US university launches degree to train future social media influencers

Arizona State University has introduced a new bachelor’s degree focused on content creation, including social media influencing, as universities increasingly adapt their programs to the expanding digital creator economy.

The Bachelor of Arts programme, offered through the university’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, will begin in the 2026-27 academic year. It is designed to prepare students for careers involving digital content production, personal branding, audience engagement and online marketing, Anadolu writes.

The curriculum includes courses on content planning, video and podcast production, social media strategy and audience analytics. One of the courses is titled “How to Become an Influencer,” while other classes focus on on-camera presentation, editing, videography, podcasting and digital audiences.

Students will also complete a content-creation capstone project and professional development courses.

Arizona State describes the program as preparation for the “creator economy” — a growing sector in which individuals and businesses produce and monetise digital content through social media and other online platforms.

Graduates could pursue careers in digital influencing, brand development, content strategy and audience engagement, according to the university.

The programme will be offered at Arizona State’s campus in Phoenix, as well as in Los Angeles and online.

Similarly, Syracuse University is launching a related minor that combines communications, business and entrepreneurship courses, while New York’s St. Bonaventure University already offers a major in content creation.

By Sabina Mammadli