An Irish university has introduced a pioneering bachelor’s degree in “Content Creation and Social Media” to equip aspiring influencers with the skills to turn their online presence into revenue streams. South East Technological University (SETU) in Carlow, southwest of Dublin, welcomed its first batch of 15 students last month.
The four-year program, directed by former TV producer Irene McCormick, builds on the success of a short course called “Digital Hustle,” which attracted hundreds of applicants. The degree combines practical training in video creation, podcasting, and social media analytics with theoretical studies on personal branding, storytelling psychology, and celebrity culture.
“Influencing is a serious business,” said McCormick in an AFP report, highlighting its growing role in marketing and government messaging. Students like 18-year-old hairdresser Favour Ehuchie hope to use the course to expand their online reach and turn hobbies into viable careers.
Modules also prepare students for work behind the scenes, emphasizing that the influencer industry requires more than just posting short videos. “Creating content involves planning, editing, and strategizing—it’s not as simple as it looks,” said student Marta Hughes Bravo, who aims to leverage her equestrian interests on social media.
