Course Introduction

Step into the evolving world of the metaverse with a comprehensive look at its origins, current applications, and future potential. This course begins by breaking down key concepts and tracing the evolution of the metaverse from early virtual environments to its expanding role across industries such as marketing, product design, retail, social media, fashion, and gaming.

Participants will explore current metaverse technologies, projected advancements, and the design and infrastructure challenges that shape its future. Through guided exercises and discussions, you’ll conceptualize metaverse experiences and develop ideas tailored to a specific industry of your choice. Whether you’re new to the topic or looking to deepen your understanding, this course offers practical insight into navigating and leveraging the metaverse.

Course Description

This course explores the foundations of the metaverse and its growing influence on technology, society, and business. It examines the historical evolution and convergence of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and alternate digital realities, as well as their potential to shape immersive, connected experiences.

Using transmedia storytelling as a guiding framework, participants will investigate how these technologies influence human interaction and open up new creative and commercial opportunities in the digital space.

 

Why Choose the Managing AR, VR, & Metaverse Course at Northeastern?

End-to-End Metaverse Exploration:

Trace the full evolution of the metaverse, from its early foundations to its current impact across marketing, retail, gaming, social media, and more

Cross-Industry Relevance:

Examine how AR, VR, and immersive environments are transforming industries—from fashion and product design to digital communities and commerce.

Design and Technology Insight:

Understand the infrastructure and creative design challenges that shape metaverse experiences and influence adoption across sectors.

Hands-On Concept Development:

Apply your learning through guided exercises that help you design and conceptualize metaverse experiences tailored to your own industry.

Meet the Course Creator

Don-M

Dr. Donald Marinelli

Dr. Donald Marinelli is a Senior Consultant at Point Park University and an Adjunct Professor at Northeastern University. Previously, he held the position of Director of Innovation for Inven Global Esports, the English-language website for Inven-Korea, the leading eSports and video game website in Korea with over an 80% market share. Dr. Marinelli also serves as the Associate Director of the Entertainment Technology Management program at Columbia University in the City of New York and as a Visiting Professor in the School of Arts, Media, and Engineering at Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona…

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