A Sign of the Times: There’s Now a College Course on How to Be a Social Media Influencer

For anyone looking to be the next IG baddie, a college in Ohio now offers a full influencer course.

Owens Community College in Toledo, Ohio, has introduced the Media Influencer Certificate. The two-semester lesson can be taken independently or combined with another degree. To successfully complete the program, students must take basic coding, business, visual storytelling, and public speaking classes.

The program director Jen Hazel says students studying Broadcast Media Technology, Commercial Art Technology, Music Business Technology, and Entrepreneurship will likely show interest in the curriculum.

While a full influencer certificate may be the first of its kind, many colleges have begun introducing social media coursework into the classroom to appeal to their incoming first-year students. Georgetown University offers a Social Media Certificate, while many other schools across the country offer classes focusing on social media management, social computing, and more.

With increased monetization and sponsorship opportunities, a career as an influencer has become a serious aspiration for many. Two influencers spoke exclusively to Insider and revealed that they make six-figure salaries as full-time social media influencers. With Instagram now paying even the average user for Reels, everyone is looking to cash in on this booming way to make money. 

Those interested in the Media Influencer Certificate are encouraged to visit https://www.owens.edu for more information.