Unlocking the magic: Disney adventures bring storytelling to life

What if your homework involved riding Space Mountain or unraveling the secrets behind Hogwarts Castle ? At Ohio University, students trade textbooks for theme park blueprints in the  Storytelling, Technology and Digital Media in Theme Parks  course, where the magic of Disney isn’t just admired, it’s analyzed. 

Offered through the Scripps College of Communication , this one-of-a-kind class takes students on an adventure through technology, media and marketing, culminating in an immersive, behind-the-scenes journey to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. The semester-long class involves more than just visiting the parks; students decode the intricate storytelling techniques that make theme parks unforgettable.

“This class and this trip were some of the best experiences I've had in my life” said Papa Hughes, a 2024 participant. “Spending 14 weeks with your classmates and then going to Disney together is an unforgettable experience.”

Professors Beth Novak and John Bowditch have been leading students behind the magic of the world’s most immersive attractions since 2013. Every ride, park and show is designed to transport guests into a new reality, and this class unpacks the methods behind that illusion.

“I had the idea to create this course after visiting Disney and speaking with a student whose family regularly visits the parks,” Novak said. “We had a deep conversation about immersion, media and how they combine to create the best guest experience. That moment sparked the idea for a class where students could learn how theme park storytelling works.”

Students study soundscapes, set design and special effects to understand how every detail contributes to a story. Open to juniors and seniors majoring in journalism , media arts and studies , communication studies , information and telecommunications systems (ITS) and visual communication , the course attracts those eager to turn their passion for storytelling into a career.

The highlight of the semester is a week-long trip to Orlando, where students gain insider access to the industry’s biggest names. Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort, they participate in exclusive workshops, behind-the-scenes tours and networking sessions with professionals including Ohio University alumni working in themed entertainment.

For students like Katie Williams, the trip is a game-changer.

“This was genuinely one of the most magical and memorable experiences of my life,” Williams said. “If you are interested in immersion, storytelling or theme park design, this class is an absolute must.”

Beyond academics, the experience builds lifelong friendships. Erin Bishop called it “the most rewarding and inspiring class I have ever taken.”

Students also tour theme parks with a fresh perspective, analyzing what makes attractions unforgettable. From walking through the streets of Diagon Alley to discovering the intricate details of Galaxy’s Edge, every moment is a lesson in world-building and innovation.

This course is not just about studying theme parks. It is a launchpad for careers in entertainment, media and themed experiences. Alumni have gone on to work for Disney, Universal Studios and other top industry leaders, while others have participated in the Disney College Program or contributed to media projects inspired by theme park storytelling.

Novak’s expertise in immersive storytelling provides students with a unique opportunity to learn from a seasoned industry professional. In a recent video, she discusses the creative and technical elements that bring themed entertainment to life, highlighting how storytelling, technology, and design work together to create engaging guest experiences. Watch as she shares insights into the industry and the hands-on approach that helps students develop the skills needed to contribute to the future of themed entertainment.