The world of communications is constantly evolving, and the Bachelor of Science in
Interactive Media will prepare you to work in that changing environment. Skilled and
knowledgeable professionals are needed to translate the latest digital technology
into effective communication whether on the Internet, on a phone or tablet, or in
a virtual world. Every business or organization needs experts like Interactive Media
graduates to achieve their objectives. You’ll learn the latest trends, technology
and techniques to target audiences for your employer, customer or client. The Interactive
Media program will prepare you to harness today’s digital technologies with important
foundational skills and knowledge. But what about tomorrow? You’ll be ready.
MTSU freshman says Interactive Media program gave him tools to launch business
East Tennessee native, Jackson Greene, was drawn to MTSU for several reasons, including
its top Media Arts program. “MTSU had all the benefits and amenities of a large school
but still had the small school feel. The Media Arts program was one of the best in
the nation… I Ioved the campus upon my first tour,” he said. In late 2020, while still
a freshman, Greene started a web design and digital marketing agency, Pursuit Digital
LLC. “The Interactive Media program has given me so many tools and learning experiences
in miscellaneous media fields,” Greene said. “The professors have cared about my learning
and do have the experience to back up what they teach. I've taken the skills I have
learned from my coursework and directly applied it to Pursuit Digital LLC. Whether
it is writing headlines, SEO tools, or social media strategy, the Interactive Media
program heavily influences what I do in regards to clients. The program adequately
prepared me to start a successful business, and I am certain it can do the same for
others.”
Murfreesboro native says Interactive Media program sets students up for success
As a Murfreesboro native interested in mass communications, the decision to attend
MTSU was an easy one for Patrick Sams. Majoring in Interactive Media, Sams said he
the variety of classes he took as an Interactive Media major really helped him have
a much broader understanding of digital media as a whole. “While I learned countless
things in the Interactive Media program, such as social media management, web design,
video production skills, and graphic design, I think the biggest skill was setting
myself up for success post-graduation.” Sams said he continues to stay in touch with
some of his professors, who are happy to continue to offer expertise and advice. “The professors are truly there to help you and help market yourself effectively to
have a job post-graduation. I still find myself emailing professors asking for advice,
and I still get a speedy and authentic response,” he said. Sams now works at Cornell
University as a New Media Specialist and is responsible for developing content and
maintaining the university’s brand on its social media accounts.
Related Media
-
MTSU True Blue Preview: Media Arts
-
Academic Spotlight | College of Media and Entertainment
MTSU's Bachelor of Science in Interactive Media offers opportunities to prepare you
for an exciting new world of possibilities. Every organization relies on interactive
media to connect with, do business with, and nurture relationships with clients and
customers. This ability to interact with audiences through media is a critical driver
of innovation, influence, information, entertainment, commerce, and education. This
field offers a wide spectrum of specializations to fit individual strengths.
What does a career in Interactive Media look like?
The Interactive Media degree program is designed to give you a wide variety of skills
and in conjunction with a complementing minor you’ll be prepared to start an exciting
career.
This is a sampling of job titles of our alumni:
- Agile Program Manager
- Brand Manager of Interactive Media
- Content Specialist
- Creative Producer
- Digital Marketing Specialist
- Digital Media Specialist
- Digital Strategist
- Director of E-commerce Marketing Strategies
- Full Stack Developer
- Marketing Coordinator
- Production Artist
- Senior Software Engineer
- Social Media Analyst
- Social Media Coordinator
- Software Developer
- User Experience Designer
- UI Specialist
- Video Producer
What can you earn as an Interactive Media professional?
The Interactive Media degree prepares you for an exciting professional life that can
support you and your goals. Our graduates are finding positions like digital marketing,
web analytics, online video, etc. Entry level jobs start between $26,000 and $35,000
per year. Technology companies (we have dozens in the Middle Tennessee area) and retail
companies have the most job opportunities. After a few years, the average salary is
about $50,334 a year or about $24 an hour. After four or more years of experience,
you can expect to make upwards of $96,000. As you get more experience you can get
more specialized and the salaries begin to increase.
Sources: Zippia.com, ZipRecruiter.com, Comparably.com
Where do our graduates work?
Interactive Media graduates work in all kinds of industries. That’s because communicating
with new technology affects every business or organization.
Undergraduate
Undergraduates in Interactive Media earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. The
Interactive Media degree requires a minor in a number of recommended areas including
Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Video and Film, Media Management, Information Systems,
Computer Science, Recording Industry, etc.
Minor
The Interactive Media program also offers a minor in Interactive Media. The minor requires the completion of 15 credit hours.
Graduate
The College of Media and Entertainment offers a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Media and Communication.
