FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common queries and explore valuable resources related to our program.

Program Questions

What prerequisite courses are required for a Master of Arts in Interaction Design and Interactive Art degree?

Requirement of a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 semester units of relevant undergraduate work, a portfolio of work reflecting the applicant's talents and abilities in digital and interactive media, and evidence of professional experience in relevant fields.

For non-major students who have compelling backgrounds in other disciplines, we offer pathways to the Master of Arts in Interaction Design and Interactive Art that include additional coursework. Based on review and consultation with the admission committee, we can offer a three-year program starting in the preceding fall to students who have the passion but lack prior experience in the production and design of interactive experiences.

A three-year option means that you will start in the fall semester and complete a year of preliminary courses before joining the regular cohort in the following year.

Are there potential grants, scholarships, or research/teaching assistant programs to bring the cost down?

The graduate program itself does not have any scholarships, and most financial support is restricted to resident students. California State University, East Bay does offer numerous forms of financial support for current graduate students. The Academic Programs and Graduate Studies (APGS) Student Services office coordinates the many programs that provide financial resources and educational opportunities in support of your graduate education. More information is available from Financial Aid.

How much does it cost?

Cost of attendance varies from student to student. For more information about tuition, fees, other costs, and financial aid, review Cal State East Bay's cost of attendance information.

Are there possibilities to work on campus?

Student employment and internship opportunities are offered by a variety of employers to Cal State East Bay students. Visit the AACE website and sign into the Pioneer Jobs portal to find jobs and internships.

How can I contact you?

You can reach us best by email at ixdia@csueastbay.edu. We are always happy to answer your questions.

Where can I learn more about you?

You can explore other sections of this website, such as the People page and Field Notes, to learn more about our mission, faculty, students, and culture.

Is it possible to arrange an online meeting to get more administration information?

In the spring we will have one or two group Zoom Q&A sessions for interested candidates. Questions should be asked via email. We get over 100 applications and generally do not have the staffing for one-on-one general meetings.

Application Questions

Is there an application fee waiver?

Fee waivers are not available to graduate applicants.

Where can I find the entire course structure, including credits for each course each semester?

Under Program, you can find the full course structure with credits per semester. On the CSUEB catalog page for Interaction Design and Interactive Art, M.A., you can also access each required course and its units.

What are the application deadlines?

Priority Application Period (Fall 2027): October 1 – November 30, 2026.

Final University Application due dates (Fall 2027): international students completed by May 1, 2027; resident students completed by May 15, 2027. Official transcripts must be received by June 1, 2027.

Department Application due dates: international students completed by May 1, 2027; resident students completed by May 1, 2027.

Your application will not be evaluated until all materials have been received.

What are the application fees for the program?

Applicants should submit their online University Application through Cal State Apply and pay the $70 non-refundable application fee. Applicants may not apply for more than one program or term at the same time. No application fee waivers are available to graduate students. If applying for a future term, any past-due application fees are still required and must be paid before enrollment in classes. Save the application submission confirmation page for your records.

When should we expect to hear about acceptance?

Admission application decisions are typically made 2 to 8 weeks after May 1, once all application materials have been received by the university.

What is my chance of getting admission without submitting a portfolio?

If you do not have a background in design, we recommend that you apply for the three-year option. To apply for the three-year option, please share a selection of your main skills in place of a design portfolio.

When does this program start?

We are cohort-based, so all students start in the fall. We do not admit students to start in the spring.

Can this program be completed in less than two years?

The M.A. IxDIA is a two-year degree program. Most coursework is offered in the evening. During the first year, students develop a theoretical foundation in interactive technology, enhance their creative skills, and learn to work effectively in teams. During the second year, small teams of students with various backgrounds and talents create innovative, professional-quality interactive projects.

Ideas for group projects can originate from students, faculty, or external sources. Many of CSU East Bay's student projects have won national and international awards.

Can students from other majors apply for the program?

Our students are a diverse group of individuals from many disciplines, including fashion design and business. For students who have compelling backgrounds in other disciplines, we offer pathways to the Master of Arts in Interaction Design and Interactive Art that include additional coursework.

Based on review and consultation with the admission committee, we can offer a three-year program starting in the preceding fall to students who have the passion but lack prior experience in the production and design of interactive experiences. A three-year option means that you will start in the fall semester and complete a year of preliminary courses before joining the regular cohort in the following year.

If my GPA does not meet 3.0, are there any other scores I can make up for it?

The GPA is one of several measures we consider when accepting students. If you show exceptional promise in your portfolio, work experience, or statement, we can consider how much weight your GPA should carry.

Is the program valid for STEM OPT extension?

Master of Arts in Interaction Design and Interactive Art is a STEM Designated program (CIP 09.0702) and qualifies for the STEM OPT extension. Interaction design is a STEM field, integrating elements of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Where do I apply?

You must complete the University and Department applications at Cal State Apply.

Does the program require GRE score submission?

We do not require GRE score submissions. Additional university application information is available from Graduate Studies.

International Student Questions

What are the application deadlines for international students?

Applications open October 1, with the priority application period running from October 1 through November 30, 2026 for the Fall 2027 cohort. IxDIA admits students to start in the Fall Semester only.

The final international application deadline is May 1, 2027. Official transcripts and WES evaluations must be received by June 1, 2027 for evaluation.

Can I apply with a three-year bachelor's degree?

We will consider highly qualified candidates with three-year bachelor's degrees that have been evaluated by WES. The department will review the portfolio and CV to see if you qualify.

How much does it cost?

The tuition is calculated as Graduate Base Fee for 6.1+ units plus non-resident tuition of $420.00/unit plus Student Involvement and Representation Fee. For I-20 requirements, you also need to account for health insurance and living expenses. More information is posted on the International Admissions fees and payments page.

Estimated tuition for an international student for Fall 2024 at 10 units: $4,553.50 base flat fee for 6.1+ units; $2.00 SIRF fee; $4,200.00 non-resident tuition; $8,755.50 total.

Is the program valid for STEM OPT extension for international students?

Yes. This designation makes it possible for international students with F-1 status to apply for the 24-month Optional Practical Training Extension for STEM Students (STEM OPT). The program allows students who have completed their degrees to obtain practical training through jobs that directly pertain to their fields of study.

If I have a master's degree in the UK, can I use this to waive the English test?

If you have a degree from a university whose primary language of instruction was English, you should not need to prove English proficiency. For all questions regarding international admission, check with the International Admissions Office at iao@csueastbay.edu.

Can I get a waiver on my English proficiency test?

CSU minimum standards for graduate students are listed under Graduate and Post Baccalaureate English Language Requirement on the International Admissions graduate admission requirements page. If still in doubt, contact the International Admissions Office at iao@csueastbay.edu regarding English proficiency.

Does the University Application accept unofficial transcripts and test scores?

The University Application process will accept unofficial transcripts and test scores for evaluation purposes to get an admission decision. If you are admitted, you will be required to submit final official documents before you will be able to enroll in classes.

Links to additional resources

International Admissions Office: Provides service to prospective students from overseas, students currently residing in the U.S. on a student visa, as well as any applicant with transcripts from a non-U.S. institution. More...
Office of Admissions: We are excited to review your application and the prospect of you joining our diverse and dynamic community. More...
University Housing & Residence Life: University Housing and Residence Life works to engage all residential students in their holistic development and academic success toward retention, graduation, and future endeavors. More...
Financial Aid: Financial Aid provides information and support for graduate students seeking financial resources. More...