UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development Program Handbook

UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development Program Handbook cstudies.ubc.ca/mmwd cert

Contact Information UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development Continuing Studies The University of British Columbia 800 Robson Street Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 3B7 Registration and Client Services Tel: 604 822 1420 Fax: 604 822 1499 Email: client services@cstudies.ubc.ca Web: cstudies.ubc.ca/mmwd cert This program handbook is current as of January 2015. Note that future editions of this program handbook may contain changes to program requirements and policies that supersede those outlined in this handbook, except where participants are notified otherwise. Copyright 2015 The University of British Columbia All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

Contents Program Overview... 1 Program Vision and Mandate... 1 The Era of Digital Communications... 2 Program Approach and Objectives... 3 Overview of the Curriculum... 3 Who Should Take this Program?... 4 Program Benefits... 4 Curriculum... 5 Required Courses... 5 Elective Courses... 6 Changes to Curriculum... 6 Sequence of Courses... 6 Instructors... 7 Graduation Criteria... 7 Assessment Methods... 7 Program Completion Requirements... 7 Program Details and Fees... 8 Program Fees... 8 Program Format... 8 Program Policies... 9 Limited Enrolment... 9 Availability of Courses... 9 Taking Courses Prior to Applying to the Program... 9 Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)... 9 Course Substitution... 10 Length of Program... 10 Withdrawal and Cancellation Policy... 10 Academic Integrity... 10 Professional Conduct... 11 Use of Information Technology... 11 Admission Information... 11 Application Process... 12 Evaluation of Applications... 12 Contact Us... 13 Administration... 13 About UBC Continuing Studies... 13

Program Overview In the past 15 years, we have witnessed a far reaching restructuring in the way that information is developed and distributed. The essence of this restructuring is the move towards digital communications via computers and the Internet. The two powerful enabling elements of this process are rich media content in the form of text, graphics, animation, sound and video, coupled with online access. The UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development focuses on this transition by empowering participants with essential tools and techniques used to create and deliver digital media products. The part time program is designed for those interested in creating, publishing or presenting interactive multimedia to enhance professional skills or for personal development. The program is intended to complement the experience of those working in communications, marketing, advertising, education, entertainment and the arts, or any industry where digital communication is essential. The skills you learn here may expand on an existing skill set to help you build your portfolio, or it may be a new career path. The program provides a broad understanding of multimedia concepts and design principles while focusing on today s most dynamic communications medium. The curriculum offers a comprehensive introduction to multimedia and web development while allowing for specialization in specific subject areas through a series of elective courses. Program Vision and Mandate The UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development is a part time program designed for those interested in creating, publishing or presenting interactive digital media for personal development or enhancing professional skills. Multimedia communications surround us through online browsing, promotional signage and mobile devices. As organizations increasingly integrate their communications and organize the flow of information within networks, the need for trained communicators who are knowledgeable about digital media and communications increases. We have become accustomed to ubiquitous, always on communications and information access. The UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development teaches the essentials you need to participate in the growing and continuously changing field of computer mediated communications. Digital Media Business Processes and Production Content Creation UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development Software Skills and Techniques User Design and Communication The program offers a comprehensive introduction to digital media d l UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 1

The Era of Digital Communications Multimedia engages its audience and encourages dynamic interaction, making it one of today s most powerful communication tools. The design and integration of media components becomes more important than ever. Whether for desktop computer, mobile device, or digital displays, today s evolving digital communications are continually changing the way people work, learn and play. Organizations of every type increasingly require individuals knowledgeable in building solutions that meet organizational objectives and, more importantly, the needs of individuals and markets. Multimedia is the integration of digital text, graphics, animation, audio and video into forms of interactive communications. This content can be delivered through any combination of storage and distribution platforms, including websites, video, television series, advertising, infographics, digital signage and/or for interactive kiosks. Although it is common to speak of a multimedia industry, digital communications has broad applications across many industry sectors, opening new opportunities for enhanced communication at many levels. Industry Sector Publishing Traditional Form of Communications print publishing via books, magazines, newspapers, journals Digital Communications electronic publishing online or through e books Communications telephone, mail, fax HTML email, websites, video, voice and data conferencing, rich text messaging, social media Marketing and Sales Education Entertainment and the Arts Administration and Information Management corporate communications, advertising and public relations via print, radio and TV lecture, print, resource libraries, video, slides, overheads, slide sets drawing and painting, animation, film, theatre, music, games libraries, telephone help desks, paper records, resource centres, manual databases social media, kiosks, online marketing, e commerce, multimedia presentations, mobile services courseware, e learning, computerbased training, online resources, employee information portals digital animation, virtual reality, digital sound and music, DVD, interactive games networked databases, online self serve environments, kiosks, graphic interfaces UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 2

