College of Imaging Arts &amp; Sciences

Ceramics (Undergraduate)

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Overview

A small, quality-driven program, the Ceramics and Ceramic Sculpture program has a deep focus on intellectual development, technical skill, and practical knowledge. The ultimate goal is to create an environment where intellectual discourse and craftsmanship can thrive. The studio supports a range of fundamental topics within ceramics, such as throwing, glazing, and firing, and emphasizes personal development with individual critiques and group discussions.

The program emphasizes practical training and education in preparation for ceramics-related employment. You will learn how to operate a studio business and maintain equipment, manage galleries, teach, and interface with community projects. You will also be exposed to a wide scope of visual arts and study their cultural relevance, through weekly seminars, visiting artists, trips to museums, and attendance at the National Ceramics Conference every spring.

Glass (Undergraduate)

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Overview

An intimate and creative area of study, the Glass program focuses on comprehensive instruction, exposing students to artistic perspectives and opinions. The curriculum fosters effective artistic expression by teaching both techniques and idea realization within the field of glass. Foundations courses will assist you in finding your voice and empower you to find a personal definition for your work. In this program you will study the fundamentals of blowing, stained glass, casting and sand carving. Idea generation, development, execution, and presentation are also explored. Self-promotion, gallery interaction, and business practices are especially emphasized, allowing you to graduate fully prepared to begin your career.

Metalcrafts & Jewelry Design (Undergraduate)

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Overview

Within a rich and diverse environment, the Metalcrafts and Jewelry Design program focuses on fostering a learning environment in which you will be exposed to and learn about metalsmithing techniques and design. In this program you will have the opportunity to learn about hollowware, jewelry, sculpture and furniture within the metals environment. Distinguished faculty will assist you in building skills for life after graduation, such as soldering, fabrication, stone setting, silversmithing, forging and casting. You will also develop drawing and rendering skills in order to enhance your design ideas and artistic methods. During your final year in the program, you will culminate your studies by presenting your work in a senior exhibition. As a graduate of this program, you will have developed a strong body of work, a portfolio, and a resume, which will assist you in a successful transition towards achieving your goals and objectives.

Furniture Design (Undergraduate)

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Overview Facilities

The Furniture Design program at the School for American Crafts will engage you in the pursuit of your creative interests while providing a compressive technical background in contemporary woodworking. This program focuses on technical expertise, freeing you to investigate your full range of creative expression and professional interests. Our carefully-sequenced training begins with a firm foundation in the use and maintenance of hand tools, proceeding on to more advanced tools and topics in construction and design.

In addition to the intensive Wood Studio, you will gain experience in drawing, fundamental design issues, concept development, art history and business practices. The program also emphasizes self-promotion, professionalism, portfolio development, gallery interactions, and studio operations. During your senior year, you will culminate your work in an exhibition at an off-campus gallery. Upon graduation, you will feel confident in transitioning from student to active craftsman in this fine art field.

Illustration (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

The Illustration program will prepare you for the communication arts industry by helping you to develop traditional drawing skills, teaching you the latest digital imaging technologies, and giving you practice in sculpted dimensional methods. You will develop your individual style and learn conceptual skills to produce effective illustrations for advertising, book publishing, editorial art, and many other applications. Many of our studios have computers integrated into their workspaces, with large computer labs always available. The Illustration faculty provides exceptional professional preparation and exciting learning opportunities, and shares with students its involvement in research and scholarship. Recent graduates of the program have found employment as illustrators in a wide variety of industries including book and magazine publishing, retail and product manufacturing, graphic design and advertising, digital and stop-motion animation studio work, and museum illustration.

Top Careers

Newspaper Illustrator
Book Illustrator
Magazine Illustrator
Advertising Illustrator
Freelance Illustrator
Art/Creative Director
Illustration/Art Editor
Graphic/Illustrative Designer
Comic Book Artist
Graphic Novel Artist
Animation Stills Artist
Movie Visual Development Artist
Set/Background Artist
Storyboard Artist
Character Designer
Web Illustration Artist
Gaming Attributes Illustrator
3D Modeler/Texture Artist
Technical Illustrator
Diorama/Display Artist
Caricature Artist
Portrait Artist
Mural Artist
Window Dresser/Artist
Illustration/Art Educator

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Fine Arts Studio (Undergraduate)

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Overview

The undergraduate Fine Arts Studio program enables you to realize your artistic aspirations through the study of painting, non-toxic printmaking, sculpture and new forms. You may also combine courses from these areas to gain a more personalized studio experience. The program provides the depth of involvement necessary for you to understand the possibilities of visual expression and to gain a technical mastery of fine arts media. Students will have the opportunity to achieve excellence through diversity and vitality in their creative experiences. Faculty members are highly active, nationally exhibiting artists who are committed to using different approaches to teach both skills and major themes in contemporary art and art history. Graduates are employed in the fields of art therapy, art criticism, art restoration, gallery and museum management, set and display design, master printmaking, and sculptural casting and foundry fabrication; in art auction houses for their knowledge of contemporary and historical art; and as art educators.

