Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication
College Slug
walter-cronkite-school-of-journalism-and-mass-communication
College Code
CCS
Online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media Literacy
Digital media literacy is the ability to access, analyze, create and use digital media. This includes everything from knowing how to find credible information online to being able to communicate using digital media. A few examples of digital media literacy include knowing how to use digital media technology, spotting misinformation, creating digital content and evaluating the social, cultural and historical impact of media.
Digital media literacy goes beyond digital literacy and using digital tools. Instead, digital media literacy is the ability to use digital media to understand and interact with the world around you. Upon graduating from this program, you’ll have the skills needed to interpret digital media and produce digital content in a way that can benefit society.
Why is digital media literacy important?
Digital media is all around us. Nearly every message is created or distributed using digital technology, making it easier than ever to access important information. While this is generally seen as a positive, the rapid spread of misinformation can threaten our democracy. Being able to navigate these digital media challenges is fundamental to being a well-informed member of society.
Digital media literacy is not only important on a personal level, but also in the workplace and community. Understanding how people interact with information is essential in many communications careers. If you want to further develop your digital media skills, you can pair this degree with an online Bachelor of Science in digital audiences or further your education with the Master of Science in digital audience strategy.
Who’s a good candidate for this program?
If you’re interested in content creation, digital humanities, representation in media and education communication or other related fields, this online digital media literacy degree may be a great fit for you. Preparing you to be at the forefront of strategic digital media decisions with a deep understanding of how information and technology affect our daily interactions, you’ll graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to advance your career or pursue master’s, PhD or other professional programs.
One thing that sets this degree apart from other communication degrees is its focus on what happens after the content is made and distributed. You’ll learn how to examine who saw the content, who trusts it and what the audience did with it. This degree aims to help you become a professional communicator and understand how digital content helps or harms your audience and their communities, so you can create content that has a positive impact.
Program Field of Study
Bachelor of Arts
Program Focus
Communication and digital media
Program Name Abbreviation
Digital Media Literacy (BA)
Program Category
Degree Image
Program Description Intro
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Arts in digital media literacy prepares you to become a digital media leader in a world dominated by technology and information. You'll learn how digital media works and explore its impact on our daily lives. This degree also teaches you how to identify misinformation, create digital content and be an effective professional communicator.
Plan Code
CSDMLBA
Program code
UGCS
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary
Program courses focus on digital media literacy, freedom of expression and spotting misinformation. Throughout your core courses and electives, you’ll gain important knowledge in digital media, law and policy, including verification strategies, media creation techniques and relevant ethical principles. You’ll also explore representation in media, privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, artificial intelligence and other pressing issues.
Total Classes
30
Total Credit Hours
120
Program Fee Code
Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication - Undergraduate Programs
Courses Section Title
Digital media literacy courses
Program start date manual
Title
Learn from award-winning experts in the field of journalism and digital media
Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication attracts award-winning communication professionals and world-class media scholars from across the country.
- Award-winning podcast hosts Roddy Nikpour and Abby Zufelt.
- Entrepreneur Eli Chmouni.
- Media literacy expert Dr. Kristy Roschke.
- Pulitzer Prize winner Julia Thompson.
Related Career Image
Accolade title
Study at our award-winning journalism school
Accolade Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication is the leading mass communication school in the U.S. The school, its faculty and its students are regularly recognized for their work.
Accolade item
Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description
journalism school.
Accolades Title
6
Accolades Description
Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty.
Accolades Title
20+
Accolades Description
prestigious student media awards.
Accolades Title
1,255
Accolades Description
online students.
Admission requirement title
How to apply
Interested Programs
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO402
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO402
Program Description Title
What is digital media literacy?
override admission requirement
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Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Content Hub
Slug
digital-media-literacy
Program Generated Code
UGCS-CSDMLBA
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Schedule to talk
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Program Features
Online Bachelor of Science in Digital Audiences
Corporations, advocacy groups, entrepreneurs, government agencies, community groups, news organizations and nonprofits need professionals who are skilled in reaching large online audiences in order to increase sales, engagement, donations, political support and community cohesion — as well as promote products, services and brand awareness.
