Learn how to translate data and information into graphics, images, and interactive designs that communicate more effectively to more people. Develop design expertise and analytical abilities for a combination of skills in increasing demand.
Program Overview
In the Masters of Professional Studies in Information Visualization (M.P.S. InViz) you will learn to create powerful, data-driven visual narratives. Students learn storytelling concepts and approaches to develop unique analytical applications, and explore user interface design strategies to visually reach their audiences. By graduation, students have strong creative and analytical methodologies to visualize data and information, and a diverse portfolio of work to launch their career in visualization.
The M.P.S. is a cohort-based program focused on an applied field of study where all coursework is directly related to the topic area. Completed in just 15 months, it allows students to study full time while maintaining their current work-life balance.
Residencies
Three unique residencies enable students to work together on MICA's campus, allowing them to build a network of colleagues while learning the most current ideas and best practices. Residencies are designed to discuss emerging ideas in visualization, learn project management practices and strategies, and develop skills in applications and programming. All MPS program residencies take place on campus simultaneously, making for rich experiences, dynamic exchanges between faculty and students, cross-cohort and inter-disciplinary collaborations, and a community of business-minded creatives. These activities feed MICA's growing channels of career development and internship opportunities.
Program Resources
The MICA e-Learning environment is a flexible and adaptive platform that integrates Google tools including Gmail, Drive, and Google+ so students can conveniently access content. Each faculty member holds a weekly live class delivered through Adobe Connect web-conferencing software, whereby students can discuss topics with faculty and classmates. Lectures are recorded so students can revisit them at any time. Students also have access to MICA's web-based resources such as Adobe Creative Suite, Lynda.com, MyMICA, Decker Library and Media Resources Center, and Business Source Premier, the industry's most used business research database.
Who Should Apply
This program appeals to professionals from a wide variety of fields, including communications, analysis, and design, who want to reach their audiences using creative and engaging visual solutions. Students should have a strong interest in design and analysis, be able to adapt to new technology platforms, and a willingness to commit to an intensive learning experience.