What Is Digital Media?
Find out about the field of digital media, including careers in the industry and schools offering digital media degree programs.
The rise in technology has led to a revolution in how we receive and share information. As such, digital media has become a major player in our everyday lives.
But what is digital media exactly? What are some of the careers you could pursue in this field? Do any schools offer digital media degree programs?
Keep reading as we explore the answers to these questions.
What Is Digital Media?
Digital media is difficult to define. Broadly speaking, it is any kind of digital application or computer system which contains and spreads information.
Examples of digital media include:
- online news websites
- apps on your phone
- audiobooks
- streaming services
- social media
Digital media has largely replaced previous forms of media, known as traditional or analog media. Examples of these include newspapers, radio, and television.
Digital media is typically available instantly at your fingertips and has allowed for greater connection across countries and cultures. It has truly revolutionized the spread of information.
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Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers more than 300 online degree programs, certificates and courses. ASU Online delivers the same rigorous academic programs as on campus, with the flexibility you need to succeed.
What Are Some Digital Media Careers?
There are many careers in the digital media industry. Let's take a look at a few of the most common examples.
Digital Media Specialists
Digital media specialists are unspecialized professionals who can work in various areas of digital media. For example, they may be able to find jobs in video editing, social media, or digital photography.
Digital media specialists have a wide range of computer and technological skills. They can apply these skills across a number of specific roles and positions.
This is an excellent career for anyone with a multitude of skills and interests relating to digital media.
Copywriter
Copywriters focus on creating effective digital advertisements and promotional campaigns. They use their skill with words to capture the attention of potential consumers with short attention spans.
Some copywriters work remotely, while others work in an office setting. They collaborate or work independently to create messages, slogans, or other forms of advertising media.
This is a great role for anyone who enjoys writing and has a knack for promoting and selling goods or services.
Graphic Designer
Graphic designers are all about graphics and animation. They create various types of digital media such as logos, websites, posters, visual advertisements, and product labels.
They use specialized types of digital software to bring their creations to life. Their job involves creating new digital illustrations and editing or updating existing designs.
Those who enjoy creating digital art would be a perfect fit for any graphic design role.
Social Media Specialist
Social media specialists and managers specialize in social media. They often work for companies or individuals, managing and maintaining their social media platforms.
This may include writing updates on their employer's behalf, creating promotional campaigns using social media, and communicating with fans or customers via social media.
If you're familiar with a variety of social media platforms and enjoy creating posts and updates, consider becoming a social media specialist.
Content Strategist
Content strategists often work closely with social media managers and graphic designers. Their job is to promote a company's brand through creating effective content strategies.
This often involves planning social media campaigns and other digital promotional events. Content strategies determine the best ways to reach customers using digital content.
If you enjoy planning and implementing promotional strategies, becoming a content strategist may be an ideal career for you.
What Colleges Offer Digital Media Degrees?
As digital media becomes more ingrained in our everyday life, more and more colleges are introducing digital media programs. Let's look at a few that offer these online degree programs.
1. Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University is headquartered in Lubbock and is the founding member of a five-university system.
This school offers a Bachelor of Arts in digital media and professional communication. This versatile program provides a solid foundation in digital media and allows you to personalize your degree.
You will be able to choose from a wide variety of elective and major courses so that your degree will fit your individual career goals. All courses can be completed either online or in person.
2. Arizona State University
Arizona State University is located in Phoenix. It offers a wide variety of degree programs through its online campus.
One of those programs is a Bachelor of Arts in digital media literacy. This degree program prepares you for a career in digital media and helps you learn to spot misinformation and communicate effectively.
All courses are offered in accelerated seven and a half week blocks, and you have the freedom to take classes on a schedule that works for you.
3. Maryville University
Maryville University is a private school located in Maryville, MO. A majority of its students obtain their degrees by studying online.
Consider pursuing an online Bachelor of Fine Arts in digital media through this school. This program is especially for students interested in a visual media career such as graphic design or video editing.
All courses are flexible, allowing you to study on your own time. You can also take advantage of the school's generous transfer policy if you already have existing college credit.
Pursue a Career in Digital Media
Digital media is the future of information. If you want to pursue a career in this rapidly expanding field, consider the roles and degree programs discussed in this article.
