Bachelor of Arts and Science in New Media

City University of Hong Kong

Media creators are increasingly using scientific concepts in their work. Games, for instance, use ideas from physics, biology and mathematics. Multimedia artists are also learning to collaborate with scientists when producing their work. This ground-breaking new major is a response to this cutting-edge trend in the creative world.

This major emphasises lateral thinking and understanding across professions to prepare graduates for an increasingly interdependent and integrated world. Students use technology as an artistic medium, generating learning in a progressive and interdisciplinary context that bridges art, science, technology and the humanities. The curriculum encourages creative and critical thinking in the domain of digital content, together with the successful expression of a socially engaged personal vision through various digital media formats. Graduates receive professional training in state-of-the-art facilities to prepare them for future careers in the use of art, science and technology in the creative industries, innovative education and cultural management.

This major is especially designed for students who are not afraid to break down the barriers between the arts and the sciences.

After completing the School requirements, students study the major core courses to acquire basic knowledge of the history and theory of media art and achieve basic competence in a range of creative media including photography, sound, video, programming, electronics and installation.

Students also take basic courses in scientific thinking that have been especially designed to help creative professionals appreciate the scientific process. These courses cover basic physics, biology, chemistry and mathematical concepts and methods with an emphasis on scientific research/visualisation methods and the integration of art, science and culture.

Students are free to choose from a comprehensive list of elective courses from various areas such as animation, game, cinema and new media.

All students complete a Graduation Thesis, which can be a creative art project. Optional internship programmes are also in place for students who want to gain professional experience before they graduate. Throughout their studies, students have regular exposure to world-class artists and creative media professionals who visit SCM as guests or artists-in-residence.

Students can also take free electives or minor(s) according to their personal or career interests to fulfil the credit requirement for graduation. A strong Student Advising Scheme is in place to provide essential guidance and mentoring to students as part of their study plan.

Graduates will be prepared to become creative artists and content providers for the games industry, animation, TV and digital media broadcasting, cinema, photography, web design, software development and the contemporary arts. They may also choose to join the quickly advancing interactive media industry connected to advertising, exhibition and trade shows, or the emerging field of computer imaging for the health and science professions. Graduates will be equipped to become key players in those areas that call for a close dialogue between art, science and culture.