To keep pace with the ever-changing communications industry, Oglethorpe recently introduced a Certificate in Digital Media available to all degree-seeking students.

More and more employers are seeking professionals who are proficient in digital platforms and able to communicate effectively in today’s digital landscape. With this certificate, students in any major can demonstrate to employers they have the necessary skills for digital storytelling. 

“Our goal was to create a liberal-arts based certificate, providing students both the theoretical foundation and the necessary skills to be successful in utilizing and understanding the implications of the digital landscape,” said  Dr. Kate Keib, associate professor of Communication Studies and chair of Division I.

To earn the certificate, students must complete the following four courses: Digital Storytelling, Social Media Strategy and Analytics, Web Design, and Social Media Theories and Practice.

In addition to taking these classes, students must present a capstone project in Social Media Theories and Practice. The project includes conducting a needs analysis for an actual client and recommending best practices based on a social media landscape assessment students research on their own. The capstone course allows students to gain real-world experience and apply concepts they’ve learned from all four classes. 

While the courses are communication studies focused, any Oglethorpe student can take advantage of this opportunity.

“The reason we created the certificate was so that we could signal to the public that the students have these credentials. These classes together give them skills in the digital arena that make them competitive professionally,” said Dr. Keib. 

If students have already taken some of the courses but not all, they can still meet with their advisor and bundle the classes to complete the certificate. To learn more about the courses and certificate, visit the University Bulletin.