Social Media Degree Programs Have Sparked Debate

As universities introduce social media degrees, public opinion remains split on the legitimacy of an influencer career.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Internships

Bold vector editorial illustration of an academic mortarboard cap resting on a tripod, symbolizing the intersection of university education and digital media careers. — As universities like Arizona State launch social media degrees, a new survey reveals deep public division over whether influencing represents a legitimate career path. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe that social media influencing is a legitimate career path for students?

Academic institutions have begun offering degree programs in social media influencing, including options at Arizona State University. A new survey of 2,000 U.S. adults reveals that Americans remain divided on whether these programs and influencing itself constitute a legitimate professional path.

Why it matters

The rise of academic specialization in content creation reflects a shifting labor market where digital presence is increasingly commodified. However, generational gaps regarding the validity of such careers highlight a persistent friction between traditional job expectations and modern digital economies.

A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults found that 43% would support a child majoring in social media, while 33% would not. Additionally, 22% of adults would personally consider enrolling in such a degree program.

The players

Arizona State University

This public research university has incorporated specific degree programs focused on social media influencing into its academic curriculum.

The details

Universities are increasingly incorporating content creation into formal coursework as demand for digital marketing skills grows. Despite this institutional acceptance, 51% of survey respondents stated they would prefer a steady 9-to-5 job over gaining one million social media followers.

The findings and reports on degree programs were published as of October 1, 2026.

Market Landscape

This trend highlights the ongoing tension between traditional corporate employment structures and the decentralized creator economy. It positions modern universities as active participants in the competition for relevance within a rapidly shifting digital labor market.

Students evaluating these degrees must weigh the academic cost against the highly volatile nature of the influencer industry. For those entering the workforce, the disparity between institutional certification and traditional employer perception could impact hiring prospects.

The takeaway

While universities are adapting to include digital media arts, the workforce at large remains skeptical of influencing as a primary career. Prospective students should prioritize programs that offer versatile, transferable skills beyond just follower growth metrics.