In a groundbreaking move, Southeast Technical University (SETU) in Carlow, Ireland, is set to pioneer a degree program tailored for aspiring social media influencers. The ‘Bachelor of Arts in Content Creation and Social Media’ is poised to usher in a new era of formal education in the art of digital influence. This revolutionary four-year program, slated to commence in September 2024, is designed to equip students with a comprehensive skill set, empowering them to navigate the dynamic world of influencer management and content creation with confidence.
Crafting Influencers of the Future
The ‘Bachelor of Arts in Content Creation and Social Media‘ is a response to the meteoric rise of the social media influencing sector. This remarkable growth underscores the need for formalised education in this burgeoning field.
This innovative program covers an array of critical topics, nurturing students in areas such as business acumen, video and audio editing, critical cultural studies, and creative writing. These skills are crucial for thriving in the competitive landscape of digital content creation. Dr Eleanor O’Leary, a media and communications lecturer at SETU, affirmed that graduates would be well-prepared for careers as self-employed influencers or as content creators for companies and organisations.
Moreover, this degree program addresses the knowledge gap that aspiring influencers often face, particularly in contractual, agency, and business aspects of the industry. While some individuals may stumble into the world of influencing, this program offers a structured pathway to success. It educates students on audience-building, engagement, and collaboration with businesses to monetize their influence.
This pioneering initiative heralds a new chapter in the world of education, recognizing the evolving digital landscape and preparing students for impactful careers in the realm of social media influencing. It marks an era where influencers can receive formal education and be equipped with the skills necessary to excel in this dynamic industry.
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Navigating the Influencer Universe: Crisis Management
Notably, the program includes a unique ‘Crisis Management’ module, emphasising the importance of responsible influence. In today’s age of digital media, where influencers hold considerable sway, it’s crucial to understand how to manage PR crises effectively. The module engages students in analysing social media crisis case studies, enabling them to discern strengths and weaknesses in crisis-management responses.
As part of their studies, students are tasked with creating a crisis management plan for a fictitious crisis scenario. This project involves crafting press statements and organising mock press conferences, simulating real-world situations. It underscores the ethical responsibilities that come with wielding influence in the digital sphere.
The introduction of this crisis management component reflects the program’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible influencers who understand the power they hold and are equipped to use it wisely.
The Global Influencer Landscape and the Road Ahead
The global influencer market, estimated at around $21 billion, presents a wealth of opportunities for aspiring influencers. Southeast Technical University’s pioneering program recognizes this demand and offers a structured path for individuals to transform their passion for social media into a fulfilling career.
While SETU’s program is a unique offering in Ireland, it joins the ranks of educational institutions worldwide that are responding to the rising demand for influencer-focused education. An Ohio community college offers a ‘Media Influencer Certificate,’ and numerous degrees in digital marketing and social media are available in the UK. Additionally, Arizona State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication with a specialisation in Social Media Management.
The ‘Bachelor of Arts in Content Creation and Social Media’ at Southeast Technical University in Carlow represents a progressive stride towards acknowledging the significance of influencers in the digital age. It sets the stage for future influencers to receive formal education, acquire valuable skills, and contribute responsibly to the ever-evolving world of social media influence. As the influencer landscape continues to evolve, education programs like this will play a pivotal role in shaping the influencers of tomorrow.