Medical Illustration (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

By combining drawing and science, the Medical Illustration program will teach you to translate anatomical and surgical sketches into instructional illustrations to visually support the allied health and medical educational fields. The program spans the full range of artistic media to produce a wide variety of images. Through our collaboration with area hospitals, you will be able to obtain first-hand experience in real-life medical situations, in addition to your on-campus access to a state-of-the-art human anatomy laboratory. Computers and other digital technology are integrated into the studio environment to facilitate the creation of sophisticated images along with well-designed, interactive educational media displays. This program is one of a very few undergraduate medical illustration programs offered in the country that prepare you to join the medical team as an allied health professional.

Top Careers

Medical Illustrator
2D Medical Animator
3D Computer Modeler/Animator
Medical Interactive/Interface Designer
Medical Web Designer
Medical Legal Illustrator/Litigation Support Specialist
Medical Book/Texts Illustrator
Information Graphics Illustrator
Medical Editorial Illustrator
Medical Model Designer
Prosthesis Designer/Anaplastologist
Forensics Illustrator
Ophthalmologic Illustrator
Medical Illustration Educator

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Graphic Design (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

As a student in the graphic design program, you will learn and practice communicating ideas and information through printed, environmental, and digital presentation by integrating concepts, typography and imagery to express messages that interest, inform, and persuade intended audiences. By using research, critical thinking, creativity and a range of problem-solving approaches, you will explore ways to clarify complex visual communication problems within the constraints of time, space, budget, and technology. Within this program you will be exposed to areas of study that include publication design, signage and environmental design, packaging design, information design, branding and identity design, and web and interactive media. You will also have access to extraordinary resources like the RIT Graphic Design Archives, Cary Graphic Arts Collection and the Vignelli Center for Design Studies. As a graduate of this prominent program, you will possess the professional knowledge and skills required to contribute to the graphic design field.

Many of our students take advantage of Co-op and/or internship opportunities that arise. There are also career events and portfolio presentations that bring in professionals to view student work.

Top Careers

Graphic Designer
Asst. Art Director
Art Director
Communication Designer
Creative Director
Web Designer
Interactive Designer
Marketing Communications Designer

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Industrial Design (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

As a student in the Industrial Design program, you will be exposed to the theory, process, and practice of designing products and systems to influence the ways that we interact with people, places and things. You will closely examine graphic visualization, technical drawing, model making and prototype development, allowing you to obtain the skills needed to conceptualize, design, and develop new and improved products. You will study the complex relationships that exist between culture and commerce, as well as ways to enhance our worldview and improve our lives. Your aesthetic sensitivity, technical competence, and analytical thought will be developed and applied to meet the challenge of designing products for human needs. The course of studies in this program includes product, exhibit, and furniture design.

As an industrial design student, you will have exceptional resources available to you, such as advanced computer labs for 3D modeling and rapid prototyping, the Material Connexion Online Library, the Inventables Material Library, and the Vignelli Center for Design Studies. You will also have the opportunity to obtain high-profile internships at noted design firms. When you graduate from this exciting program, you'll be prepared to work within the industrial design industry to create meaningful and well-designed products.

Top Careers

Industrial Designer
Product Designer
Exhibit Designer
Package Designer
Apparel Designer
Toy Designer
Interaction Designer
Materials Specialist
Ergonomics Specialist
User Interface Designer
User Experience Designer

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Interior Design (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

Accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), this program promotes an innovative educational community that balances expression, imaginative problem-solving, aesthetic understanding, professional responsibility, and creativity. As an Interior Design student, you will learn to creatively integrate materials, function, aesthetics and form within interior space. You will develop an understanding of, and sensitivity to, interior design history and technology, environment, economics, architecture, and societal needs, by exploring projects that will develop your aesthetic and technical proficiencies, all the while preparing you for professional certification and licensing.

Through the use of color, lighting, furniture, fixtures and finishes, interior design supports accessibility, environmental sustainability and the well-being of occupants. You will learn to be a designer who can communicate effectively within your discipline, who will nourish a life–long attitude of inquiry, and who will strive to make a positive impact on society. Graduates of the Interior Design program become designers who positively impact the places in which we live, work, and play.

