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Interdisciplinary Programs

Extended Realities

Master's

Northeastern's MS in Extended Realities (XR) provides students with a deep understanding of the interdisciplinary skills, theoretical foundations, technologies, and processes essential for success in XR.

A person wearing augmented reality glasses interacts with virtual elements in an office setting. They are seated at a workstation with a microphone and computer screens in the background.
Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
16 - 24 Months
Entry Term(s)
Fall
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

Learn alongside XR experts

Northeastern’s Master of Science in Extended Realities (XR) provides students with a deep understanding of the interdisciplinary skills, theoretical foundations, technologies, and processes essential for creating impactful XR experiences.

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.

The program offers access to the innovation hub for XR tech and content on Northeastern’s Oakland campus, as well as proximity to companies like Meta, Unity, HTC Vive, Apple, Samsung, and XR games studios.

Specialize in the industry-aligned concentration offered by the College of Arts, Media and Design:

  • XR+games: Games are one of the most common uses for XR technology today. This concentration allows students to create and study games specifically designed for XR.

XR technologies have seen explosive growth over the last decade, and professionals with the skills to work in augmented, virtual, and mixed reality are in high demand.

  • 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)

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.


Fall Term

Priority deadline for scholarship consideration: February 1
Final deadline for international applicants:May 1
Final deadline for domestic applicants:August 1

  • Online application

  • Application fee

  • Resumé

  • Personal statement

  • Transcripts from all institutions attended

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

  • Three letters of recommendation TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo exam scores for international applicants

  • Portfolio

Program objectives

Prepare for success

The Master of Science 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.

Learn cutting-edge XR skills and tools

Students gain a deep understanding of XR theory, history, and state-of-the-art hardware and software for augmented, virtual, and mixed reality.

Immerse yourself in XR

Through critical analysis and hands-on projects, students learn to critique XR experiences, develop domain-specific vocabulary, craft engaging narrative content, and rapidly prototype innovative XR solutions.

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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Market outlook
Industry at a glance
Here's a look at current market trends and the career landscape.

Occupations

Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $72,065
    Tuition

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 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. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

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.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid
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