Digital media is a blend of technology and content. Simply put, it refers to any information shared through a digital device or medium. Individuals with careers in digital media may choose to design, develop, and enhance content for creative agencies and create graphics and animation for game developers. They can create marketing campaigns or conduct market research.

The rapid growth of technology and the increasing importance of online presence have enabled businesses and organizations to seek individuals with the right skills to effectively use digital media. Wondering if this profession is worth exploring? In this article, we will discuss six rewarding careers you can pursue with a digital media degree.

1. Market Research Analyst

If you have a knack for data and research, then a market research analyst can be the right career path for you. Market research analysts design, create, and execute research plans and methodologies to address specific pain points for a business. They gather information from multiple sources and devise strategies to determine effective data collection methods. These methods include interviews, surveys, focus groups, or panel sampling.

You need a BA in digital media or communication, or a relevant field, if you’re an aspiring research analyst. An online digital media degree is a good choice if you’re already working and interested in switching jobs. 

The curriculum focuses on multimedia production, media analysis, law and ethics, and the art of persuasion. Integrated marketing research, visual communication, and web and graphic design courses equip students with the skills to excel as market research analysts.

Graduates may work for ad agencies, digital media houses, or creative agencies. They can try freelancing as well. As a freelancer, a market research analyst will have exposure to multiple industries in a short span of time. And it can lead to early career advancements or breakthroughs.

Graphic Designer

Are you an artist who aspires to be the next Rob Janoff, the designer who created the iconic Apple logo in 1977? Then a career in digital media is definitely meant for you. Graphic designers use software to create various design elements such as images, animations, and more. 

Usually, we think of a graphic designer as someone who makes logos, brochures, etc. But in the digital age, this career path is much more than that. Graphic designers can choose a variety of focus areas and build up their career. 

2. Branding and Identity Designer

With the advent of social media and increasing competition between businesses, the need for a dedicated graphic designer who works on a brand’s aesthetics is pretty much inevitable. As the name suggests, a branding and identity designer is in charge of creating and establishing visual identities for a specific business, based on the company’s guidelines, values, target audience, and market positioning. In a nutshell, they’re responsible for conveying the right brand message through each graphic design.

3. Web Designer

If you want to develop and enhance visually appealing and user-friendly websites, this may be the right focus area for you. Web designers ensure a smooth, responsive layout, correct information architecture, and user experience.

When a user visits an organization’s website, the design, visuals, placements, and visual hierarchy create the first impression. A user-centric and well-designed website will instantly grab users’ attention and convey a sense of professionalism and credibility. So, a web designer essentially helps a business grab that attention and make an excellent first impression.

4. UI/UX Designer

User interface/user experience (UI/UX) focuses on extensive research, wireframes, and design iterations. This ensures aesthetically pleasing, user-friendly, and responsive digital products or websites.

A UI/UX designer empathizes with the user, explains paint points, and improves on prototypes and designs. Applying user-centric design, accessibility, and equity-focused designing helps them work on brand image and improve its reach to the online audience. The right design creates a huge difference, increases visibility, and contributes towards brand recognition.

5. Motion Graphic Designer

Motion graphic designers create animated graphics and visual effects, including videos, presentations, and digital platforms. They combine design skills with animation techniques to convey the brand message.

To start a career as a graphic designer, you may opt for a Bachelor of Science program in graphic design and media, a Bachelor of Arts in digital media and communication, or a relevant field. The curriculum focuses on package design and graphics, motion graphics, drawing, design fundamentals, and design methods and research. The course extensively focuses on typography (with typography I, II, and III), animation, digital illustration and modeling, animation, and more.

6. Animator

Using animation software, animators sketch and bring characters, objects, and scenes to life. They’re experts in animation principles such as timing, spacing, weight, anticipation, and follow-through.

Timing refers to the speed of animation or action, whereas spacing refers to the intervals between frames displaying an object’s location. Weight depicts the effects of gravity, e.g., reflecting a character’s pose as weight shifts from foot to foot. Anticipation refers to a subtle signal that a new action will happen. These principles govern the actions and behaviors of characters and objects in an animation while bringing them to life and creating believable actions.

To start a career as an animator, a bachelor of arts in digital media design with a concentration in animation or new media art may be a good option. Courses include design and interactivity, motion graphics, visual effects, modeling for game art, and video game rendering.

As an animator, you can opt to work for a software company with an animation product or a company creating enhancements for animation software. If you’re passionate about video games, animator career path may be the right fit for you. Explore your options and choose the right career and industry for yourself.

Conclusion

Digital media offers a wide range of career opportunities for interested individuals. These individuals work with graphics, videos, interactive media, and more. Multiple options are available — from digital marketing to content creation, graphic designing to animation.

Some digital media career paths overlap, but specific requirements change based on the role’s requirements. For example, graphic designing has become an umbrella term because of underlying focus areas. Graphic designers can choose from multiple career paths, from animators to digital and web designers. They can choose a career path they’re passionate about. For them, it will be financially rewarding and a satisfying career option.

To start a career in digital media, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field will familiarize individuals with the evolving industry. With a wide range of majors available, a graduate can evaluate his or her interests and opt for one.