Top Careers

Interior Designer
Senior Designer
Director of Interior Design
Creative Director
Visual Director

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3D Digital Graphics (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

3D Digital Graphics (3DDG) prepares you to use three-dimensional computer modeling for applications such as motion and broadcast graphics, game art and design, medical and scientific simulations, data visualizations, architectural and engineering modeling, instructional multimedia, accident reconstruction, and more. The curriculum integrates traditional art and design skills, the utilization of commercial 3D software, and design principles related to time, motion, and lighting. You will also study research methods and a range of problem-solving principles, and develop your critical thinking and creative capacities. Most important, as a graduate of the 3DDG program, you will have the ability to adapt to the constantly-changing needs of the industry in order to create 3D models and simulations for a wide variety of industries.

Top Careers

Technical Artist
Texture Artist
Visualization Arts
Lighting TD
Concept Artist
Special Effects Artist
Character Artist
Forensic Animator
User Interface Artist
Rigger
Motion Graphics Artist

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New Media Design (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

The New Media Design and Imaging program offers you a unique course of study in the field of interactive and digital media. You will gain experience in concept development, information architecture, animation, interactive development, digital photography and video, and multimedia. You will also explore design for mobile devices, entertainment multimedia, user-interface design, motion graphics, and other areas of new media, while sharing courses with the New Media Interactive Development program within the Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences. Collaboration between these programs will allow you to experience a truly dynamic interdisciplinary curriculum. As a graduate of the New Media Design and Imaging program, you will be prepared to work in a team-based environment, meeting the growing demand for interactive professionals.

Top Careers

Jr. Visual Designer
Sr. Visual Designer
Creative Director
Interaction Designer
Interactive Designer
Motion Designer
User Experience Designer
3D Designer
Motion Graphics Designer
Web Designer
Production Artist
Mobile Designer
Application Developer
Interactive Developer
Front-End Developer
Back-End Developer
Web Developer

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Animation (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

The 2D animation concentration begins with character design and progresses through dynamics and sequences. Hand drawing on paper or acetate, using a traditional layering technique, or creating elements originally in 2D software applications are the common options. Then shooting on a crane, bulk scanning the drawings into a computer or animating directly in a software application are the usual production techniques.

The 3D Concentration teaches students all aspects of computer animation. Modeling in Polygons, NURBs and Subdivision surfaces is taught with an emphasis placed on the need to strike a balance between heavy detail and economy of animation. Other areas covered include, character rigging, set construction, dynamics, character animation, particles, and compositing. The Stop Motion concentration takes student through all aspects involved in creating stop motion films. Students are taught animating technique, wire armature construction and set construction.

Top Careers

Art Department Coordinator
Art Director
Assistant Producer
Camera TD
CG Lighting TD
CG Painter
Character Animator
Character Modeler
Colorist
Construction Artist
Creative Director
Creature Modeler
Digital Paint Artist
Director
Editor
First Assistant Director
First Assistant Sound Editor
Foley Artist
International Marketing
Layout Artist
Lead Compositing TD
Lead Modeler
Line Producer
Match Move Supervisor
Post Production Supervisor
President and CEO
Previs Supervisor
Producer
Production Assistant
Production Manager
Rigger (3D)
Roto Artist
Rough Inbetweener
Script Editor
Senior Animator
Senior Modeler(3D)
Sound Editor
Sound Recordist
Story Artist
Tech Consultant
Tech Consultant
Texture Artist
VFX Compositor
Visual Development Artist
VP Marketing
VP Operations
Writer

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Production (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

In this Production program, you will gain the experience necessary to create innovative and creative works of cinema. With intelligent and insightful faculty teaching in state-of-the-art facilities, you will have an unparalleled educational experience. From film and digital production to animation and scriptwriting, you will gain a truly individualistic understanding of the moving image. You may be involved in creating fiction narratives, documentaries, or commercial and conceptual/experimental films. You will also be able to explore the specialized tracks of writing/directing, cinematography, sound design, editing, producing, art direction and special effects. By graduating with a BFA in film production, you will have experienced a program unlike any other film program.

