Ball State University offers a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science in media design and development through the School of Journalism and Strategic Communication in the College of Communication, Information, and Media.
Why choose a media design and development degree?
- Design and storytelling: Study visual communication, user experience, information design, photographic storytelling, data visualization, and cross-platform design.
- Applied projects: Participate in class projects, immersive learning, student media, or agency experiences.
- Professional experience: Complete internship credits through the School’s professional-experience requirement.
- Flexible electives or double major: Explore topics such as social media, video, audio, and digital branding.
- Graduate pathway: Qualified students may begin the master of arts in emerging media design and development through an Accelerated Master’s Program.
What you’ll study as a media design and development major
Depending on the courses and electives available students could study:
- design tools and methods
- media design
- user experience and usability
- photographic storytelling
- information and cross-platform design
- data analysis and visualization
- media and audiences
- career preparation
For a full list and specific coursework visit the course catalog or for more information contact the department academic advisor.
View Media Design and Development Courses
What career options are available for media design and development graduates?
Depending on the coursework, portfolio, experience, location, and technical preparation, graduates may pursue roles such as:
- junior user experience designer
- user interface design assistant
- digital content designer
- information design assistant
- web content specialist
- multimedia designer
- media analytics assistant
- motion graphics designer
- data visualization assistant
- social media content specialist
- digital marketing specialist
- usability research assistant
Creative director, art director, senior user experience designer, front-end developer, product designer, and analytics manager positions generally require specialized technical preparation, professional experience, or both. This list is not comprehensive, if you don't see your preferred profession in this list speak with a faculty member or an academic advisor about career opportunities.
Graduate Study
We offer a master of arts in emerging media design and development. The graduate program addresses human-computer interaction, design thinking, cross-platform storytelling, research, and interactive media development.
Qualified undergraduates may apply to the Accelerated Master’s Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Take the Next Step
If you’d like to learn more about our Media Design and Development major, complete our online form. Or one of the best ways to get a true feel for Ball State is to see it for yourself, so schedule a visit today! And if you’re ready to apply, review our admission requirements and complete our online application.