Certified influencer? Arizona State University unveils a degree in content creation
Does anyone want to be an influencer nowadays?
Image by Cybernews
- Arizona State University launched a bachelor’s degree in content creation for the growing creator economy.
- ASU says graduates can work in content strategy, influencing, brand development, social media, and audience engagement.
- The program drew mockery, but supporters say online authority can help professionals gain visibility and career opportunities.
Key Takeaways by nexos.ai, reviewed by Cybernews staff.
Graduates of the content creation program are promised to thrive “in the rapidly evolving creator economy.”
If a tripod, a smartphone, and a bit of charisma are not enough to become an influencer, the Arizona State University (ASU) now offers the Bachelor of Arts program dedicated to content creation.
The program’s coursework focuses on content planning, video and podcast production, global perspectives, and personal branding, according to the press release.
In addition, the students will gain hands-on experience through the Los Angeles Content Studio, brand content projects, media internships, and content creation trips abroad.
“Upon graduation, you are equipped for entrepreneurial and professional roles in content strategy, digital influencing, brand development, social media management, and audience engagement across industries,” the ASU states.
The creator economy market was valued at $252.3 billion in 2025, and is expected to grow to $1,345.5 billion by 2033.
Stay updated with our latest stories and follow us on social media
Be the first to discover new stories, ideas, and updates from our team.
Content creators encompass a wide range of online personalities – from lifestyle influencers and podcasters to academics who educate social media users about their niche research topics.
The average salary for a content creator is $62,201 per year or $30 per hour, according to Glassdoor data. Earnings of big-name influencers, however, can be in the millions.
For example, MrBeast's media empire is estimated to generate $600 million in annual revenue.
However, despite the prospect of a lucrative career, fewer young people see content creation as a desirable profession.
Only 5% of young adults under 30 said they wanted to be digital creators or influencers, according to a 2026 Yahoo/YouGov survey.
This is a sharp decrease from 2023, when 57% of Gen Zers said they wanted to be social media influencers, according to a Morning Consult survey.
While the program’s announcement attracted mockery on social media, some stood in ASU's defense.
Vivian Tu, a former Wall Street trader known as “Your Rich BFF” who dedicated her Instagram profile to educating people about finance, noted that professionals such as doctors and professors are now bringing their expertise to attentive audiences on social media.
Tu wrote, “A strong online presence can serve as a resume of authority in your respective field. So not just brand deals and affiliate partnerships, but also earlier promos/raises, visibility with leadership, speaking apps at conferences.”