The Lowdown on Digital Production Programs

by Sarah Clark
Career Training Directory Columnist

Digital production degrees prepare students for careers in advertising and communications. But digital multimedia gigs are different from your typical communications job. They require both technical and creative skills, and an ability to manage a multifaceted project from start to finish.

Digital production programs are designed to give you just the kind of sweeping knowledge and experience you need for multimedia projects. You’ll learn everything from how to write an effective script to how to assemble a budget and staff for a large-scale production.

Your Introduction to Multimedia Studies

This list of skills may sound daunting at first. But you’ll be introduced to the field of multimedia production in stages. You’ll likely begin with a 100-level course that will introduce you to the medium of digital production. You can also expect to learn about the applications of multimedia products, including those used for educational and marketing purposes.

Once you have a foundation, the program will move onto more advanced coursework. These courses will typically fall into the following three categories:

Technical

During production school you’ll learn how to use compression and streaming technologies, which provide a way to view audio and video over the Internet or CD and DVD-ROM. Other technical skills you may pick up include working with digital cameras, audio technology, and lighting equipment.

Creative

Of course the more artistic side of digital production will also account for a large part of your degree program. You’ll take classes on script writing and research. You may also learn how to design sets and establish a mood through color, music, and lighting.

Business

Since so much multimedia production is created for marketing purposes, your program will likely also include a business component. You’ll learn about marketing strategies, and how a digital production fits into a company’s larger communications strategy. You’ll also learn how to manage a production, from finding the right producer and casting actors to managing client relationships and maintaining a production schedule.

A multimedia program will give you the perspective and technical skills to succeed in the exciting, fast-paced field of multimedia production.

About the Author

Sarah Clark is a freelance writer who specializes in postsecondary education and career development.