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Master of Creative Technologies degree at AUT is a studio-based, highly flexible program that empowers students to transform their creative ideas into reality through a master's research project.
The program is designed for individuals who envision themselves as creative entrepreneurs.
• Objectives:
• Enable students to develop their creative and technical skills through a personalized path tailored to their interests.
• Encourage the exploration of future-oriented themes and innovative concepts.
• Foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, inspiring students to identify potential commercial applications of their research projects.
• Program Description:
• Provides students with the freedom to choose their research project, ensuring alignment with their passions and career aspirations.
• Combines multiple technical and creative disciplines, offering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary learning experience.
• Emphasizes practical application, incorporating elements such as animation, transmedia storytelling, performance technologies, biofeedback systems, smart textiles, virtual environments, and intelligent agents into student projects.

Outline:

• Program Content:
• Courses:
Students complete 60 points of coursework, including:
• CTEC801 Systems Thinking (15 points)
• CTEC806 Post-Material Practices (15 points)
• CTEC808 Special Topic A (15 points)
• CTEC810 Transdisciplinary Research Methods (15 points)
• Students may also have the opportunity to select a course from another program, subject to approval by the program leader.
• Research Thesis:
Students undertake a 120-point research thesis, which forms the core of the program. The thesis allows students to delve deeply into their chosen topic and develop a substantial body of research. The thesis can incorporate both written and practical components, depending on the research topic.
• Course Schedule:
The program can be completed full-time in 1.5 years or part-time over a longer duration. The course schedule is designed to provide students with the flexibility to balance their studies with other commitments.
• Individual Modules:
• CTEC801 Systems Thinking:
This module introduces students to systems thinking concepts and methodologies. Students learn how to apply systems thinking to understand complex problems and develop innovative solutions.
• CTEC806 Post-Material Practices:
This module explores the emerging field of post-material practices. Students examine the use of new materials and technologies in creative practice and consider the ethical and environmental implications of these practices.
• CTEC808 Special Topic A:
This module allows students to delve into a specific topic of their choice, under the guidance of a supervisor. Students design their own research project and develop a deep understanding of their chosen topic.
• CTEC810 Transdisciplinary Research Methods:
This module provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct transdisciplinary research. Students learn how to integrate methods from multiple disciplines to address complex research questions.
• CTEC999 Thesis:
This module is the culmination of the Master's program. Students conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty member and produce a substantial thesis that makes an original contribution to the field of creative technologies.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: The program employs a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
• Coursework assignments, such as essays, presentations, and creative projects
• Research proposals and progress reports
• Oral examinations
• Final thesis defense
• Assessment Criteria: Student assessments are based on the following criteria:
• Clarity of research question and methodology
• Depth of research and analysis
• Originality and innovation
• Communication skills (written and oral)
• Ability to critically evaluate and reflect on research findings

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a range of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles, including:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• One-on-one supervision
• Group projects
• Guest lectures from industry professionals
• Faculty: The program is taught by a team of experienced and passionate faculty members who are actively involved in research and creative practice.
They provide students with expert guidance and support throughout their studies.
• Unique Approaches: The program's unique features include:
• Emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation:
Students are encouraged to explore the commercial potential of their research projects and develop skills in business and marketing.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
Students have the opportunity to collaborate with students and researchers from other disciplines, fostering a cross-disciplinary exchange of ideas and perspectives.
• Industry Engagement:
The program maintains strong connections with industry partners, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and access to real-world projects.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Graduates of the Master of Creative Technologies program are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in the creative industries, including:
• Technology start-ups
• Regenerative design
• Artificial intelligence
• Augmented and virtual reality
• Sensory design
• Creative technologies
• Digital media
• Electronic music and sound
• Games and interaction
• Internet of things
• Smart textiles
• Wearable technologies
• Materials design
• Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as:
• Creative director
• UX designer
• User experience researcher
• Interaction designer
• Game designer
• Web developer
• Mobile app developer
• Product designer
• Entrepreneur