Understanding research and academic writing are foundational skills for all graduate students regardless of degree culmination. This is a graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis, with the goal of all students becoming better consumers of research, and preparing those who choose an empirical research degree culmination and future doctoral pursuits. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. Research strategies using library sources, including academic databases and citation management, are emphasized; as are academic writing skills, including adherence to academic style. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments.

The Independent Study in media arts and technology provides students with the means for obtaining academic credit for work and/or research on topics related to the media arts and technology curriculum but not covered in the desired breadth or depth. The student works with an instructor to establish the objectives, content, and evaluation protocol for the study.

This course provides students that are new to the PPRT program an opportunity to develop an understanding of the school’s research activities. The students will become more knowledgeable about the Print Media program, career options, and exit strategies including thesis, capstone and culminating experience. Relevant topics including finding an advisor, required documentation, and policies regarding program completion and Co-op, as well as school policies and procedures relating to the successful completion of the PPRT program.

The co-op will provide students with the opportunity to work in the graphic communication field. Co-ops are typically paid work experiences and can be either part-time (10-15 hrs/wk) or full-time (min 35 hrs/wk). All co-ops must fall within an RIT term (fall, spring, summer). Department permission required.

This course will guide and monitor the progress of graduate students in the development of their written thesis proposal as defined in the SMS Thesis Manual. Students will review their work regularly throughout the semester, with the Graduate Director, SMS faculty, and their thesis committee. Students will be guided in the refinement of their thesis topic and structuring their methodology. Students will determine their thesis committee and create their thesis timeline, outline, and proposal culminating in a formal thesis proposal defense.

To conduct research on a topic relevant to the graphic arts industry. Topic must be approved by a committee comprising graduate faculty and an advisor.

The capstone course provides students the opportunity to combine and incorporate learnings gained in coursework and other experiences and apply this knowledge in a written capstone project relevant to the graphic communication and allied industries. Topic must be approved course instructor.

The student will work with a faculty adviser to create a series of readings, writings, or original research that addresses a key concern in the field of graphic communications.**NOTE: Student must have a minimum 3.0 GPA **

This course allows the student to continue thesis research on a topic relevant to the graphic arts industry. Topic must be approved by a committee compromising graduate faculty and an adviser.