Academic programs
Interdisciplinary Programs
Master of Science in Extended Realities
Master’s Degree
Learn alongside Extended Realities (XR) experts in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area as you gain a deep understanding of the interdisciplinary skills, theoretical foundations, technologies, and processes essential for success in XR.
Location
Oakland, California
Commitment
Full-Time/Part-Time
Duration
24 months
Type
Classroom
Program overview
Through the MS in Extended Realities, you’ll gain valuable insight into XR theories, history, and state-of-the-art hardware and software for augmented, virtual, and mixed reality. Through critical analysis and hands-on projects, you’ll learn to critique XR experiences, develop domain-specific vocabulary, craft engaging narrative content, and rapidly prototype innovative XR solutions—all skills critical to creating impactful XR experiences.
Our master’s in XR offers access to the innovation hub for XR tech and content on Northeastern’s Oakland campus, as well as proximity to companies including Meta, Unity, HTC Vive, Apple, Samsung, and XR games studios.
You also can pursue a concentration in XR and games, enabling you to create and study games that are specifically designed for XR.
Program objectives
- Learn cutting-edge XR skills and tools.
- Gain a deep understanding of XR theory, history, and state-of-the-art hardware and software for augmented, virtual, and mixed reality.
- Learn to critique XR experiences through critical analysis and hands-on projects, developing domain-specific vocabulary, crafting engaging narrative content, and rapidly prototyping innovative XR solutions.
Career outlook
The MS in Extended Realities serves a growing market demand, as XR technologies are projected to see exponential industry growth with increasing career opportunities and high earning potential.
- 33% compounded annual XR market growth expected from 2022 through 2030 (Xrtoday.com)
- 23 million jobs are projected to be enhanced by XR technology by 2030 (Statista.com)
- $107,000 estimated total pay for an XR Developer in the U.S. (Glassdoor.com)
Curriculum
For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.
Experiential learning
Northeastern’s signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.
Tuition and aid
Tuition
$67.6K
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2024–2025 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Find detailed information on tuition and fees from Student Financial Services.
Finance your education
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
How to apply
Learn more about the College of Arts, Media and Design’s admissions process and required materials, including deadlines.