M.F.A. Admission Requirements

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The M.F.A. in Interactive Media is a 2-year masters degree with tracks in user experience (UX), interaction design (IxD), game design, information graphics and visualization, and interactive storytelling. We welcome U.S. and international master degree candidates who share an affinity and talent for using design and technology to solve real-world problems. We do not require a GRE for admissions. UM’s M.F.A. in Interactive Media admissions are based on a comprehensive process that evaluates every application on the basis of the individual’s achievements, creativity, and potential. We seek students who will both thrive in and contribute to the University of Miami’s Interactive Media program.

The School of Communication Office of Graduate Admissions manages applications for the M.F.A. in Interactive Media.

Please contact socgrad@miami.edu if you encounter difficulties applying or have questions about our application process.

Deadlines

February 1st: Early decision

July 15th: Final deadline

Applications open September 1 of this year, and close July 15th of the start year.

Requirements

  • A Bachelor’s degree from a university in the United States or equivalent from a foreign institution.
  • Demonstrated English-proficiency for students whose native language is not English – a minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL or a minimum score of 7 on the IELTS.
  • A portfolio or a GRE.

Application Process

Step 1: Apply

To apply you need:

  • Statement of purpose
    A 500-word typed essay submitted during the online application
  • Application Fee
    Pay the $85 non-refundable application fee. The fee can be paid when you submit your application online.
  • Three letters of recommendation
    You will need three letters of recommendation from individuals who can assess your potential for graduate study. Please have their email address handy during the application process.

Step 2: Portfolio or GRE

Students must submit a portfolio.

Hard-copy or USB portfolios may also be mailed to the address below. Please note that we do not return portfolios or USB sticks. Students may choose to submit their GRE score if they don’t have a portfolio. Submitting a GRE instead of a portfolio will not affect their chances of getting accepted. Students may also submit both their GRE and portfolio. Our institution code for the GRE is #5815 and the department code is #4599.


Step 3: Transcripts

Students should send their transcripts from all universities and colleges to the Graduate Studies Office (see address below).
Note for International Students: Our Graduate Studies Office sends all international transcripts to the University of Miami International Student Services for review prior to being considered for admission. To allow sufficient time to process international applications, please submit the transcripts at least three months prior to the final deadline.

Graduate Studies Office UM School of Communication
5100 Brunson Drive, Suite 4002
Attention: Kesha Wimbley
Coral Gables, FL 33146

Additional Information

Portfolio Requirements

As an applicant to the University of Miami M.F.A. in Interactive Media, you are encouraged to submit a portfolio. We look for individuals who are highly motivated and who demonstrate the ability to succeed in a highly competitive creative program.

The portfolio you present will vary based on your own experiences, interests, education, and training. You may submit a broad-based portfolio containing examples of work from a variety of media or a more focused portfolio. Applicants should submit 5-15 examples of your work. For work that you developed as a team, please indicate the role you played in the project. The portfolio should include work samples that showcase your creativity, as well as the skills and media you have learned. It should also highlight your ability to communicate ideas.

International Students

A TOEFL score of 100 or more is required from all international students and who did not receive a four-year undergraduate education from an institution where English is the official language of instruction. TOEFL scores must be sent to us directly from the Educational Testing Services (ETS). Our ETS institution code is #5815. We require a minimum TOEFL score of 100 for consideration. 

Tuition Information

Tuition and fees

The Interactive Media Program at the University of Miami is a 45 credit program. Tuition and fees vary from year to year. Please consult this page for current tuition rates.

Tuition Awards

Tuition awards are available for exceptional students who complete their application by the February 1st deadline and will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis. Awarding considerations will be based on both merit and/or need basis.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate Assistantships are available to a limited number of students based on maintaining minimum GPA and advanced computing, design, or organizational skills. The assignment of assistantships will be made on the basis of qualifications for each position. All applicants who apply by the Feb 1st deadline are automatically considered for an assistantship.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to students applying for the Interactive Media Program. Applying for financial aid will not hinder your application, regardless of your citizenship. At the University of Miami, financial aid is managed by the Office of Financial Aid, we strongly encourage you to contact them regardless of your financial situation as breaks may be available to you.

For more information visit the University of Miami Office of Financial Assistance


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