The tutorial program in the School of Media Arts and Studies offers an individualized course of study for exceptional students interested in media industries. This program provides students with a broad liberal arts background, a concentration in theory and research, and practical training in digital media and integrated production, games and animation, music production, and media and social change. Maximum opportunity will be afforded for the student to work at his or her own pace and to create a depth of education in media. The tutorial program prepares a student for a professional career or graduate study. Upon completion of the program, students receive a degree of Bachelor of Science in Communication from the Honors Tutorial College.
Tutorials
Students are required to complete eight tutorials within the School of Media Arts and Studies, including two devoted to the thesis. Tutorials may range from sophisticated research and analysis of existing media to production of original media products. In addition to the tutorials, the student must complete one Written Communication course (ENG 1510) and one Advanced Writing course (FAW), all core courses not covered by tutorials, and an appropriate number of approved electives. Internships and/or study abroad may be included within the program with permission from the Director of Studies. Honors Tutorial students take a minimum of 15 hours per semester.
The Honors Thesis
The honors thesis is a reflection of the student's special interests. Its acceptance, dependent upon an appropriate mixture of research and analysis, relies upon the judgment of his or her thesis advisor and the Director of Studies. It is expected that this major paper will constitute work of the highest quality and may be project-based.
Evaluation
Students throughout the program earn letter grades consistent with the University grading system and are expected to maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Students who earn less than a B (3.0), or who maintain less than a 3.5 GPA will need to confer with the Director of Studies and/or Dean of the College. In addition to letter grade assessments, tutors complete semester based course descriptions and evaluations of each student's work. In these assessments both the student's academic standing and academic attitude are evaluated.