Top Careers

Actor
Art Department Coordinator
Art Director
Assistant Producer
Best Boy Electric
Best Boy Grip
Camera Assistant
Camera Operator
Camera TD
Cinematographer/DP
Color Scientist
Colorist
Construction Artist
Creative Director
Digital Image Technician
Director
Dolphin Technician
Editor
Electrician
First Assistant Director
First Assistant Sound Editor
Foley Artist
Gaffer
Generator Operator
Imaging Engineer
International Marketing
Key Construction
Key Grip
Layout Artist
Lead Compositing TD
Line Producer
Match Move Supervisor
On-line editor
Post Production Supervisor
President and CEO
Previs Supervisor
Producer
Production Assistant
Production Manager
Prop Master
Property Manager
Rigger (production)
Robotic Camera Operator
Script Editor
Second Electrician
Set Dresser
Shop Man
Sound Editor
Sound Recordist
Story Artist
Studio Electric
Studio Mix
Tech Consultant
Telecine Operator
Unit Manager
VFX Compositor
Visual Development Artist
VP Marketing
VP Operations
Writer

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Motion Picture Science (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

The RIT Motion Picture Science program is one of the first of its kind in the nation, providing a science and engineering education in the fundamental imaging technologies used for the motion picture industry. By joining a core curriculum in practical film-making from the College of Imaging Arts and Sciences and image science from the College of Science, this program trains students in the art and science of feature film, television, and animation production. Topics include imaging physics, motion picture engineering, film and digital image capture, film scanning, digital image manipulation, color science, visual effects, and digital and traditional projection. Further, new facilities at RIT provide students hands-on experience with the same equipment being used in major motion picture production today.

The Motion Picture Science BS degree offered by RIT is fairly unique in the undergraduate landscape. It is best described as an engineering degree with an emphasis on filmmaking. Students will spend 2/3 of their time in math, science and technology courses alongside other engineering and science majors on campus. Specifically, Motion Picture Science students benefit from direct access to the RIT Center for Imaging Science, a world-class research and teaching organization focused on imaging physics, imaging systems and astrophysics. For the other 1/3 of the undergraduate experience, Motion Picture Science students take filmmaking classes right alongside BFA students in film and animation. This gives them a chance to practice the art of filmmaking while gaining appreciation for the industry they are training for. It also provides an experience no other engineering major will get.

For students interested in the rigor of a technical degree, but still wanting more opportunity to develop skills in filmmaking, cinematography, sound design, color correction, drawing, 3D animation, and other film crafts, there are at least 7 spots in the 4-year Motion Picture Science course sequence for elective classes above and beyond the already required BFA classes in introductory filmmaking. Many students take advantage of these openings to gain additional experience in the practical application of their creative skills, complementing the technical curriculum.
Upon graduation, Motion Picture Science students will be trained to work across a wide spectrum of the motion picture industry, from research engineering roles at technology providers like Sony, Panasonic, Kodak and others to technical post-production positions such as digital color correction, sound design, visual effects and more. There are also extensive opportunities for internship and co-op while students are still in school. Students have already participated in a wide range of internships at organizations such as Technicolor, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and numerous post-production companies across the country.

Top Careers

Post-Production Engineer
Imaging Engineer
Color Scientist
Imaging Scientist
Software Designer
Colorist
Special Effects Artist
Compositor
Technical Cinematographer
Sound Designer
Digital Imaging Technician
Data Wrangler
Assistant Cameraman

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Advertising Photography (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers Facilities

The Advertising Photography program prepares you for a diverse and rewarding career in the field of visual communications. You will learn to create photographs and moving media for many advertising uses, including national and trade commercial publications, editorial photography as seen in magazines and other publications, and real-life business applications.

The program provides flexibility and specialization within the course curriculum. Advanced courses allow you to pursue a specific direction in your work, such as still life, portraiture, architecture, or fashion. The flexibility of the program also enables you to take elective courses from other programs across the college, such as graphic design, print media, or fine art photography, in order to enrich your personal expression. You will also study the inner workings of the photographic and imaging industries in both required and elective courses, orienting you to the nature of working for a photography studio, or perhaps running your own.

The faculty consists of both full-time and part-time professors—all of whom have had extensive hands-on experience nationally and/or locally as professional photographers. You will work collaboratively with them to conceive and execute cutting-edge and strategic images and moving media that have the potential to be used in the advertising industry. As an advertising photography student you will build a strong professional portfolio, and you can expect a fast-paced and exciting career in this ever-prominent industry.

Top Careers

Advertising Photographer
Editorial Photographer
Art Director
Photo Editor
Image Retoucher
Studio Manager
Studio Photographer
Still Life Photographer
Food Photographer
Portrait Photographer
Fashion Photographer
Art Buyer
Sports Photographer

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Biomedical Photographic Communications (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

Biomedical Photographic Communications is a unique photography program within SPAS, blending hands-on imaging with science photography. While obtaining a strong foundation in the sciences, you will look beyond what the naked eye can see. New photographic and imaging technologies can produce media that address the communication needs of the medical and science industry. In addition to capturing the unseen, you will develop professional practices in this highly-specialized field of photography by working with innovative faculty to create thought-provoking imagery. You will learn proper composition and lighting, work with microscopes and retinal cameras, and acquire the technical ability to properly display the medical information included in printed materials and online venues.