Program Approach and Objectives Approaching the subject from an interdisciplinary perspective, the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development teaches participants to view multimedia and web content development, management and distribution as a complex but integrated process. The key program objectives encourage participants to: understand the multimedia content development and distribution process, including its position in the overall publishing, communications and digital media development industries manage multimedia and web projects including effective teamwork, communication and problemsolving understand the creative, design and technical criteria for multimedia and web development analyze and critique multimedia and web content in its stored and distributed formats develop basic technical proficiency with multimedia and web applications and technologies. Overview of the Curriculum The curriculum for the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development was developed in consultation with an advisory committee consisting of representatives from academia and the digital media industry. The work of the advisory committee has resulted in a program that is academically strong while recognizing the importance of developing professional skills for the workplace. The program continues to evolve as new technologies and techniques emerge. The curriculum is grouped into required and elective courses. Required courses provide a foundation in the essentials of multimedia and web development, including technical knowledge and applied skills. Elective courses allow participants to customize the program to their particular needs. By selecting courses that meet special interests, participants can direct their studies in specialized areas. Electives may also be selected from a range of courses in Web Programming, Mobile Development and/or Social Media. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 3

Who Should Take this Program? The UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development is designed as an entry level program for those with an interest in content development, manipulation, production, and distribution using interactive technologies. This includes communicators and information providers who seek to enhance their professional expertise by broadening their skill set to new forms of digital media. It encompasses those working in the corporate sector, education, publishing, entertainment, advertising, the arts, the social service sector, health care, design, technical services and the small business sector, to name a few. Students graduating from the program have competencies that can assist them in careers such as interface design, multimedia development, web design, corporate communications, technical writing, or project management in a variety of industries, including interactive media companies or as freelance digital media developers. Other participants who complete the program may continue their existing employment but may assume responsibility for their organization s digital communications in areas such as corporate communications, content management, marketing, training or sales. It is expected that the future of digital media will see significant growth in areas such as mobile distribution, e commerce, online courseware and e learning, data storage systems, e publishing, corporate communications, virtual work and home entertainment. As a result, the demand for professional communicators and content developers with a combination of broad knowledge and specialized skills is central to the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development. Program Benefits The UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development offers many advantages to participants who are looking to integrate interactive communication techniques into their skill set in order to enhance their professional expertise. The program features the following advantages: an integrated program developed in consultation with multimedia educators and professionals a balance of theory and practice to support an interdisciplinary approach to cognitive, creative and technical skills development and understanding a solid foundation in interactive rich media communications a flexible learning schedule that allows participants to take the program part time or more intensively. The part time nature of the program also provides an opportunity for specialization. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 4

Curriculum The UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development curriculum consists of required and elective courses totaling 200 hours. The required courses offer a comprehensive introduction to multimedia and web technologies and development techniques. Elective courses allow for individual specialization in complementary areas of multimedia and web development. Program participants are encouraged to refer to either the UBC Continuing Studies calendar or the Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development website at cstudies.ubc.ca/mmwd cert for current course availability, times, dates, locations and descriptions. Note that the program evolves over time to meet the current realities of the technology and marketplace. Therefore, the learning objectives, subject areas, topics, instructors and assignments that make up the program will change over time to reflect the needs of program participants, new best practices and technologies, and the best use of University resources. The program may also change in duration, number of instructional hours or requirements for completion. Required Courses The following courses are required to graduate. Under certain circumstances, course substitutions can be made based on prior learning assessment (PLA), which may include relevant work experience. Fundamentals of Multimedia Production Writing for Multimedia and the Web HTML5 1: Fundamentals of Web Authoring User Interface Design Adobe Dreamweaver Level 1 Adobe Photoshop Levels 1 and 2 Project Management for Multimedia and the Web Introduction to Programming Basics Technical and Design Processes in Digital Media Development UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 5

