The specializations in the IMA program are an evolving process. This information is current as of Thursday, June 4, 2026 and is subject to change and adapt over time.
[x] Very Serious Inquiry into Very Silly Topics Portal Survey Course
This course will function as a survey course and (re)introduction to academic writing. (Designed to run concurrently with Practice-based Research and Non-traditional Research Outputs.)
[ ] Academic Writing & Publishing This course will focus on deepening my academic writing skills with the goal of producing a draft to be submitted for publication in a peer reviewed journal.
[ ] Found Fiction & Speculative Nonfiction (+ Defictionalization?) Portal theory blurs the distinction between reality and fantasy/imagination. This course will explore writing styles and genres that balance on the edge between fiction and nonfiction.
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Para/social Relationships with Fictional Characters This course will explore the relationships between real people and their fictional faves, through the lens of autoethnography and fan studies.
Portals: Through the Wardrobe Door This course will explore the history of portal fantasy as a (sub)genre. It will combine academic and creative writing and build the concept of portal theory.
Soulbonding This is why I'm here, to do an autoethnographic study of an early/mid '00s fandom spirituality.
Imaginary Companions & Paracosms In this course, I will explore the phenomenon of imaginary friends and paracosms through scholarly work and representation in children’s literature.
A/R/Tography I will be doing a lot of emotionally difficult and intellectually rigorous work about imagination and fantasy during my IMA journey. This course will ground me in embodied research practice. (Designed to run concurrently with Very Serious Inquiry.)