This program is the only one of its kind in the United States. Its flexible curriculum prepares you for a photographic and imaging career that will find you working in some science-related institution or establishment, such as an ophthalmology or forensic laboratory, pharmaceutical company, health care or medical research center, or medical imaging company. You will spend ten weeks in a professional co-op job related to your field of interest within biomedical photography. Upon graduation, your areas of expertise within the electronic imaging industry will include close-up and high magnification photography, studio lighting for small objects, medical ethics, ophthalmic diagnostic imaging, desktop and web publishing, and photographing human and plant biology.

Top Careers

Ophthalmic Photographer
Forensic Photographer
Surgical Photographer
Photomicrographer
Medical Photographer

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Photojournalism (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

The Photojournalism program will inspire you to document the emotions, drama, suspense, and exhilaration of real-life events and people, for diverse media outlets, including print (newspaper, magazines, and books) and electronic (television and web-based) media. As storytellers, photojournalists create images, both still and moving, that document the history of our culture, evoking both the momentous and the everyday circumstances of contemporary life and society.

The success of the Photojournalism program is due to its extensive curriculum, comprised of photojournalism core courses and special-topic electives. You may take courses in multimedia that include sound, video-gathering and editing. This combination of courses, both required and elective, will offer you unique opportunities to develop a lifelong career in photojournalism. To date, RIT photojournalism alumni include 10 Pulitzer Prize-winning image-makers.

As a photojournalism student, you may participate in professional organizations such as the student chapter of the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA). In addition to attending regional and national conferences sponsored by NPPA, you may also contribute to the creation of special publications centered on community activity and awareness, and provide staff support to RIT's student-run magazine, The Reporter.

Top Careers

Freelance Photographer
Sports Photographer
Photojournalist
News Photographer
News Videographer

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Imaging & Photographic Technology (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

The Imaging and Photographic Technology program is a unique, application-based area of study designed to prepare you for a wide variety of imaging careers in technical, industrial, corporate, governmental or scientific environments.

The success of this program lies in its interdisciplinary curriculum, blending a foundation in contemporary professional photography with comprehensive courses in technology, science and engineering applications. You are able to explore physics, chemistry, sensitometry, color science, measurement and management, imaging systems and optics. As an Imaging and Photographic Technology graduate, you will be professionally prepared to engage the evolving world of imaging applications and technology.

As an extension to the content-rich curriculum, you will have access to several application-based facilities that house computer-controlled cameras, lasers, electron microscopes, high-speed cameras, stroboscopes, and sophisticated image recording cameras and systems, all of which will enable you to more broadly explore this exciting field.

Prior to graduation, you will spend one ten-week session (most likely in the summer) in a paid, professional co-op work assignment, in order to better prepare you for your career. As a graduate of this program, your work options within the imaging industry will include governmental agencies such as NASA, the FBI, the and the U.S. Treasury; corporate entities such as Adobe, Konica, Calumet, Hewlett Packard (HP), and Eastman Kodak; and industrial powerhouses, including DuPont and General Electric.

Top Careers

Forensics Specialist
Imaging Professional
Technology Specialist
Photo and Imaging Company Representative
Imaging Software Professional

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Visual Media (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers

The Visual Media program allows the student to integrate the graphic communications professions of photography, graphic design and print media. This program will prepare you for a career as a visual media specialist, training you to fulfill current and future employment demands for photographically-skilled professionals who can work effectively with graphic designers, print media specialists, and multi-media professionals.

The Visual Media curriculum emphasizes photographic proficiency, both in photographic and digital imaging techniques, and has a specialized focus on graphic design or print media. You will gain real-world business experience through a series of courses exploring applied management processes, including the development of business plans, project management skills, production planning, and personnel practices. As a student in this program, you will also able to take several college-wide electives to broaden your interests.

This program is ideal for you if you wish to experience various aspects of the graphics industry. You will be strongly encouraged to spend time in internships to strengthen your on-campus education. Upon graduation, you can be a diversely-skilled visual media professional, going on to an exciting career in photography, graphic design, print media (including desktop publishing, photo retouching and workflow), or advertising.

