In the ever-changing world of “new media,” the opportunities for digital media jobs are vast. Whether you’re already working in content development, social media, marketing, or design, a digital media degree can help prepare you for success.
Communications professionals play all kinds of roles in shaping culture and the way we view the world. Read along to learn more about how a degree in digital media can advance your career and explore some examples of exciting jobs in this field.
What to expect from a digital media degree
The interdisciplinary nature of the digital media field means programs can vary widely in their scope and focus. It’s important to do your research and find one that suits your interests and goals. If you’re a professional who plans to work while pursuing an advanced degree, look for programs that offer flexible options like online and evening classes.
Generally speaking, a degree in digital media will introduce students to theory, tools, and technologies in the world of digital communication. Depending on the specific area of study, you will typically pursue a Master of Arts or Master of Science degree. You might have the option to select concentrations or elective courses in business, healthcare, and other industries that invest heavily in digital media.
Hands-on learning opportunities and access to academic mentors are some of the most important components to look for in a comprehensive digital media program.
Common courses you'll take in a digital media degree
To give you a taste of the curriculum associated with a digital media degree, here are some examples of courses from the program at Bellarmine University:
Skills developed in a digital media program
Because professionals in this field often work on creative, goal-oriented, high-performing teams, small group work is often a crucial component of the curriculum.
Students enrolled in a postgraduate digital media degree can expect to gain the following:
Involvement with multidisciplinary teams in a global and diverse workplace
Understanding of the ethical and legal considerations of digital media tools
Opportunities to evaluate digital marketing environments
5 Exciting digital media careers for degree holders
The digital media field combines content and technology to make engaging, informative, and entertaining products and experiences. The job opportunities in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors are myriad and span many industries.
We compiled a list of exciting jobs in the digital media space to help you gain a better understanding of your potential career paths.
1. Web developer/digital designer
The employment outlook for this field is stellar, with new jobs being created at a much faster rate than average. Web developers and designers are responsible for creating, maintaining, testing, and creating content for websites. They might work with coding languages like HTML or XML, in addition to graphics, audio, and video components. This job requires both technical and creative competency.
Marketing managers plan and execute strategic plans to grow awareness and/or demand for a product or service. They are skilled in audience and market research, monitoring trends, and working closely with sales and communications teams. Marketing managers are also often adept at planning and integrating campaigns across many forms of media like radio, TV, digital, print, and out-of-home.
3. Multimedia digital artist
The digital art/animation world is a fascinating combination of technology and creativity. Multimedia digital artists work on cartoons, comics, 3D movies, computer games, smartphone apps, and much more. This field is projected to maintain a stable job growth rate but is also highly competitive as artists often develop special expertise in a certain style or medium.
4. Videographer/video editor
Making TV, movies, and documentaries requires talent on both ends of the camera. Videographers and camera operators capture the footage, and editors work with producers and directors to create the final product. Job opportunities for digital media professionals in this particular field are booming, in part due to the popularity of streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.
5. Digital content strategist
With most contemporary companies maintaining a multi-channel presence – website, YouTube, blog, social media, etc. – there is a high demand for strategic writers. Digital content strategists develop and execute initiatives that find ways to engage with target markets, build credibility, and strengthen brand loyalty. They write copy for a broad spectrum of digital mediums like social media, e-books, webinars, e-mail campaigns, and more.
Find your place in the world of digital media
Now that you’ve had a taste of the exciting digital media jobs out there, you may be picturing yourself working in one of these dynamic positions. The field is always growing and evolving, so there’s always a reason to keep learning.
At Bellarmine University, we value real-world experience and applied problem-solving, which is why our Master of Science in Digital Media program was designed with ambitious working professionals like you in mind.