Interactive Media, B.S.
Media Arts
Todd O'Neill
(615) 898-5830
todd.oneill@mtsu.edu
The Interactive Media program focuses on interactive and new media content. This interdisciplinary program combines the use of text, images, video, sound, graphics, and interactivity to communicate through a variety of ever-changing digital platforms such as social media, apps, virtual and augmented reality, and games. The curriculum includes content creation, strategy, measurement, and management in a blend of theoretical and hands-on approaches. The curriculum culminates with a senior capstone course and an internship in a professional setting.
NOTE: Majors must complete all major course requirements with a grade of C (2.00) or better.
Admission to Candidacy
To be admitted to candidacy in the Interactive Media program, the student must meet the following requirements:
- 45 hours completed before applying for candidacy
- Passing grade for EMC 1010
- Grade of B (3.00) or better in each of the following:
EMC 1020/RIM 1020/JOUR 1020
IAM 2500
IAM 3060
IAM 3065
Math course satisfying General Education requirements
- Grade of C (2.00) or better in ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020.
Academic Map
Following is a printable, suggested four-year schedule of courses:
Interactive Media, B.S., Academic Map
Degree Requirements
| General Education | 41 hours |
| Major Requirements | 49 hours* |
| College Core | 9 hours |
| Interactive Media Requirements | 40 hours |
| MGMT/MKT/ENTR requirement | 3 hours |
| Minor | 15-18 hours |
| Electives | 9-15 hours |
| TOTAL | 120 hours |
*This program requires courses that can also fulfill requirements of the General Education curriculum. If program requirements are also used to fulfill General Education requirements, the number of elective hours will increase.
General Education (41 hours)
General Education requirements (shown in curricular listings below) include courses in Communication, History, Humanities and/or Fine Arts, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Social/Behavioral Sciences.
The following course required by the program meets General Education requirements:
Major Requirements (49 hours)
College Core (9 hours)
EMC 1020 - American Media and Social Institutions
3 credit hours
(Same as JOUR 1020/RIM 1020.)
The power of the mass media and its effect on social institutions and practices. Develops skills of qualitative and quantitative social science research in the area of mass communication processes; examines media as social, cultural, and economic institutions that shape the values of American society, its political dialogues, its social practices, and institutions.
RIM 1020 - American Media and Social Institutions
3 credit hours
(Same as EMC 1020/JOUR 1020.) The power of the mass media and its effect on social institutions and practices. Develops skills of qualitative and quantitative social science research in the area of mass communication processes; examines media as social, cultural, and economic institutions that shape the values of American society, its political dialogues, its social practices, and institutions.
JOUR 1020 - American Media and Social Institutions
3 credit hours
(Same as EMC 1020/RIM 1020.) The power of the mass media and its effect on social institutions and practices. Develops skills of qualitative and quantitative social science research in the area of mass communication processes; examines media as social, cultural, and economic institutions that shape the values of American society, its political dialogues, its social practices, and institutions.
(may be counted in General Education)
IAM 3060 - Writing for Interactive Experiences
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020 with C or better. Introduces fundamental principles of writing for interactive experience for specific audiences. Encourages students to explore content development; looks at creation of meaning in interactive media while providing skills in content development.
EMC 4250 - Mass Media Law
3 credit hours
(Same as JOUR 4250.) Prerequisites: EMC 1020; junior standing. Examines legal guarantees and restrictions on the flow of information using the case study method. Focuses on libel, privacy, obscenity, and the special restrictions placed on advertising, broadcasting, cable television, and the Internet.
JOUR 4250 - Mass Media Law
3 credit hours
(Same as EMC 4250.) Prerequisites: JOUR 1020 and JOUR 2710; junior standing. Examination of legal guarantees and restrictions on the flow of information using the case study method. Focus on libel, privacy, obscenity, and the special restrictions placed on advertising, broadcasting, cable TV, and the Internet.
Interactive Media Requirements (40 hours)
EMC 1010 - Orientation to Media Arts
1 credit hour
Introduces Media Arts majors to its degree programs, degree requirements, descriptions of curriculum, student resources and opportunities, career options, and critical goals for graduating seniors. Meetings may include lectures, guest lecturers, and site visits. Freshmen should enroll in this course no later than their second semester. Transfer students should enroll in this course during their first semester at MTSU. This course or a pre-approved substitute is required for candidacy in all majors in the Department of Media Arts.
EMC 3001 - Success in Media Arts
1 credit hour
Prerequisite: EMC 1010; junior status
Introduces students who have just achieved candidacy in Media Arts to best practices for success in Media Arts. Project management key topic. Emphasizes the value and importance of portfolio-quality work samples, experience points for resumes, and extracurricular experiences.