Top Careers

Graphics Editor
Photo Retoucher
Web and Print Designer
Graphic Designer
Business Graphics
Desktop Publisher
Advertising Project Manager

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School of Media Sciences

Media Arts and Technology (Undergraduate)

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Overview Careers Facilities

Media Arts and Technology is a unique program that reflects the convergence of technologies that allow content to be created, formatted, stored, and then shared via computer-based publications, printed material, online services, and various forms of interactive media. This approach enables our students to build skills not only in traditional publishing but also in database management, new media production, networking, and mobile communications. The program is designed to provide you with the ability to use various content types across multiple output medias.

The course of study also allows you to explore other educational areas on campus, such as the School of Design, the Department of Information Technology, and the Vignelli Center for Design Studies. Concentrations within the major include Advertising and Media Strategy, Contemporary Publishing, Content Management, Digital Imaging and Premedia, Print Production, Print Quality, and 3D Computer Graphics.

As part of the curriculum, you will spend two ten-week sessions in a paid cooperative experience with a related business, learning the ropes of the printing and publishing industries. These real-life experiences within the industry will assist you in your ultimate job search. Upon graduation, our students can work with photographers, graphic designers, advertisers, and publishers to create cross-media communications that inform, entertain and persuade others. Graduates have found positions in advertising production, digital imaging, print production, and web design and development.

Top Careers

Desktop Publisher
Visual Designer
Exhibit Designer
Pre-Media Specialist
Content Manager
Advertising Design
Database Manager
Social Media Marketer
Print Media Marketer
Type Designer
Color Specialist
Web Developer
Marketing Specialist
Brand Management Specialist
Print Buyer
Quality Control Manager

Top Employers

School of Media Sciences

Print Media (Minor) (Other)

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Overview Careers Facilities

The purpose of the Print Media Minor is to introduce undergraduate students outside of the School of Print Media to the world of publishing. You will be able to customize the minor to fit your interests or career goals by specializing in one of several areas, such as Advertising and Media Strategy, Contemporary Publishing, Digital Imaging and Premedia, or Print Production, or, you may take courses from multiple areas.

As a student in some other academic discipline, you will learn about designing and distributing content in the world of cross-media communications, including both electronic and printed media. For instance, as a business student, you may opt for learning about the role of advertising in the publishing industry; if you’re studying science, you may choose to gain insight into the materials and processes of print production. By choosing this minor, you will learn about different aspects of the media industry, ultimately giving yourself more diverse career opportunites after graduation.

Top Careers

Desktop Publisher
Visual Designer
Exhibit Designer
Pre-Media Specialist
Content Manager
Advertising Design
Database Manager
Social Media Marketer
Print Media Marketer
Type Designer
Color Specialist
Web Developer
Marketing Specialist
Brand Management Specialist
Print Buyer
Quality Control Manager

Top Employers

Fine Arts Studio (Graduate)

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Overview

The Master of Fine Arts Studio is a two- to three-year program offering an intensive study in contemporary art through painting, non-toxic printmaking, sculpture, new forms, and illustration. You may combine courses from these areas to gain a more personalized studio experience. Your experience will culminate in a cohesive body of work, driven by a thesis proposal, and resulting in a thesis paper and exhibition in the college’s premier Bevier Gallery. The faculty is committed to providing individual direction through critical dialogue and reflection. Students have access to well-equipped studios, including individual, private studio space.

The Fine Arts Studio Painting concentration allows you to explore conceptual and traditional approaches to image content and media-based techniques.

The Fine Arts Studio Non-Toxic Printmaking concentration encompasses advanced intaglio, relief, and Image On® non-toxic printmaking techniques. In this concentration, you will gain a complete understanding of printmaking work methodologies and experimental procedures.

The Fine Arts Studio Sculpture concentration offers both additive and subtractive approaches to sculpture, using a wide variety of materials to generate work. Facilities for assemblage, casting, welding, and woodworking are available for exploring, experimenting, and creating your work.

The Fine Arts Studio New Forms concentration focuses on research strategies involving non-traditional art media and materials for creating concept-based works of art. Unlimited possibilities exist in this concentration for incorporating objects, processes and activities, resulting in combinations of installation art, performance, and kinetic, digital and mechanistic expressions.

The Fine Arts Studio Illustration concentration fuses traditional problem-solving-based illustration with more personal, self-authored forms of pictorial strategies. Here you can develop an extended body of work personified by your individual expression, perhaps involving narrative content. You will be able to work using traditional, digital, or three-dimensional media.

