New course to meet rise in digital media demand

Imran Mojib, Special Correspondent

Amidst an increased demand for qualified graduates in the media sector, the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) will launch a new Bachelor of Communication and Media Degree in September. The degree will help form careers for Game Designers, Graphic Designers, Digital Animators, Social Media Content producers and others.

Today, Dubai is home to more than 4,000 Arab, regional and international media organisations. This month, the Arab Information Ministers Council named Dubai as the Capital of Arab Media for 2020.

UOWD President Professor Mohamed Salem said that with digital media leading the way against the backdrop of declining trends in more traditional print media, the university is launching the new degree to cater to the growing demand for skilled working professionals in the digital media and communications sector.

He said, “As the world shifts away from more traditional media offerings towards a new digital landscape, it is important that we introduce new and innovative programmes that support the needs of the region. This new degree will build on Dubai’s ambition to becoming an internationally recognised hub of media excellence and will attract international students to further their higher education ambitions in Dubai.”

Dr Feras Hamza, Head of the School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Health at UOWD, said that this innovative new programme will have four key areas of focus – Social Media, Graphic Design, Video Production and Marketing & Communication. This programme is being designed for students who are digitally proficient and are interested in the rapidly developing world of digital media and marketing. The programme will be led by Associate Professor Dr. William F. Smith II. He said that this new programme is being offered with a unique, flexible and innovative curriculum.

He said, “With a renewed focus of digital media adoption being available at our fingertips, the need for accredited degrees focusing on new innovative methodologies in delivering digital media is more important than ever. I am looking forward to welcoming the new batch of students in September.”

After graduating from the Bachelor of Communication and Media Degree, students will be able to work in such creative fields such as Game Design, Digital Animation, Visual Communications, Mobile Applications, Journalism, Graphic Design, Events, Social Media, Live Streaming, Brand Strategy and many more.