What Can I Do With a Major In Entertainment and Media Studies?
UGA Specific Information for Entertainment and Media Studies
Entertainment and Media Studies (EMST) delves into the power of storytelling across film, television, and digital platforms. This field explores how media influences culture, shapes perceptions, and adapts to technological advancements. From the intricacies of screenwriting and production to the nuances of media criticism and audience engagement, EMST prepares students for diverse careers in content creation, entertainment strategy, and media analysis.
Why Choose Entertainment & Media Studies?
An EMST degree provides students with a robust skillset, including:
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Film & Television Production Skills: Hands-on learning in cinematography, editing, and directing.
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Media Analysis & Criticism: Understanding the societal impact of entertainment.
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Screenwriting & Story Development: Crafting compelling narratives for various media.
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Industry Trends & Audience Engagement: Exploring evolving media consumption and technologies.
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Digital Media & Streaming Strategy: Navigating the dynamic entertainment landscape.
Career Paths for EMST Graduates
Graduates are well-prepared for dynamic roles in:
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Film & Television Production: Directing, screenwriting, editing, and cinematography.
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Entertainment Journalism & Media Criticism: Analyzing and reporting on pop culture trends.
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Streaming & Digital Content Creation: Producing content for platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Netflix.
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Social Media & Audience Strategy: Managing engagement for entertainment brands.
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Public Relations & Marketing for Media: Shaping messaging for films, TV shows, and events.
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Game & Interactive Media Development: Exploring storytelling through emerging platforms.
Class of 2024 Career Outcomes for Entertainment and Media Studies*
** Includes Self-Employed
Campus Resources
1. Academic & Advising Resources:
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Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication Advising: Guidance on course selection, major requirements, and career planning for EMST students.
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UGA Office of Student Success and Achievement: Tutoring and study strategies to support coursework in film, television, and digital media.
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UGA Bulletin & Course Catalog: Listings of EMST-related classes, including screenwriting, production, and media studies.
2. Student Organizations & Extracurriculars:
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The Industry and UGA Film Club: A student organization for networking, film screenings, and discussions about the entertainment industry.
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Cine: Local independent cinema partnered with UGA for screenings, workshops, and media-related events.
3. Career Development & Experiential Learning:
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UGA Career Center: Career coaching, resume reviews, and workshops geared toward students pursuing media and entertainment careers.
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UGA Study Abroad & Global Engagement: International programs featuring media production, global cinema, and entertainment studies.
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Experiential Learning & Industry Competitions: Includes Student Film Festivals & Competitions (e.g., Campus MovieFest, UGA Film Festival), National and International Festivals (e.g., Sundance, Cannes, SXSW), and virtual internships/freelance projects in film, TV, and digital media.
4. Communication & Networking Opportunities:
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Alumni & Industry Speaker Events: Panels and guest lectures featuring professionals in film, television, and digital media.
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UGA Mentor Program: Connects EMST students with alumni working in entertainment and media.
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UGA Writing & Presentation Coaching: Support for scriptwriting, pitching, and media-related communication skills.
5. Campus Media & Digital Platforms:
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Grady College Digital Media Lab: Access to filmmaking, editing, and digital storytelling tools.
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UGA Libraries Film & Media Resources: Archives, streaming services, and research databases for entertainment and media studies.
Additional UGA Career Center Recommendations
Common Entry-Level Roles: Production Assistant, Assistant Editor, Junior Screenwriter, Social Media Coordinator, Content Creator, Audience Engagement Analyst, Media Researcher
Example Career Progression: Production Assistant > Associate Producer > Producer or Director;
Example Career Progression: Junior Writer > Staff Writer > Showrunner
Example Career Progression: Social Media Coordinator > Digital Strategy Manager
Success in the entertainment and media industry requires a blend of creative vision and technical expertise. Employers seek graduates who demonstrate:
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Storytelling & Scriptwriting
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Video Editing & Production
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Media Analysis & Research
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Digital Content Strategy
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Collaboration & Communication
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Adaptability to New Technologies (e.g., AI, VR, streaming platforms)
The Future of Entertainment & Media
The entertainment landscape is continuously evolving with advancements in AI-driven content creation, immersive storytelling, and digital media distribution. Professionals in this field must be adaptable, innovative, and aware of global trends to thrive in a competitive industry. Key areas to watch include AI-driven content creation and editing tools, interactive and immersive storytelling (VR/AR), and changing patterns in streaming and audience engagement.
Portfolio or Reel Requirement: A portfolio or demo reel is essential for most creative roles. Students should begin building theirs with class projects, internships, and student films.
Typical Starting Salaries: Entry-level roles in media and entertainment typically range from $35,000–$50,000, depending on location and specialization.
Additional Study Options: Many EMST graduates pursue advanced degrees in Media Studies/Film Production, Screenwriting, or Communications.
Representation in Media
The entertainment industry values inclusive storytelling. Explore these resources:
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Women in Film & Television: Advocacy and support for women in media.
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Black Filmmakers Foundation: Community and resources for Black creatives.
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UGA Office of Inclusive Excellence: Campus support and programming.
Additional Career Research Resources
1. Industry Career Outlook & Employment Trends:
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ONET Online: Provides insights into media-related careers, required skills, and employment projections.
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Offers salary data and job growth trends for film, TV, digital media, and entertainment sectors.
2. Entertainment & Media Industry Insights:
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Variety: Covers entertainment industry news, trends, and emerging talent.