EMC 4000 - Media Internship
1 to 3 credit hours
(3 credit hours required)(3 credit hours required)
dotslash:(3 credit hours required)
title:(3 credit hours required)
(3 credit hours required)
EMC 4000 - Media Internship
1 to 3 credit hours
Prerequisites: Admission to candidacy; senior standing; permission of sequence internship coordinator or instructor.
Practical experience for advanced students in a professional setting. A minimum of 75 hours of work per credit hour plus other assignments is required. Note: Total university credit for internship and practicum courses cannot exceed 6 credits. Pass/Fail. Can be repeated with different employer for one to three credits with permission of instructor.
IAM 2500 - Survey of Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: EMC 1020/JOUR 1020. An overview of systems and methods of interactive and emerging media message delivery. Explores cultural, social, ethical, historical, and legal challenges of new and emerging media.
IAM 3065 - Audiences and Messaging
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: IAM 2500 and IAM 3060.
Analysis of communication objectives, audience needs, and appropriate media in solving communication problems. Involves theoretical and practical application of mass communication theories.
IAM 3070 - Introduction to Social Media Practice
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3060.
Introduces social media history, approaches, and practical application. Overview of social media usage within and on behalf of organizations and institutions through a practical analysis approach that focuses on the application of social media techniques.
IAM 3210 - Interactive Media Applications
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: VFP 1060 or VFP 2130 or permission of department.
The application of video for online, mobile, and other interactive media delivery channels. Explores transformations inherent in the digital domain and the associated social and cultural ramifications. Students will create productions that reflect these concepts. Laboratory required.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Fall only
IAM 3610 - Fundamentals of Game Theory and Design
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces game theory to students with diverse academic backgrounds. Focuses on the basics of game theory from strategic reasoning to sequential games and turn taking. Students required to design and build a basic mobile game.
IAM 4001 - Professional Practices in Interactive Media
2 credit hours
Prerequisites: Interactive Media candidacy; senior standing. Solidifies students' brand and deepens their understanding of the interactive media industry. Students create a personal brand in print and online, get involved in the professional community, and create articles that demonstrate the knowledge and the skills which represent their professional aspirations. Includes résumés, LinkedIn profiles, and portfolios.
IAM 4450 - Understanding Digital Analytics
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces the measurement and analysis of traffic, engagement, and other parameters of online, mobile, emergent communication, and entertainment technology. Students will work with real world clients to analyze current digital media traffic trends and create measurement strategies and tactics. Students may earn applicable certifications as available as part of their coursework.
IAM 4460 - Interactive Media Capstone
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: Candidacy in Interactive Media; senior status
Solving communication problems through digital communication applications. Students use skills and concepts and apply them in the creation of a capstone project of their own design. Involves working with outside clients, forming media companies, and the production of mediated materials within a production company model.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Spring only
VCOM 2950 - Visual Communication Applications
3 credit hours
Introduces industry-standard graphics applications used for print, Web, and digital publication; discusses typography, design, and color theory; overview of publication procedures. Combined lecture/lab.
VFP 1060 - Basic Video Production
3 credit hours
Focuses on the basics of creating videos by shooting good video, recording good audio, editing raw footage into a coherent story or presentation, and sharing finished videos. Exposes students to camera, lighting, composition, sound, graphics, perspective, movement, and other tools of the motion picture language. Students must provide their own video cameras (smartphones acceptable), computers for editing videos, video editing software (iMovie, Windows Movie maker, or better), and microphones that work with their chosen cameras.
Choose two:
IAM 3250 - Gender and Representation in Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 2500.
Examines the intersection of gender, technology, and interactive media. Students will critically analyze theories of materiality and embodiment in digital media, as well as explore how the interactivity of the web affects performativity of power relations and socially constructed identities.
IAM 3560 - Order, Disorder, and Change in Digital Societies
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces theories of adoption, emergence, and disruption of digital technologies in global cultures.
IAM 3850 - Online Strategy and Search Engine Optimization
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3065 or permission of department. An overview of online strategies such as search engine optimization and web analytics.
IAM 3950 - Content Strategy and Management
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3065; candidacy in Interactive Media.
Introduces the concepts of content strategy; the creation, delivery, and governance of useful, usable content; and provides practical experience in implementing a content strategy with database enabled content management systems.
IAM 4350 - User Experience Fundamentals
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Explores facets of the user experience discipline: interaction design, user research, usability, navigation, and information architecture. Students apply theory and skills from the class in real world projects developing apps or websites for small businesses or non-profits or as entrepreneurial ventures.