In this program, you’ll learn how to reach and analyze audiences for various businesses and build your own audience as a:
- Activist.
- Artist.
- Content creator.
- Entrepreneur.
- Media professional.
The skills you’ll develop in this program
Throughout this digital audiences degree, you’ll gain the skills needed to influence audience behavior through digital marketing techniques and tools, such as social media strategy, search engine optimization, search engine marketing and digital analytics. You’ll also learn how to integrate insights from real-time data analysis and social science research to drive audience growth.
With a variety of graduate electives to choose from, including podcasting, project management, photography and more, you’ll build skills in your areas of interest and passions. Additionally, you’ll be able to advance your skill set and create meaningful networking connections with optional internship and study abroad opportunities.
What companies are hiring digital audiences majors?
Organizations in the public and private sectors have a critical and growing need to connect with digital audiences across websites, apps and social media. Digital audience degree holders can compete for roles in marketing and communications in a variety of industries.
There’s no shortage of businesses looking to expand their influence through digital content and engagement. Nonprofit entities, government agencies and advocacy groups alike prioritize effective communication to help them secure donations and promote political engagement or community cohesion. Corporations and entrepreneurs also deploy these tools and techniques to promote sales, improve their advertising and boost other areas of business.
Program Field of Study
Bachelor of Science
Program Focus
Digital Audiences
Program Name Abbreviation
Digital Audiences (BS)
Program Category
Degree Image
Program Description Intro
Online interactions, digital connections and social media are among the leading forces that drive an organization's messaging to engage their audience and inspire targeted groups to take action. Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in digital audiences prepares you to create data-driven strategies that measure, analyze and grow audiences through search, social and content creation. If you’re interested in working in audience engagement, community management, sales, event planning or hospitality, you can launch your career in this program.
Plan Code
CSDIGABS
Program code
UGCS
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary
Throughout this program, you’ll explore ways to measure and analyze the ways in which people interact with digital content and use marketing tools to apply these concepts. This program culminates in a capstone course where you’ll benefit from hands-on experience in developing, testing and executing audience growth strategies for real clients.
Total Classes
41
Total Hours
120
Total Classes Tooltip
Multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Total Credit Hours
120
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Program Fee Code
Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication - Undergraduate Programs
Courses Section Title
Digital audiences and marketing courses
CIP code
9.07
Title
Knowledgeable instructors who excel in the digital media landscape
Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication attracts award-winning communication professionals and world-class media scholars from across the country.
- Award-winning podcast hosts Roddy Nikpour and Abby Zufelt.
- Entrepreneur Eli Chmouni.
- Media literacy expert Dr. Kristy Roschke.
- Pulitzer Prize winner Julia Thompson.
Image
Related Career Image
Accolade title
A proven record for excellence in communications
Accolade Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication is the leading mass communication school in the U.S. The school, its faculty and its students are regularly recognized for their work.
Accolade item
Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description
journalism school.
Accolades Title
6
Accolades Description
Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty.
Accolades Title
20+
Accolades Description
prestigious student media awards.
Accolades Title
1,255
Accolades Description
online students.
Admission requirement title
How to apply
Interested Programs
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO402
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO402
Program Description Title
Prepare for a variety of roles in digital marketing and more
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Content Hub
Slug
digital-audiences-bs
Program Generated Code
UGCS-CSDIGABS
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Schedule to talk
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Subject(s)
Program Features
Online Master of Science in Digital Audience Strategy
Emphasizing in-demand skills and abilities, this online master’s program provides you with the knowledge and experience needed to design and execute large-scale initiatives for attracting, growing and engaging customers. The multidisciplinary program incorporates audience data, search engine optimization (SEO), search engine marketing (SEM), market research and social media campaigns.
In addition to your coursework, you’ll earn professional digital marketing certifications that’ll help you stand out from the competition when applying for roles. These certifications include:
- Google Ads.
- Google Analytics.
