Curriculum draws on mass communication track with new production electives
The new bachelor’s degree in content creation at Arizona State University draws on ASU’s existing mass communication and media studies program, The Associated Press reported. The major departure is a slate of specialized electives covering podcasting, studio production, and on-camera presence.
The degree is offered through ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
The launch comes as digital media and the people who star in it have been cultural mainstays for teens’ entire lives, so creating social media, video or podcast content seems a natural, albeit nontraditional, career path. Ask a teen what they want to be when they grow up, according to AP, and there is a fair chance that being an influencer is on their list.
ASU’s announcement drew swift criticism. Some critics argued that content creation is not a legitimate profession. Others questioned the value of a college degree in launching a social media career.