IAM 4800 - Seminar in Media Issues
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Interactive Media candidacy or permission of department. Examination and critical evaluation of issues relevant to interactive media including their relationships to each other and to government, advertisers, consumers, and other "publics."
IAM 4950 - Advanced Seminar-Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Candidacy in Interactive Media; junior status
Provides practical experience in the conceptualization, design, and production of new media oriented projects as well as integration of theory and skills from other EMC courses. Topics will vary by semester offering but may include content management systems; e-books; web and mobile applications; digital signs, etc. Can be repeated for 6 credit hours with different topics.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Management/Marketing/Entrepreneurship Requirement (3 hours)
Choose one:
ENTR 2900 - Entrepreneurship
3 credit hours
Theories and practices of starting and operating an entrepreneurial business. Topics include idea generation, opportunity recognition, feasibility analysis, business plan development, competitor analysis, new venture team building, start-up marketing, and growth strategies.
MGMT 3610 - Principles of Management
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing. Concepts of the management functions of planning, organizing, and controlling with an emphasis on behavioral science concepts as applied to managing people in organizations.
MKT 3820 - Principles of Marketing
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing. Survey of the functions, processes, and institutions involved in the distribution of consumer and industrial goods and services. Decision making in marketing management introduced.
Minor (15-18 hours)
Electives (9-15 hours)
Curriculum: Interactive Media
Curricular listings include General Education requirements in Communication, History, Humanities and/or Fine Arts, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Social/Behavioral Sciences categories.
Freshman
EMC 1010 - Orientation to Media Arts
1 credit hour
Introduces Media Arts majors to its degree programs, degree requirements, descriptions of curriculum, student resources and opportunities, career options, and critical goals for graduating seniors. Meetings may include lectures, guest lecturers, and site visits. Freshmen should enroll in this course no later than their second semester. Transfer students should enroll in this course during their first semester at MTSU. This course or a pre-approved substitute is required for candidacy in all majors in the Department of Media Arts.
COMM 2200 - Fundamentals of Communication
3 credit hours
Introduces principles and processes of effective public oral communication including researching, critical thinking, organizing, presenting, listening, and using appropriate language. Counts as part of the General Education Communication requirement. TBR Common Course: COMM 2025
ENGL 1010 - Expository Writing
3 credit hours
The first General Education English course. Emphasis on learning to adapt composing processes to a variety of expository and analytic writing assignments. Minimum grade of C- required to meet degree requirements.
ENGL 1020 - Research and Argumentative Writing
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: ENGL 1010. The second General Education English course. Emphasis on analytic and argumentative writing and on locating, organizing, and using library resource materials in the writing. Minimum grade of C- required to meet degree requirements.
IAM 2500 - Survey of Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: EMC 1020/JOUR 1020. An overview of systems and methods of interactive and emerging media message delivery. Explores cultural, social, ethical, historical, and legal challenges of new and emerging media.
- Mathematics 3 credit hours
- Humanities and/or Fine Arts 3 credit hours
- Social/Behavioral Sciences 3 credit hours
- Minor 3 credit hours
HIST 2010 - Survey of United States History I
3 credit hours
Survey of the political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects. Discusses the era from the beginning to 1877. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement. HIST 2010 is NOT a prerequisite for HIST 2020. TBR Common Course: HIST 2010
HIST 2020 - Survey of United States History II
3 credit hours
Survey of the political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects. Discusses the era from 1877 to the present. May be used to satisfy one part of the the General Education History requirement. HIST 2010 is NOT a prerequisite for HIST 2020. TBR Common Course: HIST 2020
HIST 2030 - Tennessee History
3 credit hours
The role of the state in the development of the nation. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement. TBR Common Course: HIST 2030
HIST 2040 - Survey African American History I
3 credit hours
The role of African Americans in establishing and shaping the American nation. Covers their historical development and contributions to American art, music, literature, and religion. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement.
NOTE: HIST 2040 is not a prerequisite for HIST 2050.
HIST 2050 - Survey African American History II
3 credit hours
The role of African Americans in shaping the American nation and creating a twentieth-century racial identity. Covers their historical development and examines their contributions to American art, music, literature, and religion. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement.
EMC 1020 - American Media and Social Institutions
3 credit hours
(Same as JOUR 1020/RIM 1020.)
The power of the mass media and its effect on social institutions and practices. Develops skills of qualitative and quantitative social science research in the area of mass communication processes; examines media as social, cultural, and economic institutions that shape the values of American society, its political dialogues, its social practices, and institutions.