Art Education MST (Visual Arts-All Grades) (Graduate)

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Overview

The Masters of Science In Teaching (MST) Visual Arts – All Grades is a unique, intensive, one-year graduate experience that will prepare you to meet the national, state and regional need for excellent teachers of the visual arts in grades K-12. This Art Education program offers an environment that will nurture and promote a creative approach to teaching the visual arts. The program has a dynamic curriculum, designed to prepare you to become a dedicated art educator who is committed to the teaching of art to all children. Partnerships with area school districts and the local art community are key elements of the program. Throughout the year, you will work alongside faculty in an atmosphere of collaboration and engagement while addressing the fundamental purposes and processes of art education, as well as its social, economic, and cultural impacts. The program emphasizes innovation and creativity in teaching and learning, through research, studio inquiry and community involvement. As a graduate of this program, you will be able to train and encourage future artists, and begin your career in this fulfilling and rewarding profession.

Ceramics (Graduate)

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Overview

A highly personal program, RIT's MFA in Ceramics and Ceramic Sculpture focuses on intellectual and artistic development through an intensive teaching of the aesthetics and techniques of ceramic design. Graduate studio courses, seminar courses and in-depth critiques, in conjunction with thesis planning and implementation, will provide you with a deep understanding of not only your own work, but of the work of other students and peers as well. You will also examine the creativity, perceptions, aesthetics and criticism of the work of contemporary artists and craftspeople in courses and discussions. Thesis reviews will allow you to track your progress towards your final thesis presentation, which is completed when a formal critique and evaluation is given by the thesis committee. The MFA program in Ceramics and Ceramic Sculpture will strengthen and deepen your understanding of the aesthetics, techniques, and theory of this fine art.

Glass (Graduate)

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Overview

The MFA Program in Glass is a two-year program of study, which strives to help you develop your personal creative voice through intensive research, discussion, critique, and experimentation. As a graduate student, you are provided full access to a complete glass facility and individual studio space to strengthen your technique and to practice designing pieces that flourish your personal expression of the medium. Graduate studio courses, seminar courses and in-depth critiques are provided, in conjunction with thesis planning and implementation, to provide you with a deep understanding of this personal craft. You will be exposed to a broad range of critical issues related to the conception and production of art, to inspire and provoke critical reflection and facilitate the development of your thesis exhibition and supporting documentation. As a graduate of this masters program you can expect to move on to be a successful artist in this fine art field.

Metalcrafts & Jewelry Design (Graduate)

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Overview

This two-year masters program is designed to provide you with an opportunity to achieve the highest creative, personal and professional accomplishment in the metals field. The curriculum provides you with a broad exposure to technical and material knowledge, strengthens your philosophical concepts, and broadens your artistic vision. You will be encouraged to evaluate and challenge fundamental standards and to experiment with new ways of thinking. Committed faculty will help facilitate the development of your required thesis, and help you monitor its progress, in order to ready you for your thesis presentation.

Furniture Design (Graduate)

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Overview

The MFA program in Furniture Design is structured arround the individual student’s needs, interests and background. As such, the program seeks to strengthen your techniques, advance your aesthetic and design sensibilities, and hone your own personal expression. The first year of the program will expose you to a broad range of critical issues related to the conception and production of art, inspire and provoke your critical reflection, and facilitate the development of your preliminary thesis topic. In your second year you will propose and fully engage in your thesis project, which will culminate in a major exhibition in the spring.

Graphic Design (Graduate)

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Overview

THIS PROGRAM IS ENDING: PLEASE GO TO OUR NEW MFA VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN program page.
We have merged the Graphic Design and Computer Graphics Design MFA programs into a new, intergrated program.

The Visual Communication Design MFA has 3 option areas: Interaction Design, Visual Communication, and 3D Motion / Digital Graphics.

The program starts Fall of 2013

The graphic design graduate MFA program is a professional course of study that consists of a sequence of courses in advanced visual communication, placing a special emphasis on design thinking, in-depth problem solving, integration of various forms of media and design theory & processes. In a professional studio setting, you will work with faculty and other students to research, develop and implement design solutions that incorporate design theory, design history and criticism, research methods, visual aesthetics, typography, imagery, systems design, information design, ethics and values, project development and evaluation, and cross-disciplinary problem-solving methods. Working with theup-to-date technology and software of the industry, you will learn to create stunning works of both printed and electronic media. You will have the opportunity to take complementary coursework in interactive, web and motion graphics. As a graduate student in graphic design, your coursework and thesis project will incorporate both theory and application, while showcasing final design oriented outcomes. Special lectures, guest speakers, exhibitions, and workshops complement the studio work experience. As a graduate of the program, you can expect to have a deep understanding of graphic design.

