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Graphic Information Technology, MS

Graphic Information Technology, MS

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Graphic Information Technology, MS

Cross Media, Management, Photography, UX, Web, animation, approved for STEM-OPT extension, design, graphics, usability, video

Become a versatile professional who understands both design and development --- precisely what is needed in today's digital and creative industries. You'll build specialized visual communication skills to address complex challenges at the intersection of design, technology and business.

Program description
Degree awarded: MS  Graphic Information Technology

The Master of Science program in graphic information technology is a course-based master's program that provides you with the opportunity to study various areas of graphics and cross-media design. Through the courses offered, you gain a working knowledge of the technology and management required in the diverse graphic industries. Possible course tracks include cross-media design, user experience and user interface, front-end web design and development, and the business of design.

You are prepared to become an industry leader who develops and manages content across numerous communication and distribution modes. You are empowered to think critically, creatively and collaboratively in an environment that promotes project-based learning. You practice building client- and audience-centered design solutions, address client and user needs, and focus on industry outcomes.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
  • STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes

Accelerated program options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. Accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving students who want the opportunity to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.

This program is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:


Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Degree requirements

30 credit hours - course-based master's

Required Core (6 credit hours)
GIT 537 Current Issues in Cross Media Production (3)
GIT 540 Cross-Media Design Solutions (3)

Electives (21 credit hours)

Other Requirement (3 credit hours)
GIT 500 Research Methods (3)

Additional Curriculum Information
Students should see their program advisor for a complete list of approved elective coursework. This course-based, professional graduate degree is structured to allow students an additional elective in place of a culminating experience, providing more hands-on, project-based learning aligned with professional outcomes.

Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
U.S. applicants | International applicants | English proficiency

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

To be considered for admission to the program, applicants must have earned a bachelor's degree or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution in a related field such as graphic design, web design and development, photography, videography, motion graphics and visual effects, or user experience design.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in their first bachelor's degree program or in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program; or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in nine semester hours of graduate coursework from a U.S. institution; or a cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable conferred master's degree program from a regionally accredited college or university.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. personal statement
  4. professional resume
  5. writing sample
  6. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Global Launch at ASU offers an online alternative to standardized testing for international students who are seeking admission to ASU and need proof of English proficiency.

Unofficial transcripts may be submitted at the time of application. If admitted, applicants must then submit official transcripts to ASU Admission Services.

If the applicant does not meet the minimum GPA requirements, the application may still be considered. In certain cases, demonstrated aptitude through professional experience or additional postbaccalaureate education is considered.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Attend online
ASU Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.

Application deadlines
Session Modality Deadline Type
Session A/C In Person Rolling
Session A/C Online Rolling
Session Modality Deadline Type
Session A/C In Person Rolling
Session A/C Online Rolling
Session Modality Deadline Type
Session A/C Online Rolling
Program learning outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program’s learning outcomes include the following:

  • Analyze current cross-media research to determine appropriate standards for application to proposed solutions.
  • Build client- and audience-centered design solutions through the synthesis of best practices and research data.
  • Conduct industry-relevant research and communicate results effectively to diverse audiences.
Career opportunities

Creative and comfortable with complex digital technology, graduates are innovative problem-solvers. They are prepared for leading roles and management positions in the rapidly evolving and diverse graphic technology industries. Career opportunities include these positions:

  • art director
  • creative director
  • cross-media designer
  • digital asset manager
  • digital media artist
  • front-end designer or developer
  • motion graphics artist
  • pre-media, digital printing and publishing designer
  • social media content creator
  • user experience designer
  • UX or UI engineer
Contact information

Program term definitions

Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.

Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.

ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.

The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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