Programs & Admissions
More than ever before, information technology specialists need a deeper understanding of their field. A graduate degree can give you the tools you need to excel in your career.
Master of Applied Science in Digital Media
Thesis-Based Masters
Key Details
1.5 core course credits
2.5 elective credits
Full-time study
Optional cybersecurity specialization
Location
On campus
Enrolment
Full time
Application deadline
Apply any time.
In-takes in September and January.
Earn your Master's in Applied Science in Digital Media, a thesis-based research degree that combines rigorous academic inquiry with hands-on, practical experience. Ideal for creative and tech-focused innovators, this program allows students to build real-world applications, software, and digital projects, honing skills in areas like interactive media, immersive environments, and user experience (UX) design. Unlike many “media studies” or “digital media studies” programs out there, our program is specialized in terms of applied theory and hands-on applications of digital media. The DM program is research-based and students will produce a thesis as a requirement of the program. Guided by expert faculty and supported by state-of-the-art resources, you'll develop a unique portfolio and research expertise, preparing you for roles in digital media software development, UX research, and beyond. Explore the future of digital media with a truly immersive, experiential approach!
Key Details
1.5 core course credits
2.5 elective credits
Full-time study
Optional cybersecurity specialization
Location
On campus
Enrolment
Full time
Application deadline
Apply any time.
In-takes in September and January.
The Masters in Applied Science in DM program is research-based, which means a major component is working on a research project and preparing/defending a thesis based on it. This should involve novel ideas and significant work. See our thesis examples and showcase for the types of research being produced by the School of IT.
This master's program is expected to take 2 full years (6 consecutive terms). The breakdown of these two years depends on the students. The most common pattern though is fall/winter of the first year to take courses, the rest working on thesis research. Most students finish in 2 years.
We offer two optional specializations to our Digital Media students: Data Science, or Cybersecurity.
Coursework
The coursework is generally done in university. The rest depends on students and their research supervisor. Keep in mind that a 2-year program completion assumes full-time status. Working on your thesis takes time and outside employment will make it longer, but it is possible to do this degree part-time.
Master of Applied Science (M.A.Sc.): Digital Media Collaborative Specialization in Data Science
- DATA5000 [0.5 credit] Data Science Seminar
- ITEC5909 [2.5 credits] Master's Thesis in Digital Media
- 1.5 credits in core courses
- 0.5 credits in Electives selected in consultation with the supervisor
Master of Applied Science (M.A.Sc.): Digital Media Collaborative Specialization in Cybersecurity
- CYBR5000 [1.0 credit] Science and Social Science of Cybersecurity
- ITEC5001 [0.0 credits] Information Technology Seminar 1
- ITEC5909 [2.5 credits] Master's Thesis in Digital Media
- 1.5 credits in core courses
Core Courses
- ITEC5002 [0.5 credit] Fundamentals of Information Technology Research
- ITEC 5210 [0.5] Applied Deep Learning (*currently offered as ITEC 5920)
- ITEC5200 [0.5 credit] Entertainment Technologies
- ITEC5201 [0.5 credit] Computer Animation Technologies
- ITEC5202 [0.5 credit] Visual Effects Technologies
- ITEC5203 [0.5 credit] Game Design and Development Technologies
- ITEC5204 [0.5 credit] Emerging Interaction Techniques (also listed as HCIN5300)
- ITEC5205 [0.5 credit] Design and Development of Data-Intensive Applications
- ITEC5206 [0.5 credit] Data Protection and Rights Management
- ITEC5207 [0.5 credit] Data Interaction Techniques
- ITEC5208 [0.5 credit] Virtual Reality and 3D User Interfaces
- ITEC5209 [0.5 credit] Empirical Research Methods in HCI
- ITEC5920 [0.5 credit] Special Topics in Digital Media
- ITEC5010 [0.5 credit] Applied Programming* Requires Supervisor Permission
Career Paths
Graduates of the Master's in Applied Science, Digital Media are well-prepared for diverse and exciting career paths. With expertise in areas like interactive media, UX design, digital storytelling, and immersive technologies, alumni can pursue roles as UX designers and researchers, digital product managers, multimedia designers, and AR/VR developers. Canada's growing digital sector, with hubs in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa and Montreal, offers ample opportunities in tech companies, media studios, educational institutions, and startups. Many of our DM graduates will go on to work with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which have strong research activities in the entertainment, media and communication industries, for software developers in Canada and beyond, and also for government agencies and organizations who require digital media content and technologies. This degree equips you with practical skills and research experience, making you a standout candidate in Canada's competitive digital media landscape.