Industrial Design (Graduate)

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Overview Careers

The graduate program in Industrial Design offers an in-depth, project-oriented course of study to further develop and define your expertise in industrial design methods and technologies. Design history, issues, research, theory and methods are common topics in graduate courses. In additional studio courses, you will be involved in extensive design work with respect to environmental issues, the meaning of artifacts, and critical analysis. You will use 3D software for product modeling and animation. You also will conduct research and develop a thesis project that you will document in a written thesis report and present in a graduate thesis exhibition. Obtaining your MFA degree in Industrial Design at the RIT School of Design will give you the advanced skills and experience to greatly expand your knowledge base as an industrial designer.

Top Careers

Industrial Designer
Product Designer
Exhibit Designer
Package Designer
Apparel Designer
Toy Designer
Interaction Designer
Materials Specialist
Ergonomics Specialist
User Interface Designer
User Experience Designer

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Imaging Arts, Photography and Related Media (Graduate)

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Overview Facilities

The Imaging Arts Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Photography and Related Media is an advanced course of study in fine art photography, digital imaging, and moving media. The program emphasizes imaging as a fine art practice with the goal of inspiring and nurturing artistic individuality through an extensive study of art practice, criticism and aesthetics.

The MFA program is led by 15 full-time faculty members from the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences and supported by visiting and adjunct faculty, faculty from the School of Art and College of Liberal Arts, and by noted artists, critics, and historians residing in the region. Graduate students work with an abundance of equipment in imaging and printing technologies for traditional, alternative and digital fine art applications. Graduate students have access to dedicated darkrooms, as well as graduate digital labs with up-to-date computers, scanners, software, and printers. A wide variety of shooting studios are also available, along with a dedicated graduate space for experimental activities and displays.

This MFA program prepares students for employment in higher education, museum or gallery work, publishing, digital media, and for careers as fine art image-makers.

Contact Carla Williams, MFA Director, for more program information.

Applied Imaging Systems (Minor) (Other)

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Overview Careers

The Minor in Applied Imaging Systems offers you an immersive introduction to the business and technology of photographic imaging services. Pursuing this minor will enhance the scope of your undergraduate studies, and increase your career opportunities in the photography and imaging industry to include the options of business management, photo-lab operations, technical support, software development, and representing photo- and imaging-related manufacturers.

Some areas of study in this minor are digital imaging capture systems, professional practices, output technologies, color management, and imaging workflows. You can also receive priority placement for student employment in the School of Photographic Arts & Sciences’s professional Imaging Systems Lab, and have the unique opportunity to represent RIT and the School at the Photographic Manufacturers Association's (PMA) annual industry trade show.

Top Careers

Photo Company Representative
Lab Operator
Color Specialist
Printing Operator
Business Manager

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School of Media Sciences

Print Media (Graduate)

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Overview Careers Facilities

The Masters in Print Media program takes full advantage of RIT’s innovative resources by placing students in an integrated environment containing the latest equipment and software used throughout the print and publishing industries. The program consists of a major and minor concentration designed to provide you with the tools and information you'll need for an insightful analysis of industry issues and trends. The program focuses on research methodology and implementing a scientific approach to assist you in producing leading-edge research. The required coursework will give you a solid foundation in cross-media communications, while the minor concentration will allow you to focus on your special interest area, such as packaging, information technology, business, or another relevant subject.

As part of the on-campus Print Media Masters program, you will be required to produce a research thesis that utilizes scientific analysis of a relevant industry problem, issue, or trend. Typically, graduate students complete coursework during the first academic year and then complete the thesis during the second academic year. Upon graduation from this masters program, students successfully find careers in the publishing, printing, advertising, packaging, and equipment manufacturing industries.

Top Careers

Desktop Publisher
Visual Designer
Exhibit Designer
Pre-Media Specialist
Content Manager
Advertising Design
Database Manager
Social Media Marketer
Print Media Marketer
Type Designer
Color Specialist
Web Developer
Marketing Specialist
Brand Management Specialist
Print Buyer

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Furniture Design (Other)

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Overview Careers Facilities

The Associate of Occupational Studies degree in Furniture Design is a highly-focused, two-year course of study. This intensive curriculum enhances the variety of educational options available in RIT's woodworking program. You will be able to learn how to use and care for basic hand tools and begin to explore the technical and visual potential of wood. Over the two-year experience, increasingly sophisticated techniques and design concepts will be introduced. As a student in this program, you will also take courses in two-dimensional design, three-dimensional design, freehand drawing, technical drawing, furniture history and crafts business practices.

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