- Inbound marketing.
Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to elevate your digital marketing career and pursue opportunities with organizations in the public and private sectors. With your ability to build an audience, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to drive a wide range of impactful outcomes for these organizations. Your efforts can help grow sales, solicit donations, attract political support and more.
What you’ll learn in this digital audience strategy master’s program
Throughout this master’s program, you’ll learn how to measure and analyze consumer trends and behavior to grow audiences through tailored digital content. Coursework combines a diverse array of perspectives — from ethics, law and social science research to multimedia content creation and real-time data analysis — in a holistic digital marketing curriculum. You’ll also build abilities in writing, public speaking, entrepreneurship, leadership, project management and more. The central focus of this program is to learn how to apply these various disciplines as you plan strategies for driving digital audience growth and advancing innovation.
In addition to your core courses, you’ll also have the opportunity to delve deeper into your passion area by choosing a specialized elective track. Areas of specialty include:
- Audience data.
- Content creation.
- Inclusive leadership.
- Media entrepreneurship.
- Media literacy.
Want to know more? We debunk six common myths about pursuing a digital audience strategy master’s program.
Who’s a good candidate for this program?
This program is ideal for professionals looking to advance their marketing or audience engagement careers. It also benefits those looking to develop the skills needed to break into a digital marketing career.
Trained individuals who know how to reach large online audiences are in high-demand. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to work for institutions that seek this kind of expertise, including:
- Advocacy groups and nonprofits.
- Communication agencies.
- Corporations.
- Government agencies.
- News organizations.
Program Field of Study
Master of Science
Program Focus
Digital Audience Strategy
Program Name Abbreviation
Digital Audience Strategy (MS)
Program Category
Degree Image
Program Description Intro
Arizona State University’s Master of Science in digital audience strategy program is designed to support careers in marketing and communications. Through coursework and firsthand experience, you’ll have the opportunity to create powerful digital marketing strategies using social media campaigns, data analytics and audience research.
Plan Code
CSDASMS
Program code
GRCS
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary
In this digital audience strategy master’s, you’ll complete coursework on the fundamentals of measuring, analyzing and engaging digital audiences. You’ll also have the opportunity to choose from five specialized elective tracks based on your passions and interests. You’ll gain practical experience in a hands-on capstone course where you’ll work with real clients to develop, test and execute audience growth strategies. You may also complete an internship for credit.
Total Classes
10
Total Classes Tooltip
Multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Total Credit Hours
30
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Program Fee Code
GP0154
Courses Section Title
Courses in digital marketing and specialized elective tracks
CIP code
9.07
Title
Renowned leaders in communications and the media
Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication attracts award-winning communication professionals and world-class media scholars from across the country.
- Award-winning podcast hosts Roddy Nikpour and Abby Zufelt.
- Entrepreneur Eli Chmouni.
- Media literacy expert Dr. Kristy Roschke.
- Pulitzer Prize winner Julia Thompson.
Image
Related Career Image
Accolade title
A community of excellence for emerging communications leaders
Accolade Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication is the leading mass communication school in the U.S. The school, its faculty and its students are regularly recognized for their work.
Accolade item
Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description
journalism school.
Accolades Title
6
Accolades Description
Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty.
Accolades Title
20+
Accolades Description
prestigious student media awards.
Accolades Title
1,255
Accolades Description
online students.
Admission requirement title
How to apply
Admission requirement description
Applicants to the Master of Science in digital audience strategy program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Admission requirement item
Title
Application requirements
Description
Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program. Alternatively, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 12 units of their post-baccalaureate transcript.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Personal statement.
- Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
Title
Additional admission information
Description
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency. A TOEFL score of at least 100 on the internet-based test is required. Applicants can have these scores automatically submitted to ASU and the Cronkite School by using institution code 4007.