JOUR 1020 - American Media and Social Institutions
3 credit hours
(Same as EMC 1020/RIM 1020.) The power of the mass media and its effect on social institutions and practices. Develops skills of qualitative and quantitative social science research in the area of mass communication processes; examines media as social, cultural, and economic institutions that shape the values of American society, its political dialogues, its social practices, and institutions.
RIM 1020 - American Media and Social Institutions
3 credit hours
(Same as EMC 1020/JOUR 1020.) The power of the mass media and its effect on social institutions and practices. Develops skills of qualitative and quantitative social science research in the area of mass communication processes; examines media as social, cultural, and economic institutions that shape the values of American society, its political dialogues, its social practices, and institutions.
(May count as Social/Behavioral Sciences requirement)
Subtotal: 31 credit hours
Sophomore
IAM 3060 - Writing for Interactive Experiences
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020 with C or better. Introduces fundamental principles of writing for interactive experience for specific audiences. Encourages students to explore content development; looks at creation of meaning in interactive media while providing skills in content development.
IAM 3065 - Audiences and Messaging
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: IAM 2500 and IAM 3060.
Analysis of communication objectives, audience needs, and appropriate media in solving communication problems. Involves theoretical and practical application of mass communication theories.
VFP 1060 - Basic Video Production
3 credit hours
Focuses on the basics of creating videos by shooting good video, recording good audio, editing raw footage into a coherent story or presentation, and sharing finished videos. Exposes students to camera, lighting, composition, sound, graphics, perspective, movement, and other tools of the motion picture language. Students must provide their own video cameras (smartphones acceptable), computers for editing videos, video editing software (iMovie, Windows Movie maker, or better), and microphones that work with their chosen cameras.
VCOM 2950 - Visual Communication Applications
3 credit hours
Introduces industry-standard graphics applications used for print, Web, and digital publication; discusses typography, design, and color theory; overview of publication procedures. Combined lecture/lab.
- Natural Sciences (2 rubrics) 8 credit hours
- Humanities and/or Fine Arts 3 credit hours
- Minor course 3 credit hours
- Minor course/elective 3 credit hours
ENGL 2020 - Themes in Literature and Culture
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020. Traces a specific theme or idea through a number of literary texts that reflect different historical and cultural contexts. Subject will vary.
ENGL 2030 - The Experience of Literature
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020. The reading of a variety of literary types which illuminate themes and experiences common to human existence.
HUM 2610 - World Literatures
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020. Representative works of French, German, and Hispanic authors in English translation. No foreign-language proficiency required. Carries General Education credit.
Subtotal: 32 credit hours
Junior
EMC 3001 - Success in Media Arts
1 credit hour
Prerequisite: EMC 1010; junior status
Introduces students who have just achieved candidacy in Media Arts to best practices for success in Media Arts. Project management key topic. Emphasizes the value and importance of portfolio-quality work samples, experience points for resumes, and extracurricular experiences.
IAM 3070 - Introduction to Social Media Practice
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3060.
Introduces social media history, approaches, and practical application. Overview of social media usage within and on behalf of organizations and institutions through a practical analysis approach that focuses on the application of social media techniques.
IAM 3210 - Interactive Media Applications
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: VFP 1060 or VFP 2130 or permission of department.
The application of video for online, mobile, and other interactive media delivery channels. Explores transformations inherent in the digital domain and the associated social and cultural ramifications. Students will create productions that reflect these concepts. Laboratory required.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Fall only
IAM 3610 - Fundamentals of Game Theory and Design
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces game theory to students with diverse academic backgrounds. Focuses on the basics of game theory from strategic reasoning to sequential games and turn taking. Students required to design and build a basic mobile game.
IAM 4450 - Understanding Digital Analytics
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces the measurement and analysis of traffic, engagement, and other parameters of online, mobile, emergent communication, and entertainment technology. Students will work with real world clients to analyze current digital media traffic trends and create measurement strategies and tactics. Students may earn applicable certifications as available as part of their coursework.
- Minor courses 6 credit hours
- Minor course/elective 3 credit hours
- IAM elective 3 credit hours
EMC 4250 - Mass Media Law
3 credit hours
(Same as JOUR 4250.) Prerequisites: EMC 1020; junior standing. Examines legal guarantees and restrictions on the flow of information using the case study method. Focuses on libel, privacy, obscenity, and the special restrictions placed on advertising, broadcasting, cable television, and the Internet.
JOUR 4250 - Mass Media Law
3 credit hours
(Same as EMC 4250.) Prerequisites: JOUR 1020 and JOUR 2710; junior standing. Examination of legal guarantees and restrictions on the flow of information using the case study method. Focus on libel, privacy, obscenity, and the special restrictions placed on advertising, broadcasting, cable TV, and the Internet.
