CCIM students benefit from Ball State's Global Media Network, an interactive satellite/Web system that allows students and faculty from different parts of the world to interact with each other in real-time. For instance, a Ball State foreign film class has linked with a South Korean class to discuss the film techniques of each country. The experience added a depth to the class that would not have been possible otherwise. The Global Media Network was responsible for Ball State being chosen among only six universities to receive the American Council on Education’s ACE/AT&T Foundation Award for Technology as a Tool for Internationalization. The award recognizes the innovative use of technology to promote international learning at U.S. colleges and universities.

• The Applied Research Institute operates voice, data, networking, video, and application labs and provides research, testing, consulting, and training for corporate partners. The institute has maintained an excellent track record resulting in long-term relationships with AT&T, Cisco, Intel, Nortel, SBC, Sun Microsystems, Verizon, and dozens of other profit and nonprofit organizations.
• The Institute for Wireless Innovation assists CICS's corporate partners in evaluating and testing wireless products and applications. Working in this institute gives students an edge in providing leadership in this field upon graduation.
• The Human Factors Institute works with companies in designing system interfaces that are easy for people to use. Among its pioneering projects is a study of how using e-books compares with using printed textbooks.
• The Internetworking Academy trains students, educators, and professionals to work in a multivendor environment. This involves the setup, management, and troubleshooting of multiple vendor networks. The academy is supported by firms such as Cisco, Nortel, Sun Microsystems, AdTran, and Fluke Panduit.
• The Software Testing Institute develops and conducts customized testing methodologies for companies for Web sites and software packages. Students benefit by working with cutting-edge technologies, as well as business and academic specialists.