Creative computing

SMU Meadows Bachelor of Arts in creative computing is a dynamic, interdisciplinary program where computer code becomes a medium for artistic expression, technological experimentation and innovation. The program encourages students to approach technology as a tool for storytelling and aesthetic exploration. This degree gives you a foothold in the evolving world of digital art.

Graduates of the program emerge fully literate in at least one major programming language, such as Java, JavaScript/TypeScript, Python and C++, and are able to develop a fully functional software project from concept through deployment, including platform integration, installation, debugging and maintenance. You will be able to bridge multiple disciplines and synthesize original technology-driven solutions and be equally comfortable applying creative and computational methods, approaches and processes in solving problems.

Your degree will give you the ability to work across multiple segments of the digital economy in roles such as interactive designers and/or developers, creative AI developers, creative technologists, software engineers, project managers, fine artists and entrepreneurs.

Nike, Tracy-Locke and Citibank are among several companies that have hired Meadows creative computing graduates. Companies like these are looking for people who understand the digital realm, keep pace with fast-evolving technology and apply digital muscle to the company’s operations and services. Meadows creative computing students are nimble with coding and several computer languages, combining technical expertise with creative and innovative problem solving.

See advice from SMU Meadows alumni for anyone considering a creative computing degree.

Creative computing centers on the use of computer science to create digital art and expression. The degree falls under the Meadows School of the Arts primarily, but because it is intrinsically linked to computer coding, it includes coursework from the Lyle School of Engineering.

Our creative computing students are nimble with coding and several computer languages. This program combines creative and innovative problem solving with technical expertise on par with computer science majors.

Creative computing is a degree that gives a lot of flexibility and options in the fast-evolving world of technology and its applications – a world that continues to grow year after year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, creative computing jobs are expanding rapidly, particularly in software development, web design and digital animation.

Your degree will give you the ability to work across multiple segments of the digital economy in roles such as interactive designers and/or developers, creative AI developers, creative technologists, software engineers, project managers, fine artists and entrepreneurs.

Sample jobs in creative computing – including jobs held by graduates of SMU’s creative computing bachelor’s program –include management consulting company analyst, associate software engineer, software developer, app developer and product developer.

Not at all. Although it’s a requirement for graduation, through the curriculum you will learn coding such as Java, JavaScript/TypeScript, Python and C++ through courses like Creative Coding I, II and III and Principles of Computer Science I and II.

Combining engineering, computer science, and the arts and humanities, creative computation uses technology as a powerful medium to create 2D and 3D works of art, augmented performance, intelligent physical spaces and real-time interactivity.

Creative computing is increasingly used for immersive museum exhibits, interactive installations, scientific data research, television commercials, music videos and more.

All SMU Meadows students have outstanding opportunities for stellar internships and collaborations on campus. Students have the benefit of being in Dallas, a top-five media market, home to numerous Fortune 500 companies and the nation’s largest urban arts district.

Interdisciplinary projects are facilitated through the Center of Creative Computation, a research and teaching center that explores computation as a universal generative medium, integrating creative development, quantitative analysis and interdisciplinary synthesis. Another interdisciplinary opportunity is the Southern Methodist Interdisciplinary Live Ensemble (SMILE) course, a for-credit ensemble of musicians and performers that performs live at events like the New York Electroacoustic Music Festival.

Read more about how students and alumni have found these experiences helped prepare them for their careers.