HIST 2010 - Survey of United States History I
3 credit hours
Survey of the political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects. Discusses the era from the beginning to 1877. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement. HIST 2010 is NOT a prerequisite for HIST 2020. TBR Common Course: HIST 2010
HIST 2020 - Survey of United States History II
3 credit hours
Survey of the political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects. Discusses the era from 1877 to the present. May be used to satisfy one part of the the General Education History requirement. HIST 2010 is NOT a prerequisite for HIST 2020. TBR Common Course: HIST 2020
HIST 2030 - Tennessee History
3 credit hours
The role of the state in the development of the nation. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement. TBR Common Course: HIST 2030
HIST 2040 - Survey African American History I
3 credit hours
The role of African Americans in establishing and shaping the American nation. Covers their historical development and contributions to American art, music, literature, and religion. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement.
NOTE: HIST 2040 is not a prerequisite for HIST 2050.
HIST 2050 - Survey African American History II
3 credit hours
The role of African Americans in shaping the American nation and creating a twentieth-century racial identity. Covers their historical development and examines their contributions to American art, music, literature, and religion. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement.
Subtotal: 28 Hours
Senior
EMC 4000 - Media Internship
1 to 3 credit hours
(3 credit hours required)(3 credit hours required)
dotslash:(3 credit hours required)
title:(3 credit hours required)
(3 credit hours required)
EMC 4000 - Media Internship
1 to 3 credit hours
Prerequisites: Admission to candidacy; senior standing; permission of sequence internship coordinator or instructor.
Practical experience for advanced students in a professional setting. A minimum of 75 hours of work per credit hour plus other assignments is required. Note: Total university credit for internship and practicum courses cannot exceed 6 credits. Pass/Fail. Can be repeated with different employer for one to three credits with permission of instructor.
IAM 4001 - Professional Practices in Interactive Media
2 credit hours
Prerequisites: Interactive Media candidacy; senior standing. Solidifies students' brand and deepens their understanding of the interactive media industry. Students create a personal brand in print and online, get involved in the professional community, and create articles that demonstrate the knowledge and the skills which represent their professional aspirations. Includes résumés, LinkedIn profiles, and portfolios.
IAM 4460 - Interactive Media Capstone
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: Candidacy in Interactive Media; senior status
Solving communication problems through digital communication applications. Students use skills and concepts and apply them in the creation of a capstone project of their own design. Involves working with outside clients, forming media companies, and the production of mediated materials within a production company model.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Spring only
MGMT 3610 - Principles of Management
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing. Concepts of the management functions of planning, organizing, and controlling with an emphasis on behavioral science concepts as applied to managing people in organizations.
MKT 3820 - Principles of Marketing
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing. Survey of the functions, processes, and institutions involved in the distribution of consumer and industrial goods and services. Decision making in marketing management introduced.
ENTR 2900 - Entrepreneurship
3 credit hours
Theories and practices of starting and operating an entrepreneurial business. Topics include idea generation, opportunity recognition, feasibility analysis, business plan development, competitor analysis, new venture team building, start-up marketing, and growth strategies.
- Minor course 3 credit hours
- IAM elective 3 credit hours
- Upper-division elective 3 credit hours
- Electives 9 credit hours
Subtotal: 29 Hours
Our adjunct faculty bring outstanding professional experience to our programs. Many are industry leaders with decorated careers and honors. Importantly, they are innovative educators who offer hands-on learning to our students to prepare them to enter and thrive in a dynamic, and oftentimes emerging, industry and professional world. They inspire, instruct, and challenge our students toward academic and professional success.
IAM 2500 - Survey of Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: EMC 1020/JOUR 1020. An overview of systems and methods of interactive and emerging media message delivery. Explores cultural, social, ethical, historical, and legal challenges of new and emerging media.
IAM 3060 - Writing for Interactive Experiences
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020 with C or better. Introduces fundamental principles of writing for interactive experience for specific audiences. Encourages students to explore content development; looks at creation of meaning in interactive media while providing skills in content development.
IAM 3065 - Audiences and Messaging
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: IAM 2500 and IAM 3060.
Analysis of communication objectives, audience needs, and appropriate media in solving communication problems. Involves theoretical and practical application of mass communication theories.
IAM 3070 - Introduction to Social Media Practice
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3060.
Introduces social media history, approaches, and practical application. Overview of social media usage within and on behalf of organizations and institutions through a practical analysis approach that focuses on the application of social media techniques.
IAM 3210 - Interactive Media Applications
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: VFP 1060 or VFP 2130 or permission of department.
