Video and Media Design Carnegie Mellon University

Overview

The Video and Media Design programme at Carnegie Mellon University offers a comprehensive education in the integration of digital media and live performance. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that balances technical proficiency with artistic exploration within the renowned School of Drama.

This course is designed for those who wish to master the art of projection mapping, content creation, and media systems for the stage. By participating in an ambitious season of theatrical productions, learners gain hands-on experience in designing and producing complex visual environments under the guidance of expert faculty.

The interdisciplinary nature of the department ensures that students are not limited to a single medium.

Why Video and Media Design at Carnegie Mellon University?

Choosing this programme means joining an institution celebrated for its pioneering research and creative excellence. The School of Drama provides access to world-class facilities, including the Frank-Ratchye STUDIO for Creative Inquiry, which fosters innovative research at the intersection of art and technology.

The university’s distinctive teaching features include a strong emphasis on student-designed productions. This allows undergraduates to take full creative responsibility for their work, supported by a network of professional staff and faculty members who are leaders in the global media design industry.

Furthermore, the programme offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing students to pursue double majors or minors in diverse fields such as Computer Science, Global Studies, History, or Art. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that graduates possess a versatile skill set applicable to a wide range of professional sectors.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 67020 per year
• National fee: USD 67020 per year
• Local fee: USD 67020 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded foundation in theatrical design while allowing for individual specialisation. Modules may include:

• Video and Media Design
• Media, Content, and XR
• Global Studies
• History
• Computer Science
• Art
• Theatrical Production
• Mixed Reality Solutions

Careers with Video and Media Design

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a variety of roles within the entertainment and technology industries. The ever-expanding professional applications for media design ensure that alumni find success in diverse fields ranging from Broadway productions to digital media agencies.

Common career paths include becoming a media designer, content creator, or XR integrator. Many former students have gone on to work as film studio designers or specialists in rehabilitation centre visualisations, demonstrating the broad utility of the skills acquired during their studies at the university.

The programme’s focus on professional-grade production opportunities ensures that students graduate with a robust portfolio. This practical experience is highly valued by employers in the live event, documentary film, and immersive technology sectors worldwide.