School of Music, Theatre and Dance at the University of Michigan
U

Master of Arts in Media Arts

The application deadline for most 2023-24 programs was December 1. See the Graduate Admissions page for specific degree application deadlines.

The MA in Media Arts strives to develop artists and technologists committed to expanding the boundaries of artistic expression through digital media. This is a multi-disciplinary program integrating music, engineering, technology, and art.

Curriculum

The Master of Arts in Media Arts requires a minimum of 36 credits. Coursework to include:

Media Arts:

  • Immersion & Enculturation
  • Engineering Applications of Media Technology
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Electives areas of study include:

  • Interactive media design
  • Music technology
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Music performance with electronics
  • New interfaces for musical expression
  • Sound and video art installation
  • Acoustic and electro-acoustic music composition
  • Sound engineering
  • Software design for music and audio
  • Psychoacoustics Music
  • Sound for Film cognate courses

Final Project:

Thesis Candidates complete a comprehensive thesis that usually consists of two parts: a technology-enhanced performance of original work and a written thesis that documents the performance.

Courses

SMTD offers a wide variety of courses across all disciplines.

Faculty


Jason Corey

Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and Associate Professor of Music
Performing Arts Technology

John Granzow

Chair of Performing Arts Technology (Fall 2022) and Associate Professor of Music

Alvin Hill

SMTD Events & Instructional Technology Manager and Adjunct Lecturer

Sile O’Modhrain

Chair of Performing Arts Technology (Winter 2023) and Associate Professor of Music
Performing Arts Technology

Zeynep Özcan

Assistant Professor of Music, PAT
Performing Arts Technology

Brehm Technology Suite

Serving as the community hub for PAT students, faculty, and collaborators, this concentrated suite of technologically-rich facilities has had a transformative effect on the PAT Department—building community and supporting a broad range of creative activities.

Performance Opportunities

From large ensembles in celebrated concert halls to chamber groups in intimate recital spaces, performance opportunities across all disciplines abound, with nearly 900 student performances each academic year. Whether your focus is on early, classical, or contemporary music, whether your passion is for jazz, electronic, or world music, there is an ensemble—or in many cases, multiple ensembles—to suit your interests, including specific opportunities for percussion, piano, and organ & carillon. For students in theatre & drama, musical theatre, dance, and opera, opportunities abound in both professionally produced and student-run presentations.

Recitals

Recitals

Across all disciplines, students perform and study with their peers in studio classes and perform for the public in solo student recitals and studio recitals.

Collaborative

Collaborative Piano

Collaborative Piano students work with vocalists and instrumentalists throughout SMTD.

Chamber Music

Chamber Music

The thriving chamber music scene at SMTD offers students nearly limitless options to perform, innovate, and collaborate in small, self-driven, and diverse ensembles.

Large Ensembles

Large Ensembles

SMTD ensembles offer numerous concerts each season, performing notable works in the traditional canon as well as abundant newly commissioned works.

Explore our Campus

Meet the people who make up this dynamic community.

Apply Now

Most applications for 2022-2023 are due by December 1 - check for exact dates on the appropriate admissions page below.

Program Costs, Financial Aid & Scholarships

Explore the many options available to make Michigan an affordable choice.

 

Questions?