Interested Programs
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Graduate
Program fee code for resident
GP0154
Program fee code for non-resident
GP0154
Program Description Title
Elevate your digital marketing career with an online master’s degree
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/dgsadmissions/Index.jsp?term=2261&session=REG&campus=ONLNE
Content Hub
Slug
digital-audience-strategy-ms
Program Generated Code
GRCS-CSDASMS
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Schedule to talk
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Target
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Program features
Online Graduate Certificate in Digital Audiences
Digital audience strategies amplify your online messaging, increase your brand visibility across platforms, build meaningful connections and grow your following. To succeed in these areas, you’ll learn how to attract, track, assess and engage audiences effectively, as well as develop skills in content strategy and data analysis. Upon completing the certificate, you’ll be prepared to create high-performing digital campaigns and examine performance analysis for optimizations to drive conversions.
Key areas of focus include:
- Social media campaigns (paid and organic)
- Search engine optimization (SEO)
- Search engine marketing (SEM)
Through real-time exercises and simulated environments, you’ll gain experience using industry-standard tools like Meta Insights and Google Analytics to optimize audience engagement and measure campaign performance.
Earn a master’s degree through stackable certificates
This graduate certificate can stand alone or serve as a main certificate toward a Master of Advanced Study. To complete the degree, you’ll stack a second 15-credit graduate certificate. This opportunity allows you to design a program tailored to your career goals and interests.
When admitted, connect with your academic advisor about stackable MAS options.
Who’s a good candidate for this certificate program?
This certificate is designed for professionals in social media strategy, content marketing, journalism, public relations or audience development who want to enhance their digital marketing expertise. Graduates or career changers seeking to pivot into these industries can also develop the skills and knowledge to enter this field.
This program can also support:
- Content creators exploring audience growth strategies.
- Entrepreneurs building their brand online.
- Professionals in various fields looking to increase sales, advertising impact, donations, political support and/or community cohesion.
How this program compares to our master’s in digital audience strategy
This program provides industry-ready skills to deliver impactful digital marketing campaigns. It’s an ideal option for professionals to gain immediate, applicable expertise without committing to a full master’s degree.
If you’re interested in leading organization-wide digital strategy, ASU’s online Master of Science in digital audience strategy offers a more in-depth curriculum including:
- Media law coursework
- Advanced digital media strategy
- Capstone project experience
While the master’s program prepares you for leadership roles within the digital marketing space, the graduate certificate program focuses on the tactical skills to execute digital campaigns.
Program Field of Study
Graduate Certificate
Program Focus
Digital Audience
Program Name Abbreviation
Digital Audiences (Graduate Certificate)
Program Category
Certificate Type
Graduate
Degree Image
Program Description Intro
Master digital audience engagement and learn how to execute successful marketing campaigns with Arizona State University’s online graduate certificate in digital audiences. You’ll gain hands-on experience with industry-leading tools and the tactical skills to create high-impact digital content across websites, search engines and social media.
Plan Code
CSDASGRCT
Program code
GRND
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary
This program provides foundational training in digital analytics, research and audience engagement. You’ll also explore important topics like SEO, social media and more.
Total Classes
5
Total Hours
15
Total Classes Tooltip
Multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Total Credit Hours
15
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Courses Section Title
Digital audiences certificate courses
CIP code
9.07
Title
Learn from digital communications leaders and professionals
Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication attracts award-winning communication professionals and world-class media scholars from across the country.
- Award-winning podcast hosts Roddy Nikpour and Abby Zufelt
- Entrepreneur Eli Chmouni
- Media literacy expert Dr. Kristy Roschke
- Pulitzer Prize winner Julia Thompson
Image
Related Career Image
Accolade title
Study at our award-winning journalism school
Accolade Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication is the leading mass communication school in the U.S. The school, its faculty and its students are regularly recognized for their work.
Accolade item
Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description
journalism school
Accolades Title
6
Accolades Description
Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty
Accolades Title
20+
Accolades Description
prestigious student media awards
Accolades Title
1,255
Accolades Description
online students
Admission requirement title
How to apply
Admission requirement description
Certificate applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Admission requirement item
Title
Application requirements
Description
Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program. Alternatively, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 12 units of their post-baccalaureate transcript.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
Title
Additional admission information
Description
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency. A TOEFL score of at least 100 on the internet-based test is required. Applicants can have these scores automatically submitted to ASU and the Cronkite School by using institution code 4007.
