NAIROBI, Kenya- In the age of social media, “influencer” has become not just a buzzword, but a legitimate career choice.
Now, South East Technological University (SETU) in Carlow, Ireland, is offering a pioneering four-year degree program dedicated to teaching the next generation of influencers how to turn their online presence into profitable businesses.
The first cohort of 15 students recently began classes, diving deep into content creation and social media strategies to master the art of influencing.
The new course, called “Content Creation and Social Media,” is the brainchild of Irene McCormick, a former TV producer and director.
Inspired by the overwhelming response to her summer crash course “Digital Hustle,” which attracted over 350 applicants for just 30 spots, McCormick realized the growing demand for formal influencer education.
“Influencing is something that’s catching fire,” McCormick said in a statement, highlighting the rise of social media stars like TikTokers and YouTubers who transform their followings into lucrative careers.
The degree was developed over two years to meet the needs of young people eager to cash in on their digital personas.
McCormick emphasized that while it’s possible to learn the ropes at home, structured training in understanding target demographics and branding can significantly enhance one’s career prospects.
The term “influencer” might have only been added to the dictionary in 2019, but it has quickly become a cornerstone of digital marketing.
Major influencers like MrBeast and KSI have proven that the right personal brand can be worth millions, whether through sponsored posts, ads, or partnerships.
The SETU course teaches students how to develop that kind of brand, focusing on content creation, storytelling, and data analytics.
Modules in the program include video production, storytelling psychology, and even celebrity studies.
Although influencer content might seem frivolous on the surface, McCormick stressed that the business behind it is anything but.
“So many Gen Z young people buy a lot of bling, and that bling is being sold through influencers,” McCormick said.
With 70pc of marketers now recognizing influencers as the future of marketing, the job opportunities in the field are multiplying — from content creation to behind-the-scenes work like editing and strategy development.
And it’s not just companies jumping on the influencer bandwagon. Even governments are using influencers to reach younger demographics, making this career path more diverse and serious than ever.
This first-of-its-kind degree could be a game changer for those looking to capitalize on the digital space, providing the tools and knowledge needed to turn likes, follows, and shares into lasting business success.