Elective Courses Elective courses allow participants to focus their education on one or more areas of multimedia and web development. The following courses represent a selection of elective courses. For the current list of elective courses, visit the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development website at cstudies.ubc.ca/mmwd cert. Adobe Dreamweaver Level 2 Adobe Flash Level 1 Adobe Flash Level 2 Adobe Illustrator Levels 1 and 2 Adobe InDesign Levels 1 and 2 Applying Cascading Style Sheets Drupal 7: Website Creation and Management Final Cut Pro Levels 1 and 2 Search Engine Optimization and Analytics for Web Design Visual Design Or choose: Several Summer Institute intensive, daytime options As well as individual courses in Social Media, Web Programming and Mobile Technology. Curriculum is subject to change. All required and electives courses are subject to availability. Changes to Curriculum The learning objectives, subject areas, topics, speakers and assignments that make up the program change over time to reflect the needs of program participants, new best practices and technologies, and the best use of University resources. The program may also change in duration, number of instructional hours or requirements for completion. As the curriculum changes, the total cost of the program may also change to reflect the actual costs of program delivery. Sequence of Courses Program participants complete all required courses at their own pace and take sufficient elective courses to achieve a minimum of 200 hours of coursework. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 6

Instructors Courses in the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development are taught by professional developers and business people who bring their education and work experience into the classroom. Our instructors not only know media extensively because they create it daily, they also know how to teach and communicate their knowledge to participants. Our teaching staff includes instructors who work as independent consultants or as full time staff in multimedia and web development, graphic design, educational software development, sound and video production, and the entertainment industry. Graduation Criteria To be granted the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development, participants must successfully complete all required courses and sufficient elective courses to achieve a minimum of 200 hours. In addition, participants must attend a minimum of 80% of scheduled classes, tutorials or discussion sessions; successfully complete required program requirements with a minimum of 60% on all graded assignments, presentations, exams, etc.; and a Pass on portions of the program that are graded Pass/Fail. Assessment Methods Program participants are assessed in individual courses according to University assessment guidelines to ensure successful acquisition of required skills and concepts. Assessment is based on classroom attendance, participation, and satisfactory completion of assignments, exams, presentations and projects. Program Completion Requirements The most current information on program requirements is published in the UBC Continuing Studies calendar, available prior to the start of each term, and is posted at cstudies.ubc.ca/mmwd cert. As the program evolves, the following guidelines apply to minor program changes: as the list of required and elective courses changes, participants are expected to complete the overall required and elective hours that are mandatory at the date of their admission to the program participants who have completed courses that are subsequently removed from the program curriculum will receive credit for those courses. To fulfill hourly requirements, participants should choose all courses from the most current UBC Continuing Studies calendar (available online at: cstudies.ubc.ca). In the event of major program changes, participants will be notified of options for completing under old or new program requirements. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 7

Program Details and Fees Program Fees Program Administration Fee There is no fee to submit an application; however a one time CAD $200 administration fee is due upon acceptance into the program to cover administrative costs. Course Fees Fees are paid on a course by course basis and total approximately $6,645 CAD or higher depending on electives chosen and current course prices. Fees may be paid by Visa, MasterCard, cash, money order or certified cheque. Participants should be aware that textbooks and materials related to courses may constitute an additional cost in some cases. Fees are subject to change. Program Format The UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development is a part time program consisting of individual courses delivered in class sessions on specific topics in multimedia and web development. Courses employ a range of learning modes including lectures, computer labs and assignments. Some courses have online content that augments the in class curriculum. Emphasis is placed on developing a portfolio of multimedia and web based projects, as well as developing technical and conceptual skills via applied learning. Multimedia courses are taught in an information intensive way and focus on concepts and techniques. Participants are expected to practice what they learn outside of classes. As such, it is important for participants to have access to a computer to complete assignments and develop a portfolio. As a general rule, participants should plan on spending at least one hour working on assignments outside of class for each hour of classroom instruction. The part time format allows participants to work at their own pace and choose courses they wish to take. Courses are offered from one to three times a year depending on demand. Courses are typically between 9 to 15 hours in length and are scheduled during evenings or weekends over a period of several weeks. By taking three to five courses each term, participants may expect to complete the program in four to six terms (approximately 16 to 20 months). It may be possible to take the program more intensively, but participants should be aware that this depends on course availability and scheduling. Participants are expected to complete the program within two years. Under exceptional circumstances, extensions may be granted. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 8

