Launch Your Thriving Career or Business With the Content Creation Occupational Endorsement

By Tabitha Crocker

In today's digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, from sharing stories and connecting with friends to discovering new products and services. Social media platforms have essentially transformed into virtual marketplaces packed with lucrative business opportunities. As the demand for engaging content continues to surge, individuals with a knack for content creation and digital marketing can leverage their skills to build thriving careers in a variety of different digital fields.

The UAF Interior Alaska Campus trains aspiring creators through its innovative Content Creation Occupational Endorsement (O.E.). This O.E. is a practical one-year curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and experience necessary to monetize social media platforms. From video storytelling and communications, to social media management, this program offers budding content creators a hands-on approach to acquire career-specific skills. Additionally, most of our courses can be applied to two-year or four-year degrees, meaning it often doesn’t require additional time to graduate with a bonus O.E. that makes you stand out from the crowd. 

Photo by Leif Van Cise

In our era of visual communication, the ability to captivate audiences through video storytelling is invaluable. According to Forbes, viewers remember 95% of a message when delivered by video, but only 10% by text. This highlights how powerful online video is in engaging an audience and staying top-of-mind. Students will delve into the art of capturing compelling visuals and mastering the art of narrative techniques. From cinematography to editing, students in FLPA F280: Video Storytelling - Content Creation will learn the full potential of simple tools and software to create engaging video content.

At the same time, written word will always remain a powerful medium for connecting with audiences. In our Content Creation program, students will refine their writing skills to develop a unique online voice. In COM F121X: Intro to Interpersonal Communication for Content Creation, students learn the fundamental principles of effective communication and explore the complexities of communication in today's society.

With billions of active users worldwide, social media platforms have become essential marketing channels for businesses. In ABUS F189: The Business of Gaming and Content Creation, students learn the basics of creating and maintaining a content production-based business online. This class covers technical requirements, equipment, community management, marketing and branding, and the business fundamentals to monetize and scale original content. It also touches on the trends shaping the evolving landscape of streaming, content creation, and running a business online. It’s important to note, this course goes far beyond just content creation for gaming, but can be applied to any niche you may want to explore. Students will discover how to leverage social media platforms to build a brand and attract a dedicated following. Through strategies such as sponsored content, brand partnerships, and affiliate marketing, individuals can monetize their online presence and transform their passion into a viable source of income.

This Content Creation Occupational Endorsement offers numerous benefits for aspiring content creators and digital entrepreneurs to refine their creative abilities and develop a deep understanding of the digital landscape. Graduates of the program have expanded career prospects because they are equipped with sought-after skills that open doors to a range of opportunities in social media management and online entrepreneurship.

There are only five courses at the core of the Content Creation Occupational Endorsement to set you up for success in the online space in any niche. The required courses are:

BA 151: Introduction to Business - Content Creation

ABUS 189: Business of Gaming and Content Creation

FPLA 280: Video Storytelling - Content Creation

COMM 121: Introduction to Interpersonal Communication for Content Creation

CITS 203: Information Technology Support Fundamentals

Four of the five courses will be offered this spring 2024 and, in some cases, you may qualify for substitutions.

Businesses across industries now recognize the immense value of social media expertise. Graduates of the Content Creation Occupational Endorsement program can capitalize on this growing demand by pursuing careers in social media management. As social media managers, individuals can lead marketing efforts, shape brand identities, and engage with consumers directly, opening up exciting and rewarding career opportunities. While passion and creativity are important, turning your social media presence into a profitable venture requires strategic thinking and effective monetization techniques.

The Content Creation Occupational Endorsement program ensures students are prepared in order to maximize their impact on various social media platforms. Whether you're seeking to maximize your creative potential or build a rewarding career, enrolling in the Content Creation Occupational Endorsement program could be your path forward.

 Let your advisor know if you’re interested in enrolling now and if you have any questions please contact:

Sarah Thomas smthomas14@alaska.edu, (907) 474-6983

Robin Brooks rrbrooks@alaska.edu, (907) 474-6770

Sources:

Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/yec/2017/07/13/how-to-incorporate-video-into-your-social-media-strategy/