Introduction to the MSc in Interactive Media

The MSc in Interactive Media is a conversion course designed for graduates from various disciplines who wish to acquire skills in demand by the IT sector. This intensive taught course focuses on the practical and technical aspects of interactive media, aiming to equip students with a thorough understanding of the technology and industry-standard tools used in the digital media sector.

Course Outline

The MSc in Interactive Media is a taught program that can be taken full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months. The course structure includes:

• Core modules (60 credits)
• Dissertation (30 credits)

Core Modules

Full-time students take 30 credits, while part-time students choose three modules each year (15 credits), totaling six separate modules over two years (30 credits).

Modules - Semester 1

• CS6100: Authoring (5 credits)
• CS6101: Web Development for Digital Media (5 credits)
• CS6102: Graphics for Interactive Media (5 credits)
• CS6103: Audio and Sound Engineering (5 credits)
• CS6104: Digital Video Capture and Packaging (5 credits)
• CS6111: 3D Graphics and Modelling (5 credits)

Modules - Semester 2

Full-time students take 30 credits, while part-time students take 15 credits.

• CS6105: Future and Emerging Interaction Technologies (5 credits)
• CS6113: Internet-based Applications (5 credits)
• CS6114: Digital Video Compression and Delivery (5 credits)
• CS6115: Human-Computer Interaction (5 credits)
• CS6116: Mobile Multimedia (5 credits)
• CS6117: Audio Processing (5 credits)

Project Phase (After Period 2)

• CS6200: Dissertation in Interactive Media (30 credits)

Course Practicalities

• Lectures: 12 hours per week (full-time), 6 hours per week (part-time)
• Laboratory sessions: 6 hours per week (full-time), 3 hours per week (part-time) Students are expected to undertake independent reading and study.

Why Choose This Course

This conversion course is intended for graduates without a Computer Science degree who wish to attain skills in demand by the IT sector. The course aims to equip students with qualifications relevant to the multimedia, broadcast, games, web, social media, and general ICT industries.

Requirements

• Open to graduates of any discipline with at least a Second Class Honours Grade 2 in a primary honors degree (NFQ, Level 8) or equivalent professional qualification.
• Applicants without the requisite primary degree are subject to the approval of the School and the College of Science, Engineering, and Food Science under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
• For applicants with qualifications completed outside of Ireland, equivalent entry academic grades are required.
• International/Non-EU applicants must meet the required entry academic grade and English language requirements.

Fees and Costs

• EU fee: Full-time 8,000, Part-time 4,800
• Non-EU fee: 28,000
• Deposits are non-refundable in all cases.

How to Apply

1. Check dates for the application process.
2. Gather supporting documents, including original qualification documents and transcripts.
3. Apply online through the UCC online application portal. The closing date for non-EU applications is open until all places are filled or no later than 15 June. Early application is advised.

Contact Details

For queries regarding course content or timetables, please contact the relevant department.

Similar Courses

• MSc Computing Science
• MSc Data Science & Analytics

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Degree Overview:

The MSc in Interactive Media is a Conversion Course designed for graduates from various backgrounds who wish to gain practical and technical skills in interactive media. The program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the technology and industry-standard tools used in the digital media sector. The course focuses on the creation of interactive digital media, which involves a blend of creative and technical skills using a range of existing and emerging technologies. Upon completion, students will have a thorough knowledge of the underlying concepts, technologies, and practices of interactive digital media and be able to apply these to create interactive digital media products.

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Outline:

The MSc (Interactive Media) is a taught program that can be taken full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months from the date of first registration.

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Program Structure:

Students must earn 90 credits through a combination of:

• Core modules (60 credits): Full-time students take all core modules in one year, while part-time students choose three modules each year (15 credits), totaling six modules over two years (30 credits).
• Dissertation (30 credits): This project is undertaken after the core modules are completed.

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Core Modules:

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Semester 1:

• CS6100 Authoring (5 credits): This module covers the principles and practices of authoring interactive media, including scripting, animation, and multimedia integration.
• CS6102 Graphics for Interactive Media (5 credits): This module explores the use of graphics in interactive media, covering topics such as image manipulation, vector graphics, and 2D animation.
• CS6104 Digital Video Capture and Packaging (5 credits): This module covers the techniques and technologies involved in capturing, editing, and packaging digital video for interactive media.
• CS6111 3D Graphics and Modelling (5 credits): This module introduces students to the principles of 3D graphics and modeling, including software tools and techniques for creating 3D objects and environments.

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Semester 2:

• CS6105 Future and Emerging Interaction Technologies (5 credits): This module explores the latest advancements in interactive technologies, including virtual reality, augmented reality, and wearable computing.
• CS6114 Digital Video Compression and Delivery (5 credits): This module covers the principles and techniques of digital video compression and delivery, including codecs, streaming protocols, and content distribution networks.
• CS6115 Human-Computer Interaction (5 credits): This module explores the principles of human-computer interaction, including user interface design, usability testing, and accessibility.
• CS6116 Mobile Multimedia (5 credits): This module focuses on the development of interactive media for mobile devices, including mobile app development, responsive design, and cross-platform compatibility.

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Note:

Not all modules may be offered in a particular year and are subject to change.

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Project Phase (After Period 2):

• CS6200 Dissertation in Interactive Media (30 credits): This module involves the development of a substantial interactive media project, which allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world problem or challenge.
The part-time option is taught during weekday working hours over two years.

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Course Practicalities:

• Lectures: 12 hours per week (full-time); 6 hours per week (part-time)
• Laboratory sessions: 6 hours per week (full-time); 3 hours per week (part-time)
Students are expected to undertake independent reading and study.

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Postgraduate Diploma in Interactive Media:

Students who successfully achieve the pass standard in the examination may opt not to proceed to the digital media project and may instead be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in Interactive Media.

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Careers:

The ICT sector in Ireland is a thriving and growing industry with a strong presence of global software and ICT companies. This sector is a major employer in Ireland, with numerous opportunities for graduates in interactive media.

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Graduates from this program typically find employment in areas such as:

• Graphic Design & UI/UX Development
• Senior Developer, Designer, Architect, Management
• Social Media / Digital Content
• Product Management
• Digital Analytics / Visualisation

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Other:

Interactive media is a fast-changing discipline, so the program actively engages with industry and research communities to ensure that the course content is continuously evolving and relevant, preparing students for a productive future in the digital media industry.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.