FAQs
What do you mean by emerging media?
The term 鈥渆merging media鈥� reflects the accelerating pace of technological innovation in communication and communication platforms. There is always something new and this program, to a large extent, focuses on what is new. Of course, people adopt new communication technologies at different rates and sometimes stop using older technologies altogether. So the program explores new communication platforms, how and why people are using them and why people stop using older technology.
What kinds of practical skills will I learn through my participation in the program?
Students will learn how to assess the viability of new media as they emerge, identify meaningful trends, and develop and execute communication strategies to capitalize on new opportunities in a wide range of settings. Specifically students learn: Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Google AdWords, campaign management software, analytics and campaign metrics, content development and aggregation, among other skills.
What kind of background do I need to apply?
The program is open to all college graduates. You do not have to have majored in communication or a related discipline as an undergraduate, nor do you need professional or technical experience in a communication discipline.
What kinds of jobs am I likely to be qualified for as a result of taking the program?
Most organizations need to incorporate emerging media into their communication efforts sooner rather than later. This program is geared to people who want to manage or support communication programs in both corporate and nonprofit settings as well as people who work in traditional communication industries such as public relations, advertising, and journalism.
How many credits do I have to take?
The Master of Arts in Emerging Media program consists of 33 credits: nine three-credit courses and a six-credit capstone project. The Health Communication Certificate consists of 15 credits: five three-credit courses.
How long do I have to complete the program?
A full-time student can complete the degree requirements in 1 year. The maximum time allotted to complete the program is 5 years from entering the program.
Since the classes are online, who will be my instructors?
All classes will be taught by university faculty, who have extensive expertise and research interests in emerging media. You will have an opportunity to interact directly with each professor in each class.
How big will the classes be?
Typically, class size is limited to 20 students.
Do I have to be on campus during the summer?
No, the program is 100% online.
How much technology do I need to own in order to participate in the program?
You will need an up-to-date computer running Windows or a Mac. You will also need access to a high-speed broadband Internet connection. Your computer must be audio-enabled (with a microphone) and we recommend, though it is not required, that you purchase a WebCam if one is not integrated into your computer already. The classroom technology will be provided through Loyola's learning management software called Moodle; all new students are placed into a 0-credit online orientation course before their first semester in the program to help them learn the tools and prepare for their first semester.
Will I need to purchase specialized computer software?
No. We use a course management program called Moodle, and your courses will be run in Moodle over the web. You will need no additional software other than standard word processing, and perhaps presentation software. Current 樱花动漫 students have access to the full Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office 365 and Qualtrics survey software.
What kind of tech support can I expect?
Online students receive the same tech support as residential students. Live tech support will be available weekdays from 7 a.m. Eastern time to 10 p.m. Eastern time (7 p.m. Pacific time).
What do you mean by 鈥渞olling admissions鈥�?
We evaluate applications as they arrive and notify people of admission on an ongoing basis, based on published application deadlines. We accept students to start the program in all three semesters鈥攆all, spring, and summer. When a class fills, admission for a qualified applicant is deferred to the next semester. A limited number of scholarships and grants are available; early application is required for consideration.
What does the program cost?
What kind of funding is available?
Merit-based scholarships and Ignatius grants are available, along with graduate assistantships. Please refer to the financial aid website for more information. You may also contact Director of Graduate Admission and Financial Aid, Danielle Ballantyne (dballantyne@loyola.edu) with specific questions.
If I have specific or personal questions to which I want answers, who should I contact?
You may contact the Academic Director, Dr. Greg Hoplamazian (gjhoplamazian@loyola.edu); the Director Program Operations, Zoe Newman (zyderrickson@loyola.edu); the Communication Department Chair, Dr. Masudul Biswas (mkbiswas@loyola.edu); or Graduate Admissions Counselor, Maggie Mellott (mtmellott@loyola.edu).
What if I have a complaint?
Learn more about the online learning complaint process.
A student who has reason to question the accuracy of a grade should refer to the Graduate Catalogue for information about the process for appealing a grade.
樱花动漫 has established a grievance policy for all members of the 樱花动漫 community to resolve any issues involving alleged discriminatory treatment on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, marital status, handicap, or sex (including sexual harassment).