Irish University Launches Course on Becoming an Influencer, Highlighting the Evolution from Social Media Trend to Career Path

In a world where influencers are shaping trends and earning big, the path to social media stardom might feel out of reach for some. But what if there was a way to learn the ropes of this growing industry? South East Technological University in Carlow, Ireland, has launched a groundbreaking four-year degree in content creation and social media. This new program aims to equip students with skills in video production, data analytics, and personal branding, empowering them to turn their online presence into a profitable career

A novel course is being offered by an Irish university to teach Gen-Z teenagers how to turn their social media content and online presence into sources of income.

"Influencing is something that's catching fire," course director Irene McCormick told AFP at South East Technological University (SETU) in Carlow, an hour's drive southwest from the capital Dublin.

According to McCormick, the concept originated from a summer crash course called "Digital Hustle" given by TikTokers, which drew 350 applications for 30 spots.

"It got amazing traction, we could see the appetite for more, so we broadened it to degree level," said McCormick, a former television producer and director.

The first class of 15 students enrolled in a four-year bachelor's degree program in "Content Creation and Social Media" has been accredited. The social media-focused course is intended for students who are already working in or immersed in the digital world.

During a break between courses, students on the modern campus talked, snapped pictures, and browsed through their social media feeds on cellphones.

"My friends tell me I talk a lot, so I thought I might as well make money out of it and try this course," 22-year-old Harry Odife told AFP during a role-playing exercise in the campus TV studio.

According to McCormick, the majority of students are currently working in or engaged in the digital world and wish to broaden their knowledge and toolkit.

"You can try to learn yourself at home, but being empowered with practice and theory about how to connect with target demographics online is going to make a big difference to your career," she stated.

University students are investigating how a course may help them become influencers in order to increase their knowledge and proficiency in the digital sphere. The course's main topic is person branding, which is the practice of exploiting a celebrity's reputation to support, advertise, or spark interest in goods and companies—often in exchange for money. According to surveys, the majority of Gen-Z adolescents would think about working as a professional streamer, YouTuber, or vlogger. The goal of the course is to assist students in turning their passions and interests—such as fashion, social justice, entertainment, beauty, and sports—into a real business.

Modules on business, data analytics, podcasting, creative video and narrative psychology, and celebrity studies are all included in the course. Work placements and instruction on cameras and microphones are examples of the course's practical components. Given that 70% of marketers think influencers will play a major role in marketing in the future, the number of job opportunities for influencer talent is growing rapidly.

As the influence economy continues to grow, this program from South East Technological University offers a unique opportunity for young creators to turn their passions into careers. With modules ranging from business strategy to content production, students will gain hands-on experience and insights into the industry’s best practices. For Gen-Z students looking to make their mark online, this new degree could be the first step toward a rewarding career in the digital sphere.