Program Policies Limited Enrolment A limited number of applicants are admitted to the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development program. Meeting minimum requirements does not ensure admission to the program. Availability of Courses Most courses are scheduled during the evenings or weekends. Delivery format options and course locations are reviewed regularly to respond to changing technologies and participants needs. Please be aware that early registration is advised, as courses in this program are also available to non certificate participants. Course availability varies from term to term. Taking Courses Prior to Applying to the Program Multimedia courses are open to the public. To help participants decide if the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development is the appropriate educational program for them, participants may take up to 40 hours of courses before making a formal application to the program. In order to apply the credit for a course toward a certificate, participants must have attended the course within the past calendar year from the date of acceptance into the program and received a passing grade. Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) The UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development is intended to be a professional development program that builds upon the existing knowledge and experience of learners. As such, all participants are encouraged to complete their studies from the many optional courses available. Requests for recognition of prior learning or equivalent experience will be evaluated for required courses on an individual basis. To apply for PLA, complete and submit a Prior Learning Assessment form online at cstudies.ubc.ca/tmap pla. In cases where PLA is granted, participants are expected to complete the equivalent hours through additional elective courses. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 9

Course Substitution Under exceptional circumstances, part time participants may request permission to substitute a course that is not on the approved list of electives for credit toward the certificate. To apply for a course substitution, complete and submit a course substitution form online cstudies.ubc.ca/tmap course sub. Course substitutions must be approved by the program leader. Length of Program Participants must complete all requirements for graduation within two years of admission to the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development. Under exceptional circumstances, extensions may be granted. To apply for an extension, complete and submit a program extension request form online at cstudies.ubc.ca/tmap prog ext. Withdrawal and Cancellation Policy Withdrawing from a Course UBC Continuing Studies requires notice of withdrawal from a course at least three business days before the course begins. Contact our Client Services office at 604 822 1420 and quote the course name, course number and date of instruction. After such notification, UBC Continuing Studies will refund the course fee minus a minimum administrative charge of $50. Withdrawing from the Program Participants may withdraw from the program at any time but should notify Client Services in writing of the reasons for the withdrawal. Course Cancellations UBC Continuing Studies may sometimes cancel courses due to insufficient enrolment or other reasons. If this occurs, a full refund is processed and mailed automatically. UBC Continuing Studies does not guarantee that a particular course will be offered at a particular time. Academic Integrity UBC Continuing Studies is committed to academic integrity and takes academic misconduct seriously. Penalties for cheating, plagiarizing or other academic misconduct may include dismissal from the program or course with a failing grade and no refund of fees. For information about UBC s policy on this matter, see universitycounsel.ubc.ca/policies/policy85.pdf. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 10

Professional Conduct UBC Continuing Studies fosters positive learning environments that respect the diversity of individuals and apply standards in keeping with appropriate conduct in professional workplaces. Students are expected to adhere to professional standards of behaviour. In particular, the ability to work respectfully in a team environment and with other students, instructors and staff is essential. UBC Continuing Studies reserves the right to require a student to withdraw from a program at any time for unsatisfactory professional conduct. In such cases there will be no refund of tuition. Use of Information Technology Participants must abide by the UBC Responsible Use of Information Technology guidelines. For details, see it.ubc.ca/service_catalogue/information_security/security/security_policies.html. Admission Information To accommodate learners from a variety of backgrounds, the admission requirements for the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development are fairly broad. However, all applicants must have the following: graduation from grade 12 (or equivalent) OR mature student status (age 19 prior to the start of classes). Applicants will preferably have some post secondary education. to protect the computer security of UBC students and instructors who will be communicating with one another digitally throughout this program, students must have the latest version of antivirus software installed on their computer. working knowledge of computers, including: o o o o the ability to work in both Windows and Macintosh operating systems familiarity with online browsing, media viewers, file storage and transfer an email address an understanding of how to download and install software applications on their computer. Fluency in the English language (business English written and oral skills) before entering the program. Note: a TOEFL or IELTS English Language score may be requested. Participants admitted to the program without sufficient computer literacy may be required to complete 15 to 45 hours of background courses to develop computer hardware knowledge and the appropriate software skills. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 11

