Digital Media Studies (BA)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Digital Media Studies (BA) at VIU International is designed for curious minds at the intersection of communication, culture, and technology. You will explore how digital media shapes our world, developing a critical understanding of its impact and a practical skillset for creating compelling digital content. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students interested in fields like web production, interactive communications, and digital audio-visual creation, preparing you for a dynamic career landscape where digital fluency is paramount.

You will study this Bachelor of Arts full-time on campus over four years, engaging with a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Your studies will encompass introductory courses in digital media and media studies, progressing to specialized areas such as web production, user experience design, and interactive motion media. Through projects and coursework, you will develop your abilities in digital media literacy, research methods, and potentially a senior digital media project, graduating with a robust portfolio and the confidence to pursue roles in multimedia production, digital communication, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of digital media, encompassing its history, theory, and practical application. Students will engage with foundational concepts in media studies and communication, alongside hands-on training in web production, interactive design, and digital audio and video. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics, including user experience design, digital social narratives, game design, and documentary filmmaking, culminating in a senior project that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

1 Year 1

Introduction to Digital Media
Introduction to Media Studies and Communication
History of Communication Compulsory
Emerging Digital Communications Compulsory
Popular Culture and Mass Media Compulsory

2 Year 2

Interactive Communications
Media, Audience and Society
Web Production I Compulsory
Scripting for Dynamic Digital Media Compulsory
Interactive Motion Media Compulsory
Introduction to Game Engines Compulsory
Digital Audio I Compulsory
Digital Audio II Compulsory
Digital Video I Compulsory
Digital Video II Compulsory
Promotion, Persuasion and Propaganda Compulsory
Understanding Television Compulsory
Global Popular Culture Genres Compulsory
Introduction to Game Studies Compulsory

3 Years 3 and 4

Digital Media Literacy
Research Methods in Media Studies
Web Production II: Presentation and Accessibility Compulsory
Designing User Experiences Compulsory
Digital Social Narratives Compulsory
Interactive Imagery Compulsory
Foundations of Game Design Compulsory
Advanced Topics in Digital Media Technology Compulsory
Digital Identities Compulsory
Advanced Interactive Motion Media Compulsory
Advanced Documentary I: Pre-Production Compulsory
Advanced Documentary II: Filming and Production Compulsory
Advanced Documentary III: Post-Production and Distribution Compulsory
Senior Digital Media Project Compulsory
Studies in Global Media Compulsory
Making the News Compulsory
Documenting Culture Compulsory
Film about Media Compulsory
Studies in Canadian Media Compulsory
Music, Culture, and Technology Compulsory
Public Relations, Advocacy and the Media Compulsory
Technology and Identity Compulsory
Media and Cultural Studies Compulsory
Independent Project Compulsory
Senior Media Studies Project Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 71,515.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,167.00 - USD 3,901.00
Transport USD 781.00 - USD 1,214.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,041.00 - USD 1,561.00
Estimated Total USD 3,989.00 - USD 6,676.00

Living cost estimates are based on Nanaimo campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

75%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising Finance & OperationsBrand ManagementClient Services & Account ManagementCorporate Training & DevelopmentCybersecurity & Network SecurityEducation Policy & AdministrationEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringHigher Education & Universities

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

Cloudhead Games

Electronic Arts

Microsoft

Pattison Media

Prime Software Consulting

Simon Fraser University

Why Study Digital Media Studies (BA) at Vancouver Island University (VIU)

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Vancouver Island University (VIU) in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Digital Media Studies (BA) at Vancouver Island University (VIU)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. They can also work on campus without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English language requirements based on tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For instance, a Duolingo overall score of 125 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as writers, web developers, multimedia producers, teachers, and entrepreneurs.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program explores the intersection of communication, culture, and technology. Students take courses in Digital Media and Media Studies to develop vital skills applicable in various occupational fields.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Digital Media Studies (BA) program has an intake month in September. Prospective students should prepare to start their studies at that time.
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