Arizona State University Offering First Online Master's for Graphics Professionals

PHOENIX, Ariz. — Graphics professionals in Arizona and around the world can earn an ASU Master of Science in Technology, with a concentration in Graphic Information Technology, from the comfort of their own home or office, beginning in January 2006.

The two-year, 11-course degree program will be delivered online. The degree targets graphics professionals, supervisors and managers in a graphics or technology-oriented area, military personnel, government employees, and graphics or technology educators who need advanced expertise in administering and managing digital content.

Dr. Thomas Schildgen, chair of the Department of Technology Management at ASU"s Polytechnic campus explained, "Students will learn to analyze digital content, which includes creating, designing, manipulating, examining, researching, marketing, educating, programming, and professionally presenting in a cross-media environment. The curriculum addresses management strategies and training personnel to adapt to a rapidly changing industry."

Students come to the online program with expertise in digital photography, Web design and development, print technology, multimedia, informational graphics, graphic sales and management, technical and scientific visualization, or other creative or technical backgrounds.

Prospective students can register now for this degree, which launches in January 2006. Students must apply to the Division of Graduate Studies, http://www.asu.edu/graduate. Although the degree is online, students will be asked to meet for a two day cohort orientation at ASU"s Polytechnic campus in Mesa before classes begin, again after the first year, and at the end of the two years to defend their thesis or applied project and participate in commencement ceremonies. A GRE is not required; however, a separate application to the Online MS Degree (GIT) is required.

The degree will be offered through a partnership of the College of Technology and Applied Sciences at the Polytechnic campus and the School of Extended Education.

For more information, contact professors La Verne Abe Harris, LVHarris@asu.edu, (480) 727-1105 or Jon M. Duff, jmduff@asu.edu, (480) 727-1015.