The application of video for online, mobile, and other interactive media delivery channels. Explores transformations inherent in the digital domain and the associated social and cultural ramifications. Students will create productions that reflect these concepts. Laboratory required.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Fall only
IAM 3250 - Gender and Representation in Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 2500.
Examines the intersection of gender, technology, and interactive media. Students will critically analyze theories of materiality and embodiment in digital media, as well as explore how the interactivity of the web affects performativity of power relations and socially constructed identities.
IAM 3560 - Order, Disorder, and Change in Digital Societies
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces theories of adoption, emergence, and disruption of digital technologies in global cultures.
IAM 3610 - Fundamentals of Game Theory and Design
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces game theory to students with diverse academic backgrounds. Focuses on the basics of game theory from strategic reasoning to sequential games and turn taking. Students required to design and build a basic mobile game.
IAM 3850 - Online Strategy and Search Engine Optimization
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3065 or permission of department. An overview of online strategies such as search engine optimization and web analytics.
IAM 3950 - Content Strategy and Management
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3065; candidacy in Interactive Media.
Introduces the concepts of content strategy; the creation, delivery, and governance of useful, usable content; and provides practical experience in implementing a content strategy with database enabled content management systems.
IAM 4001 - Professional Practices in Interactive Media
2 credit hours
Prerequisites: Interactive Media candidacy; senior standing. Solidifies students' brand and deepens their understanding of the interactive media industry. Students create a personal brand in print and online, get involved in the professional community, and create articles that demonstrate the knowledge and the skills which represent their professional aspirations. Includes résumés, LinkedIn profiles, and portfolios.
IAM 4350 - User Experience Fundamentals
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Explores facets of the user experience discipline: interaction design, user research, usability, navigation, and information architecture. Students apply theory and skills from the class in real world projects developing apps or websites for small businesses or non-profits or as entrepreneurial ventures.
IAM 4450 - Understanding Digital Analytics
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces the measurement and analysis of traffic, engagement, and other parameters of online, mobile, emergent communication, and entertainment technology. Students will work with real world clients to analyze current digital media traffic trends and create measurement strategies and tactics. Students may earn applicable certifications as available as part of their coursework.
IAM 4460 - Interactive Media Capstone
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: Candidacy in Interactive Media; senior status
Solving communication problems through digital communication applications. Students use skills and concepts and apply them in the creation of a capstone project of their own design. Involves working with outside clients, forming media companies, and the production of mediated materials within a production company model.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Spring only
IAM 4800 - Seminar in Media Issues
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Interactive Media candidacy or permission of department. Examination and critical evaluation of issues relevant to interactive media including their relationships to each other and to government, advertisers, consumers, and other "publics."
IAM 4950 - Advanced Seminar-Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Candidacy in Interactive Media; junior status
Provides practical experience in the conceptualization, design, and production of new media oriented projects as well as integration of theory and skills from other EMC courses. Topics will vary by semester offering but may include content management systems; e-books; web and mobile applications; digital signs, etc. Can be repeated for 6 credit hours with different topics.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
IAM 2500 - Survey of Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: EMC 1020/JOUR 1020. An overview of systems and methods of interactive and emerging media message delivery. Explores cultural, social, ethical, historical, and legal challenges of new and emerging media.
IAM 3060 - Writing for Interactive Experiences
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020 with C or better. Introduces fundamental principles of writing for interactive experience for specific audiences. Encourages students to explore content development; looks at creation of meaning in interactive media while providing skills in content development.
IAM 3065 - Audiences and Messaging
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: IAM 2500 and IAM 3060.
Analysis of communication objectives, audience needs, and appropriate media in solving communication problems. Involves theoretical and practical application of mass communication theories.
IAM 3070 - Introduction to Social Media Practice
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3060.
Introduces social media history, approaches, and practical application. Overview of social media usage within and on behalf of organizations and institutions through a practical analysis approach that focuses on the application of social media techniques.
IAM 3210 - Interactive Media Applications
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: VFP 1060 or VFP 2130 or permission of department.
The application of video for online, mobile, and other interactive media delivery channels. Explores transformations inherent in the digital domain and the associated social and cultural ramifications. Students will create productions that reflect these concepts. Laboratory required.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Fall only
IAM 3250 - Gender and Representation in Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 2500.
Examines the intersection of gender, technology, and interactive media. Students will critically analyze theories of materiality and embodiment in digital media, as well as explore how the interactivity of the web affects performativity of power relations and socially constructed identities.
IAM 3560 - Order, Disorder, and Change in Digital Societies
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces theories of adoption, emergence, and disruption of digital technologies in global cultures.
