Degree Overview: Associate of Applied Science in Digital Media Communications
Majors Overview July 13, 2013The digital media communications field uses different methods to produce a broad range of media, such as graphic design, art, and entertainment. A digital media communications associate degree program will prepare students for entry-level positions in the industry.
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Digital Media Communications Degree Program
In these associate’s degree programs, students are taught about communications delivered in a digital format, including social networking, digital animation, multimedia applications, web design and graphic design. These programs often focus on the Internet and applications thereof. Students are taught how to create interactive media, scripting and application interfaces. Once they have completed the program, students will be prepared for enrollment in a four-year bachelor’s degree program. Generally, require applicants to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
Typically, program coursework will include marketing and business, along with digital media communications topics. Students may participate in a practicum that will give them practical, hands-on experience in the workplace. The program course topics may include the following:
•Photography
•Marketing
•Interactive digital media
•Instructional design
•Introduction to digital media
•Web server administration
•Digital imaging
•Webpage design
•Video production
•Computer animation
Career Options
Typically, digital media communications associate degree program graduates qualified to work in entry-level positions at television and radio stations, film studios, and art studios. The discipline offers a wide variety of career options, including cartoonist, director, producer, 3D modeler, set designer, and animator. Other career options available to individuals include the following:
•Multimedia artist
•Video or film editor
•Photographer
•Graphics designer
Continuing Education Information
Graduates from an associate’s degree program in digital media communications should consider immediately enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program and then furthering their education by pursuing a master and doctoral degree program. A Ph.D. program will benefit those who seek research or teaching positions at higher education institutions. Post-master’s certificate programs are also available to individuals who seek a specialization in the field; coursework in these programs are devised to impart advanced skills to students, in specific areas.