Interested Programs
Manual Cost
true
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Graduate
Program fee code for resident
GP0153
Program fee code for non-resident
GP0153
Program Description Title
Become a leader in digital audience engagement
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/dgsadmissions/Index.jsp?term=2261&session=REG&campus=ONLNE
Content Hub
Slug
digital-audience-strategy-graduate-certificate
Program Generated Code
GRND-CSDASGRCT
Title
Will my certificate say "online"?
Description
No, Arizona State University’s certificates and diplomas don’t specify whether you earn them online or in person. All certificates, diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Schedule to talk
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Program features
Online Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication and Media Studies
Mass communication is the flow of information from a single media source to a large audience. By analyzing content across TV, print, audio and social media, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of media’s role in shaping values, identities and decisions. This foundation prepares you for careers that rely on media literacy and strategic insight, including advocacy, business, marketing, politics and public affairs.
This liberal arts program is composed mostly of electives — giving you the flexibility to tailor your coursework to your interests and transfer credits. Topics include:
- Digital and social media
- Media and pop culture
- Media ethics and law
- Political communication
- Race, gender and representation in media
The flexible structure and elective-rich curriculum make this degree especially transfer-friendly, allowing you to apply previous credits and customize your academic path.
Who’s a good fit for this mass communication degree?
This degree is a strong match for students interested in understanding the impact of media on society. While this program doesn’t focus on journalism, coursework emphasizes media systems, cultural influence and communication theory. You’ll examine the inner workings of media and graduate ready to analyze and interpret the messages that shape how people think, communicate and engage with the world.
Program Field of Study
Bachelor of Arts
Program Focus
Communication and Media Studies
Program Name Abbreviation
Mass Communication and Media Studies (BA)
Program Category
Degree Image
Program Description Intro
Discover how media shapes culture, communication and public perception with Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Arts in mass communication and media studies. From pop culture and politics to social media and storytelling, you’ll explore the power of media messaging and how it influences industries, institutions and everyday life worldwide. You'll graduate ready to thrive in creative and strategic roles where communication drives results.
Plan Code
CSMCMSTBA
Program code
UGCS
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary
Courses will strengthen your ability to analyze, interpret and engage with media across formats and platforms. You’ll explore how messages are created, distributed and received, as well as how they influence public opinion, cultural trends and other aspects of society. Topics include pop culture, digital communication, media ethics and the impact of emerging technologies. This curriculum also adapts to your goals and interests by offering a few core requirements and a wide selection of electives.
Total Classes
41
Total Hours
120
Total Classes Tooltip
Class number may be less for transfer students.
Total Credit Hours
120
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Program Fee Code
Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication - Undergraduate Programs
Courses Section Title
Mass communication and media classes
CIP code
9.01
Title
Learn from experts in journalism and media studies
Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication attracts award-winning communication professionals and world-class media scholars from across the country.
- Award-winning podcast hosts Roddy Nikpour and Abby Zufelt
- Entrepreneur Eli Chmouni
- Media literacy expert Dr. Kristy Roschke
- Pulitzer Prize winner Julia Thompson
Image
Related Career Image
Accolade title
Study at our award-winning journalism school
Accolade Description
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication is the leading mass communication school in the U.S. The school, its faculty and its students are regularly recognized for their work.
Accolade item
Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description
journalism school
Accolades Title
6
Accolades Description
Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty
Accolades Title
20+
Accolades Description
prestigious student media awards
Accolades Title
1,255
Accolades Description
online students
Admission requirement title
How to apply
Interested Programs
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO402
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO402
Program Description Title
A flexible, wide-ranging curriculum that prepares for a variety of careers
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Content Hub
Slug
bachelor-arts-mass-communication-and-media-studies
Program Generated Code
UGCS-CSMCMSTBA
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Schedule to talk
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Target
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Program highlights
Subject(s)
Program Features