Even with the explosive growth of new media technologies like blogs, wikis, webinars, and podcasting, finding specific new media degree programs can be difficult. Few colleges and universities offer degrees like Bachelor of Science in New Media or similar titles. However, there are several degree programs that focus on the interactive environment that new media has become. For example, there are programs like Bachelor of Science in Communication with a concentration in New Media and other similar choices for students who want to further explore this career path.
In addition to BS degrees in communications, there are also certificate, diploma, and other new media degree programs available. For example, students may choose to study marketing with a focus or concentration in new media, or even public relations with a similar concentration. Each of these degree programs focuses on the various uses of new media, such as business blogging, using wikis for interoffice communications and thus as a competitive advantage, and other options. While new media is primarily still the dissemination of new and impartial information, many information consumers, both public and private, also use new media to raise awareness, encourage engagement with others, as well as other, less news-related purposes.
In today's digital age, the lines between information for information's sake and information to influence public opinions or buying habits have never been more blurred. However, while the use of new media may be confusing, new media degree programs primarily focus on the neutral, impartial intention of these information channels. Students are expected to understand how the public uses information, what motivates them to get their information in a certain format, and how to use the technologies that disseminate that information. Coursework might include mass communications with new media, new media technology, principles of public relations, and other such courses.
While new media degree programs seek to educate students on the technology behind new media, how to design new media initiatives or programs, and mass communications, this is really only the beginning. Today's information channels are no longer just television, film, radio, and print. The masses have innumerable blogs, wikis, and social networks from which to draw their information. These sources are not always reliable, but are a considerable part of new media. One of the most valuable skills new media students can learn is how to build, attract, and maintain the trust of their audience in the face of so many different sources.
Unfortunately, this is one of the drawbacks of new media. Anyone, anywhere can post information online with little resources or references. Add to this fact that many companies and organizations sponsor bloggers, wiki owners, and other similar content authors, calling their objectivity into question. As such, it is even more important for graduates of new media degree programs to understand the value of being a trust agent. When individuals place their trust in your information, you owe it to them to ensure that information is accurate, impartial, and informative, the basic foundation on which new media was born.