The telecommunications department is acquiring a new master's program in digital storytelling.
Dominic Caristi, an associate professor of telecommunications, has been named the graduate director of the program, which will start in the fall. This two-year, 48-hour curriculum is designed to help students become well rounded in different entertainment mediums thanks in part to a Lilly Endowment.
"More than a decade ago, we stopped offering graduate courses because the (telecommunications) department felt that we were stretched too thin and that we didn't have the resources," Caristi said. "So we focused on undergraduate education."
Caristi said he didn't know how much came from Lilly, but it was enough to provide the right resources to rethink what the department wanted in a master's program. But they also had to design a program that met Lilly's standards.
Digital storytelling integrates every type of story-telling medium possible. The program can link new and old technologies using digital videos, interactive books, traditional storyboards and more.
This new masters program is comprised of current courses, modified courses and new courses. The two-year degree entails 48 hours comprising 21 hours in core classes, nine hours in research, six hours of design, and 12 hours of production and application.
Also, students will spend the summer studying abroad, ideally between the first and second years of studies, Caristi said.
Students do not necessarily need to leave the country, Caristi said. Instead, students need to immerse themselves in another culture. They will document a cultural storytelling tradition within different cultures.
"Whether you're doing news or a million-dollar movie or an interactive Xbox game, it's really all about stories," Caristi said.
He said he's hoping this program will attract not just telecommunications majors, but any artistic student.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
