Online MATC gets 100 percent acceptance rate for inaugural class

The school's new online Master of Arts in Technology and Communication had a 100 percent acceptance rate for its inaugural group of students, who will start their coursework in August.

"We had a truly outstanding field of finalists for the 20 available places in the program, and paring the list down was extremely difficult," said Louise Spieler, associate dean for professional education and strategic initiatives, who oversees the program. "The MATC admissions committee was very impressed with our applicants' qualifications and credentials. We're thrilled that everyone offered admission is enrolling." The first class includes four J-school alumni.

The MATC is an innovative online master’s degree that focuses on interactive media, the Internet and digital economics, addressing issues that are reshaping journalism and mass communication. The program is designed for working professionals with at least three years of communications-related experience. All courses are taught online. Students travel to campus twice: for a two-day orientation in August and for a weeklong summer residency between the first and second years of the program.

The deadline to apply for fall 2012 admission is Jan. 1, 2012. More information is at matc.jomc.unc.edu.