UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in Digital Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Two-year option with thesis project and specializationSpecialized MA Option
- Six core courses in Digital StudiesCore Curriculum
- Elective courses in humanities and social sciencesFlexible Electives
- Four specialization areas: AI & Language, Digital Art & Archaeology, Digital Media & Extended Reality, Digital Texts & CultureAreas of Specialization
- Thesis project with software and written componentsThesis Requirement
- Optional paid research assistantshipResearch Opportunities
The Master of Arts in Digital Studies at the University of Chicago offers a one-year general M.A. or a two-year specialized M.A. with a thesis project. This program provides a strong foundation in computational methods, equipping students with coding skills alongside the research, writing, and critical thinking abilities developed through a humanities education. It is designed for students with backgrounds in humanities or arts, but those from scientific fields, including computer science, are also encouraged to apply. Graduates are prepared for careers in software development, marketing, communications, technical writing, or for further doctoral studies and academic support roles in digital humanities.
Curriculum
The program offers two tracks: a one-year general M.A. and a two-year specialized M.A. with a thesis. Both tracks require core courses in Digital Studies, with the two-year track including specialized courses and a thesis project.
- Year 1 (One-Year MA or First Year of Two-Year MA)
- Introduction to Computer Programming Using PythonDIGS 30001
- Data Management for the HumanitiesDIGS 30003
- History and Theory of Computing for the HumanitiesDIGS 30007
- Introduction to Statistics Using PythonDIGS 30002
- Data Publication for the HumanitiesDIGS 30005
- Data Visualization for the HumanitiesDIGS 30004
- Year 2 (Two-Year MA)
- Specialization Courses
- Thesis Project
Careers
Graduates are well-prepared for a range of careers, blending technical skills with critical humanities training. The program serves as a bridge to both non-academic and academic career paths.
- Software Development
- Software-related Marketing
- Communications
- Technical Writing
- Doctoral Studies
- Academic Support in Digital Humanities
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Master of Arts in Digital Studies program?
- The program offers two options: a one-year general M.A. and a two-year specialized M.A. that includes a thesis project.
- What are the entry requirements for the program?
- Applicants need an undergraduate degree and must have completed at least one college-level mathematics or statistics course with a grade of B (3.0) or higher. No prior programming background is required.
- Are there different tracks available within the program?
- Yes, you can choose between a one-year general M.A. or a two-year specialized M.A. which includes specialization courses and a thesis project.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Specific tuition amounts are not provided on the program pages; refer to the university's central resources for detailed information. However, international students in the two-year M.A. program receive a 50 percent tuition reduction in the second year.
- What career paths can graduates pursue?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in software development, software-related marketing, communications, technical writing, or can pursue doctoral studies and academic support in digital humanities.
- Does the program require a thesis?
- A thesis project is a requirement for the two-year specialized M.A. track, involving both software and written components.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeNot specified, but students typically come from humanities or arts backgrounds. Science and computer science majors are also encouraged.
Mathematics or Statistics CourseAt least one college-level course with a grade of B (3.0) or higher.
No previous background in computer programming is required. Admission to the two-year M.A. considers prior training and aptitude for the chosen specialization. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 is required to remain in good standing throughout the program.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fee is reduced by 50 percent in the second year for the two-year M.A. program.
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Specific tuition and living cost amounts are not provided on the program pages. Refer to the university's central fees and financial aid resources for detailed information.
How to apply
1. Choose Your Program TrackDecide between the one-year general M.A. (no thesis) or the two-year specialized M.A. (with thesis and specialization).
2. Select a Specialization (for two-year MA)If applying for the two-year M.A., indicate your preferred area of specialization: Artificial Intelligence and Language, Digital Art and Archaeology, Digital Media and Extended Reality, or Digital Texts and Culture.
3. Review Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic requirements, including having completed at least one college-level mathematics or statistics course with a grade of B (3.0) or higher. No prior programming background is required.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the graduate admission application, including all required documents.
5. Maintain Academic StandingOnce admitted, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 to remain in good standing. For the two-year M.A., a GPA below 3.5 at the end of the first year's Winter Quarter may result in eligibility only for the one-year M.A.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Master of Arts in Digital Studies program?
+
The program offers two options: a one-year general M.A. and a two-year specialized M.A. that includes a thesis project.
What are the entry requirements for the program?
+
Applicants need an undergraduate degree and must have completed at least one college-level mathematics or statistics course with a grade of B (3.0) or higher. No prior programming background is required.
Are there different tracks available within the program?
+
Yes, you can choose between a one-year general M.A. or a two-year specialized M.A. which includes specialization courses and a thesis project.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Specific tuition amounts are not provided on the program pages; refer to the university's central resources for detailed information. However, international students in the two-year M.A. program receive a 50 percent tuition reduction in the second year.
What career paths can graduates pursue?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in software development, software-related marketing, communications, technical writing, or can pursue doctoral studies and academic support in digital humanities.
Does the program require a thesis?
+
A thesis project is a requirement for the two-year specialized M.A. track, involving both software and written components.