IAM 3610 - Fundamentals of Game Theory and Design
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces game theory to students with diverse academic backgrounds. Focuses on the basics of game theory from strategic reasoning to sequential games and turn taking. Students required to design and build a basic mobile game.
IAM 3850 - Online Strategy and Search Engine Optimization
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3065 or permission of department. An overview of online strategies such as search engine optimization and web analytics.
IAM 3950 - Content Strategy and Management
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: IAM 3065; candidacy in Interactive Media.
Introduces the concepts of content strategy; the creation, delivery, and governance of useful, usable content; and provides practical experience in implementing a content strategy with database enabled content management systems.
IAM 4001 - Professional Practices in Interactive Media
2 credit hours
Prerequisites: Interactive Media candidacy; senior standing. Solidifies students' brand and deepens their understanding of the interactive media industry. Students create a personal brand in print and online, get involved in the professional community, and create articles that demonstrate the knowledge and the skills which represent their professional aspirations. Includes résumés, LinkedIn profiles, and portfolios.
IAM 4350 - User Experience Fundamentals
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Explores facets of the user experience discipline: interaction design, user research, usability, navigation, and information architecture. Students apply theory and skills from the class in real world projects developing apps or websites for small businesses or non-profits or as entrepreneurial ventures.
IAM 4450 - Understanding Digital Analytics
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of department.
Introduces the measurement and analysis of traffic, engagement, and other parameters of online, mobile, emergent communication, and entertainment technology. Students will work with real world clients to analyze current digital media traffic trends and create measurement strategies and tactics. Students may earn applicable certifications as available as part of their coursework.
IAM 4460 - Interactive Media Capstone
3 credit hours
Prerequisites: Candidacy in Interactive Media; senior status
Solving communication problems through digital communication applications. Students use skills and concepts and apply them in the creation of a capstone project of their own design. Involves working with outside clients, forming media companies, and the production of mediated materials within a production company model.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Spring only
IAM 4800 - Seminar in Media Issues
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Interactive Media candidacy or permission of department. Examination and critical evaluation of issues relevant to interactive media including their relationships to each other and to government, advertisers, consumers, and other "publics."
IAM 4950 - Advanced Seminar-Interactive Media
3 credit hours
Prerequisite: Candidacy in Interactive Media; junior status
Provides practical experience in the conceptualization, design, and production of new media oriented projects as well as integration of theory and skills from other EMC courses. Topics will vary by semester offering but may include content management systems; e-books; web and mobile applications; digital signs, etc. Can be repeated for 6 credit hours with different topics.
Three-hour lecture plus up to three-hour lab per week.
Interactive Media is about communicating with the latest technology. That means having
the best computer you can afford and the software to go with it. A general rule of
thumb is to purchase a computer with the largest screen, fastest processor (CPU),
the most memory (Gb), and the largest hard drive (Tb) that you can afford. A large screen is also good but can add significant weight to
the laptop. You should expect your laptop to last for at least the four years you
attend college so getting the biggest and fastest “future proofs” your purchase. These
are the specifications we recommend:
- Minimum 13” display
- Processor (CPU) - Apple: MacOS M1 and M2; Windows: Intel Core i3 or i5 or the AMD
Ryzen 3 or Ryzen 5
- Minimum of 8 Gb (gigabytes) of memory (RAM)
- 1 Tb (terabyte) solid state drive (SSD)
- Suggest a 1 Tb external SSD for project work and computer backups
We recommend either the Apple MacBook Pro or the equivalent Windows computer like
the Dell XPS. Small computers like the Microsoft Surface or Google Chromebook do not
meet these requirements. Will a Windows gaming computer work? Yes, but it will be
heavy to lug around campus.
You can get a discount on Apple computers at the Apple Education Store. Apple also has good deals on factory refurbished laptops. WIndows computers can be purchased at the MTSU Dell store. Dell has an outlet store.
Our lab classrooms have computers with the latest software installed but most students
carry their laptop with them to work wherever they happen to be.
What about software? Interactive Media has very little required software and what
we do use is supplied by MTSU. You are able to download a suite of Adobe Creative
Cloud software to your laptop. And you are able to download Microsoft Office 365 to your laptop as well. There are also some specialty online software that we have
negotiated free use for class or it is available online for free.
Online or Hybrid Programs at a Glance
This program is available .
For More Information or Explore Your Options
Contact your department / program coordinator or advisor for more details about the program. OR Work one-on-one with your advisor to explore your options.
The Online Advantage
With over 25 years of experience in online teaching and learning, MTSU Online offers students access to innovative, high-quality programs. Designed with students in mind, our courses allow maximum flexibility for those unable to participate in person.
Resources and services for online students are available from MTSU Online or contact us at distance@mtsu.edu.