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Hollywood Reporter: Provides insights into television, film, and media production, including news and career features.
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Deadline: Covers breaking news in the entertainment business, from industry shifts to production updates.
3. Digital & Social Media Tools for Entertainment:
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YouTube Creator Academy: Offers training for content creators on video production and monetization.
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Google Digital Garage: Provides free courses on digital marketing, branding, and audience analysis.
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Meta Blueprint: Offers guides on content strategy for platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Threads.
4. Film, Television, and Screenwriting Research Resources:
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American Film Institute (AFI): Provides insights into film history and best practices in directing, screenwriting, and cinematography.
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ScriptLab: Offers guides on writing, storytelling, and breaking into the screenwriting world.
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IndieWire: Provides news and industry developments in independent filmmaking and digital content.
5. Data & Analytics for Media Professionals:
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Statista: Offers data on media consumption and entertainment industry growth.
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Think with Google: Provides research on audience engagement and digital marketing insights.
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Nielsen: Offers analytics on streaming, television ratings, and consumer media habits.
Employment Websites
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UGA Handshake: Internship and job postings specifically for UGA students, including roles in media, film, and entertainment.
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LinkedIn Jobs: A strong platform for finding media-related jobs, networking, and researching entertainment companies.
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Glassdoor: Job postings, salary insights, and company reviews for media and entertainment careers.
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EntertainmentCareers: A leading resource for internships and jobs in film, television, and digital media.
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Mandy Network: Job listings for film, TV production, and post-production roles.
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Backstage: Casting calls, film production jobs, and media-related employment opportunities.
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MediaBistro: Job listings and resources focused on digital media, content creation, and entertainment marketing.
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ProductionHub: A job board for production professionals looking for freelance and full-time work.
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The Writers Guild of America Job Board: Entry-level screenwriting and creative writing opportunities. This specific URL is for WGA West. See WGA East for additional opportunities.
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Upwork: A marketplace for freelance professionals specializing in video editing, content creation, and digital storytelling.
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Fiverr: A platform for creative freelancers offering services in video production, screenwriting, and multimedia content.
Professional Associations/Resources
1. National & International Media Associations:
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National Association of Broadcasters (NAB): A professional organization for those interested in television, radio, and digital broadcasting.
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The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Emmys): A resource for networking and learning about careers in television production.
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International Documentary Association (IDA): A global network for filmmakers and documentary professionals.
2. Student & Emerging Professional Resources:
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The Writers Guild of America (WGA): A professional association for screenwriters, offering mentorship and career guidance. See also WGA East.
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American Cinema Editors (ACE): A professional group dedicated to film and media editing.
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Women in Film Los Angeles: Advocacy and support for women in media.
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Student Film Festivals & Competitions: Opportunities to showcase student films, gain industry recognition, and build a portfolio.
3. Educational & Industry Publications:
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Variety: A leading entertainment industry publication covering media trends, box office results, and career insights.
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Hollywood Reporter: Industry news, interviews, and career advice for media professionals.
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Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media: Academic research on television, radio, and digital media trends.
4. Networking & Professional Development:
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Film Festivals & Industry Events: Opportunities like Sundance Film Festival, Cannes Film Festival, and SXSW for students looking to network.
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Industry Conferences & Workshops: Events like NAB Show, Comic-Con panels, and Writers Guild workshops.
Employers/Position Titles Reported by Class of 2024 Entertainment and Media Studies Majors
The information below represents employers and position titles from the Class of 2024 Career Outcomes Survey. To view historical Career Outcomes for this major, click here and select "Historical Data" from the navigation menu.
Employer | Position Title(s) |
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20North Marketing | Videographer | AdPipe | Coordinator | Astensuf | Account Services | Bistro To Go Catering | Shift Leader | CAA | Mailroom Program Associate | Catapult Acting Studios | Production Intern | Crunch Fitness | Member Services Representative | Disney College Program | College Program Cast Member | Georgia Bulldogs Sports Marketing | Video Producer | Ideas United | Assistant Project Coordinator | Ketchum | Assistant Account Executive | KNC Homes | Financial Assistant | Marvar | Customer Service Representative | Minnesota Public Radio | Video Intern | NewsNation | Broadcast Newswriter | NewsNation | Broadcast Newswriter | Reeves Young | Videographer & Editor | Self-employed | Freelance Video Editing and Videography | Self-employed | Freelancer | Storybuilder | Lead Editor | The Preiss Company | Marketing and Leasing Manager | The Walt Disney Company | Finance and Accounting Intern | United FA | Social Media Coordinator | United Talent Agency | Assistant - UTA Creators | United Talent Agency | Trainee | University of Georgia | Assistant Director of Football Creative | University of Georgia | Administrative Associate | University of Georgia | Creative Services | University of Georgia | Senior Coordinator of Facilities and Operations | Warner Bros. Discovery | DEI Marketing & Communications Coordinator | Warner Bros. Discovery | Freelance Production Assistant |
Graduate/Professional Schools Attended by Class of 2024 Entertainment and Media Studies Majors
The information below represents graduate/professional schools and programs reported through the Class of 2024 Career Outcomes Survey. To view historical Career Outcomes for this major, click here and select "Historical Data" from the navigation menu.
Graduate School | Program(s) |
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Airborne Airline Academy | Flight Instructor, License | Loyola Marymount University | Law, JD | Medical Sales College | Orthopedic Device Sales, License | University of Georgia | Film, Television, and Digital Media, MFA | University of Georgia | Emerging Media, MA |