Arizona State University has introduced a new bachelor’s degree in content creation, a move that has been met with criticism from some quarters. The program, offered through the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, includes specialized electives on podcasting, studio production, and on-camera presence.

Debate Over Value

The introduction of this major has sparked a debate about the value of a college degree in launching a social media career. While some argue that it is a legitimate profession, others question the need for a specialized degree in this field. Brooke Erin Duffy, a communication professor at Cornell University, notes that content creation is a time-consuming and labor-intensive job that often doesn’t pay well, at least in the beginning.

Despite the criticism, other universities have also introduced content creation courses or minors. Syracuse University, Quinnipiac University, and Colorado State University offer minors, while St. Bonaventure University has announced a content creation major. Phoenix-based creator Aiesha Beasley believes that such programs can be valuable, even for those who don’t dream of becoming viral sensations, as they can help build a personal brand and network.

Transferable Skills

The courses in these programs can teach transferable skills in fields such as communications and marketing. Content creator and actor Sammy Cristerna, who graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in sociology and political science, believes that the content creation program would have been useful in learning how to negotiate brand deals and maximize monetization opportunities.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.