The Digital Research Entertainment Arts Media Sciences (D.R.E.A.M.S.) Program
Shaping the Future of Entertainment
The (D.R.E.A.M.S.) Program is an innovative program designed to prepare students for careers in Location-Based Entertainment (LBE). At D.R.E.A.M.S., imagination meets innovation, creating a launchpad for the next generation of storytellers, creators, and visionaries.
Projected to be a multi-billion-dollar industry by 2032 (over $20 billion in market size), LBE is transforming the entertainment industry. From theme parks to immersive media, interactive museums to virtual production, LBE is creating unforgettable experiences that blend technology, storytelling, and physical space.
In alignment with the School of Communication’s mission, we’re leading the charge by offering world-class education, hands-on projects, and direct industry access to train the next wave of pioneers in immersive entertainment, gaming, and digital storytelling.
The D.R.E.A.M.S Program will allow students to major in LBE as part of their Global Strategic Communication Master’s program, earn a certificate, or receive a micro-credential.
What Is Location-Based Entertainment (LBE)?
Location-Based Entertainment (LBE) refers to immersive, interactive experiences designed for physical and digital venues where audiences engage with entertainment in real-world and virtual environments. From theme parks and spatial realities to live events and immersive theaters, LBE blends cutting-edge technology, digital media, and physical/digital spaces to create unforgettable experiences that go beyond traditional entertainment.
The D.R.E.A.M.S. Program will allow students to explore the full spectrum of LBE, with a focus on its evolution, innovation, and business potential. It will dive into key areas such as interactive storytelling, experiential design, virtual production, gaming, simulation, and the integration of digital and physical worlds.
Examples of LBE:
- Theme Parks & Attractions (Disney, Universal, Six Flags)
- Immersive Experiences & AR/VR Installations (Meow Wolf, The Sphere, Dreamscape)
- Interactive Museums & Exhibits (Smithsonian, Museum of Ice Cream, Van Gogh Experience)
- Gaming & Esports Venues (LAN Centers, Virtual Reality Arenas)
- Concerts, Events & Festivals (Coachella, SXSW, Live Nation Productions)
- Smart Cities & Experiential Spaces (Interactive Retail, AI-Powered Experiences)
Potential Career Opportunities
With an education in LBE, you can become a pioneer in immersive entertainment with career paths such as:
- LBE Experience Designer (theme parks, interactive installations)
- Immersive Media Producer (virtual reality, mixed reality experiences)
- Game & Interactive Content Creator (Esports, AR/VR, Metaverse)
- Themed Entertainment & Attractions Developer
- Event & Live Production Manager
- LBE Business & Operations Executive (venue management, marketing, monetization)
- Architectural & Experiential Space Designer
- Digital Human & AI Experience Developer
- Experiential Marketing Strategist