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Spend any amount of time on the internet, and you’ll see just how much content you have at your fingertips. From news articles to blog posts to videos, over 5 billion computer users can easily access anything they want or need online.
Of course, media doesn’t magically appear on a website. Savvy, tech-loving creatives utilize their digital skills to make content appeal to the masses.
Suppose you’re someone with an affinity for all things computer-related who enjoys engaging in a creative hobby, such as art, writing, photography, or videography. Then, you may want to consider pursuing a degree in digital media.
What Is a Degree in Digital Media?
A bachelor’s degree in digital media typically comprises topics in computer programming, web design, graphic design, film studies, communications, and photography. However, students are apt to find an exhaustive list of course options, which may vary by school and specialization.
Most four-year digital media programs culminate in a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degree. While some students may seek a degree in digital media with a concentration in a related subject, others may choose a more specific major in the field, such as computer science, video production, journalism, or digital marketing.
Like all college majors, digital media programs aim to prepare students for the workforce. If you’ve decided this is the right major, regularly meeting with your academic advisor and chasing internships for on-the-job training can help you reach your career goals after graduation.
What Can I Do With a Degree in Digital Media?
As the technology field advances and more users turn to digital content for news and entertainment, the demand for professionals who generate, revise, and disseminate content through various online platforms is high.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects media and communications careers will increase 14% from 2020 to 2030, resulting in another 151,500 new openings.
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in digital media may be interested in the following career paths.
Video Editor
Video is hot right now as marketers have made it central to their online marketing strategy in 2022. Of course, top-notch video content requires exceptional video editing skills.
Video editors are responsible for editing footage shot by camera operators and videographers. They often work alongside producers and directors to ensure the final product is best suited to the intended audience.
With the prevalence of streaming services, employment for video editors will likely increase by 29% by 2030. This is mainly due to the recent boom in streaming services. For example, Netflix gained 16 million subscribers in the first three months of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Meanwhile, Disney+ had nearly two million pre-launch subscribers in the United States in November 2019.
Multimedia Artist
Multimedia art is a growing market of professionals who utilize technological tools to create designs and animations for digital media. Individuals in this field work across several industries, including film and television, video games, and online publishing.
Companies may hire multimedia artists to generate brand awareness and promote services and products. Many multimedia artists are also adept in computer design programs that enable them to produce special effects and computer-generated images (CGI).
The job growth for multimedia artists is expected to rise by 16% in the coming decade. This is a positive trend for prospective graduates with expertise in the latest animation and visual effects software.
Copywriters and Content Writers
Every website you visit has written content generated by content writers and copywriters. In digital marketing, copywriters play a critical role in developing copy that appeals to a business’s consumer base.
Copywriters use common marketing principles and search engine optimization (SEO) to write blog posts, long-form content, sales copy, or email campaigns. However, whereas copywriters aim to sell your brand to consumers, content writers create engaging content that clients can use to inform, educate, or entertain website visitors while increasing website traffic.
Digital media majors who are excellent writers may wish to put their skills to the test by pursuing a copywriting or content writing career. With 97% of companies incorporating written content in their online marketing strategy, having a clear understanding of digital media trends and consumer interests is highly desirable.
Sound Engineering Technicians
Sound engineering technicians — or sound mixers — operate special equipment to record, edit, and ensure optimal sound quality.
Sound engineers may record music and speeches or dub dialogue and special audio effects for film and television. Many times, sound mixers also convert audio recordings to various digital formats.
Music production, movies, television, video games, podcasts, and live sporting events are only a handful of industries sound engineers may work — and while the anticipated job growth is expected to reach 21% by 2030, sound engineering is a fairly competitive field.
Social Media Specialist
Approximately 70% of Americans use social media, with YouTube and Facebook the most widely used online platforms for content sharing.
As marketers have tried to maximize this phenomenon for creating stronger brand-to-consumer relationships, the role of social media specialists has taken many digital media occupations by storm.
Social media specialists apply their digital media knowledge and marketing skills to implement social media campaigns across various networks. Expertise in website design, writing, and editing content — including copy and video — enables social media specialists to increase user engagement and garner consumer trust.
Opportunities Abound for Digital Media Majors
Students majoring in digital media have a great career outlook ahead of them. The combination of technology and communication skills are some of the most desirable amongst companies across all sectors, and graduates can continuously find new and exciting ways to apply their learning to a fulfilling role.
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Ginger Abbot is the writer, founder and Editor-in-Chief behind Classrooms. Through her work, she hopes to inspire students, grads, and educators on their own journey through learning. Find her professional portfolio here: https://classrooms.com/professional-portfolio-of-ginger-abbot/
