Arizona State University has launched a bachelor’s degree in content creation through its Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
The university says students will learn to produce videos and podcasts, build audiences and use analytics to understand what works. Its official course description promises to teach both the “art and science” of digital influence.
Four years to discover that the algorithm hates you personally.
YOUR DEGREE RING INCLUDES
The programme reportedly covers:
* Video and podcast production
* Personal branding
* Studio presentation
* Audience analytics
* Social-media strategy
* Maintaining eye contact with a phone while pretending breakfast is fascinating
There are legitimate skills buried inside all this. Editing, production, marketing, analytics and presenting can lead to proper careers—even if the student never becomes famous for shouting into a tiny microphone outside a nightclub.
But as the Associated Press reports, critics are questioning whether an expensive university degree is the best route into an industry largely powered by personality, persistence, luck and filming yourself until strangers become emotionally invested in your skincare routine.
THE OUTOUT VERDICT
Universities facing a tightening student market have apparently realised that screen addiction becomes education when accompanied by a prospectus.
Graduates could leave with useful production skills, a professional portfolio, substantial debt and 14 followers—including their mum, two tutors and an account offering discounted sunglasses.
The degree will be real.
The career might be real.
The ring light will definitely be real.
And if it all goes wrong, at least the unemployment announcement will be beautifully lit.
