Overview

The Media Arts and Technology programme at the University of California, Santa Barbara provides a unique interdisciplinary environment for graduate study. This curriculum bridges the gap between technical engineering and the creative arts to foster innovation in digital media and research.

Applicants are expected to hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as music, computer science, or engineering. The department seeks individuals with strong intellectual potential and a curiosity for intermedia art. Students often work on collaborative group projects that merge scientific rigour with artistic expression.

The academic structure allows for various entry points depending on a student's prior qualifications. Those entering with a bachelor's degree can pursue a joint M.Sc. and Ph.D.

Why Media Arts and Technology at the University of California, Santa Barbara?

The institution is renowned for its collaborative research labs and distinctive teaching features that blend multiple departments. Faculty members from both the arts and engineering sectors evaluate applicants, ensuring a diverse and high-calibre cohort. Students benefit from a community focused on the future of digital media.

The department provides various facilities and resources to support advanced research and creative production. By working across traditional boundaries, participants gain access to a wide range of expertise and equipment. This environment encourages the development of new tools and artistic forms that define the modern media landscape.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14430 per year
National fee: USD 14430 per year
Local fee: USD 14430 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to reinforce cross-disciplinary competence through a mix of core and elective coursework. Modules may include:

Media Arts and Technology
Visual Arts
Film and Video
Music
Computer Science
Material Science
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Calculus

Careers with Media Arts and Technology

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles in industries that require a blend of technical and creative skills. Many find success in software development, digital art production, and academic research. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree makes alumni highly sought after by technology firms and creative studios.

The skills acquired during the course allow graduates to lead projects in hardware design, sound engineering, and interactive media. By mastering both the scientific and artistic aspects of technology, students are equipped to innovate in various professional sectors. Employment opportunities often arise in sectors involving digital media, engineering, and the performing arts.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Arts and Technology

Music and Technology

Digital Media Technology and Engineering

Media Signal Processing

Computing with Media Data

Advanced Computer Graphics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-20 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Music Media Studies & Mass Media View 258 other Masters in Media Studies & Mass Media in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

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Other requirements

General requirements

Statement of Purpose

Personal Achievements/Contributions Statement

Resume or Curriculum Vitae

Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended

A music composition portfolio, consisting of scores, recordings, sound works, or other relevant material.

A visual art, architecture, or design portfolio.

Scientific publications.

Technical and/or artistic research papers, project descriptions, and publications.

Documentation of realized interdisciplinary digital media arts projects and other evidence of technological based work and research.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Out-of-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Media Arts and Technology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Barbara

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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