It is also recommended that applicants have work experience in a field that has provided a skill set considered transferable to electronic communications, as well as the ability to work as part of a team. Application Process The UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development has a formal admissions procedure which ensures quality education and student support services. The admissions process also helps to ensure that the needs, intentions and expectations of participants are adequately matched to the program's objectives and capabilities. Admission to the program may be limited by the availability of courses, facilities and instructors. Applicants should read and thoroughly understand this Program Handbook before applying to the program. To accommodate lifelong learners, applications to the part time program are accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis. In order to apply to the program, individuals must complete the application form and submit it with supporting documents to the address indicated. An application form is located online at cstudies.ubc.ca/tmap app or through the UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development website at cstudies.ubc.ca/mmwd cert. In addition to completing the form thoroughly, applicants should also provide the following to support their application: a résumé or curriculum vitae documenting education achievements, recent work and volunteer experience a detailed letter of intent that specifies goals, interests, program expectations, and comments on their level of computer knowledge and experience (minimum 300 words, maximum 800 words) names and phone numbers of three professional and/or educational references. Evaluation of Applications The admissions committee evaluates applications based on the following criteria: compatibility of letter of intent with current program goals and objectives suitability of previous education and work experience sufficient computer skills. Once applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified as to whether they have been accepted into the program. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 12

Contact Us For more information about the program or the application process, please contact us. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development Technology, Media and Professional Programs Continuing Studies The University of British Columbia 800 Robson Street Vancouver, BC, Canada V6Z 3B7 Tel: 604 822 1420 Fax: 604 822 1499 Email: client services@cstudies.ubc.ca Online Application Form: cstudies.ubc.ca/tmap app Administration Program Administration Fiona McAuley, Senior Program Leader, Technology, Media and Professional Programs, UBC Continuing Studies UBC Continuing Studies Administration Judith Plessis, Associate Vice President, UBC Continuing Studies Peter Moroney, Associate Executive Director, UBC Continuing Studies Vince Wong, Business Manager, UBC Continuing Studies Faid Saffou, Lab Manager, Technology, Media and Professional Programs, UBC Continuing Studies About UBC Continuing Studies UBC Continuing Studies has been offering internet and multimedia courses since the late 1980s. With more than 50 courses and programs in digital media communications offered each term, UBC Continuing Studies is one of the largest providers of interactive media related courses in Canada. In addition to the Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development, UBC Continuing Studies offers numerous other programs for professional and career development, including: UBC Certificate in Digital Strategy UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 13

UBC Certificate in Project Management UBC Certificate in Program Management UBC Certificate in Business Analysis Certificate in Web Intelligence UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional Award of Achievement in Digital Analytics Award of Achievement: HTML5 Academy Award of Achievement in Project Management Using MS Project Award of Achievement: Project Management for Tomorrow s Leaders Award of Achievement in Sustainability Management Award of Achievement in Social Media As well as courses in Mobile Technology, Web Programming, IT Certification, and Office Technology. UBC Continuing Studies has won numerous educational awards over the years, including: Awards of Excellence from the Canadian Association of University Continuing Education (1997, 1999, 2000, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008) 2002 National E Business Leadership Award in E Learning Innovative Programming Award from the North American University Continuing Education Association (1999, 2001). UBC Continuing Studies is committed to providing leading edge educational opportunities in media and technology with foresight into the continuing demand for well educated knowledge workers. UBC Certificate in Multimedia and Web Development 14