Information architecture unites the world of media and design disciplines

If you want a career where you can lead, rather than follow, take a look at the interactive multimedia post-diploma program. Multimedia is the combination of text, graphics, sound and animation to create applications for personal, informational, entertainment, or educational use. Students in the program create and design Web sites incorporating database and e-commerce, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, video, audio, screen-savers, and games.

Algonquin College's post-diploma program in Interactive Multimedia teaches the integration of traditional multimedia with Adobe Flash, something not available elsewhere. Most of the courses and subjects are taught in conjunction with Adobe Flash. Graduates are innovators who can create interactive worlds and ideas. Interactive multimedia encompasses two- and three-dimensional design in electronic communication and packaging. Good information design is information architecture

This graduate certificate program is :

- recognized by the Federal Government as a credential for employment
- 90+% employment rate for graduates
- strong hands-on component with many commercial, non-profit and governmental projects

In order to be eligible for the program, a student needs to have education or experience in (usually) graphic design, education, computer sciences or architecture (industrial or interior design included).

Employers have made it very clear they want people who are trained in multimedia and not self-taught. "We have no shortage of jobs for graduates in the program", says Tanya Hawley, coordinator of the program. "Interactive Multimedia was created in direct response to a wide-spread industry need for well-trained professionals representing the multifaceted talents of what our program strives to provide. These students go into the workforce with a diversified skill set encompassing stringent standards common to post-graduate programs."

Applicants are creative and "design-oriented" although they may not have the traditional "designer's" background. Students also have the chance to use employment background to qualify for entrance. Prior experience or education in print and broadcast journalism, advertising, public relations, photography, Web development, and computer sciences are also common backgrounds.

"The program is mandated by the Ministry of Education of Ontario," says Hawley. "As leaders in college-level education, we are committed to ensuring our graduates are prepared to meet the demand of current market conditions."

Ultimately, this course is designed to educate the innovators and future leaders of those working in emerging technologies. If students do not have the design or multimedia background for this advanced-level program, they can apply to the new, two-year Interactive Multimedia Developer program, which teaches the skills necessary for traditional multimedia.