COURSE CURRICULUM

The New Media Interactive Development BS curriculum at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) for 2025–2026 is a 120-credit, four-year program that combines computer science, interactive media, and user experience development to prepare students for careers in software development, web applications, games, and emerging digital technologies. In the first year, students build foundational skills in programming, interactive media, and mathematics through courses such as Algorithmic Problem Solving, Introduction to Interactive Media, discrete mathematics, and introductory web and design survey courses. They also complete general education requirements in writing and arts, which help strengthen communication and creative thinking skills.In the second year, students advance into more technical and applied coursework, including higher-level algorithmic problem solving, web development or web technology for games, and experience design for games and media. Students also study mathematics, ethics, global studies, scientific principles, and social perspectives, while beginning co-op preparation. This stage focuses on bridging programming skills with user experience and interactive system design.During the summer after the second year, students complete their first cooperative education (co-op), gaining full-time paid industry experience in interactive media or software-related roles. This real-world experience is a key part of the program and helps students apply classroom knowledge in professional environments.In the third year, students explore advanced topics such as rich media web application development, physical computing, alternative interfaces, and database design. They also continue general education immersion requirements and select open electives to broaden their academic and technical expertise. A second co-op experience is completed after this year, further strengthening professional development.In the fourth year, students focus on specialization and capstone work. They complete a two-semester capstone sequence in interactive development, where they design and build a major project that demonstrates their technical and creative skills. Students also take advanced electives and additional general education courses, allowing them to tailor their studies to specific career goals.Overall, this program integrates programming, interactive design, web development, and emerging media technologies, preparing graduates for careers in software engineering, web and app development, game development, UX engineering, and other roles in the digital technology industry.