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:

  • Film & Television Production Skills: Hands-on learning in cinematography, editing, and directing.

  • Media Analysis & Criticism: Understanding the societal impact of entertainment.

  • Screenwriting & Story Development: Crafting compelling narratives for various media.

  • Industry Trends & Audience Engagement: Exploring evolving media consumption and technologies.

  • Digital Media & Streaming Strategy: Navigating the dynamic entertainment landscape.

 

Career Paths for EMST Graduates

Graduates are well-prepared for dynamic roles in:

  • Film & Television Production: Directing, screenwriting, editing, and cinematography.

  • Entertainment Journalism & Media Criticism: Analyzing and reporting on pop culture trends.

  • Streaming & Digital Content Creation: Producing content for platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Netflix.

  • Social Media & Audience Strategy: Managing engagement for entertainment brands.

  • Public Relations & Marketing for Media: Shaping messaging for films, TV shows, and events.

  • 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:

 

2. Student Organizations & Extracurriculars:

  • The Industry and UGA Film Club: A student organization for networking, film screenings, and discussions about the entertainment industry.

  • Cine: Local independent cinema partnered with UGA for screenings, workshops, and media-related events.

 

3. Career Development & Experiential Learning:

  • UGA Career Center: Career coaching, resume reviews, and workshops geared toward students pursuing media and entertainment careers.

  • UGA Study Abroad & Global Engagement: International programs featuring media production, global cinema, and entertainment studies.

  • 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:

 

5. Campus Media & Digital Platforms:


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:

  • Storytelling & Scriptwriting

  • Video Editing & Production

  • Media Analysis & Research

  • Digital Content Strategy

  • Collaboration & Communication

  • 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:


Additional Career Research Resources

1. Industry Career Outlook & Employment Trends:

  • ONET Online: Provides insights into media-related careers, required skills, and employment projections.

  • 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:

  • Variety: Covers entertainment industry news, trends, and emerging talent.

  • Hollywood Reporter: Provides insights into television, film, and media production, including news and career features.

  • Deadline: Covers breaking news in the entertainment business, from industry shifts to production updates.

 

3. Digital & Social Media Tools for Entertainment:

  • YouTube Creator Academy: Offers training for content creators on video production and monetization.

  • Google Digital Garage: Provides free courses on digital marketing, branding, and audience analysis.

  • Meta Blueprint: Offers guides on content strategy for platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Threads.

 

4. Film, Television, and Screenwriting Research Resources:

  • American Film Institute (AFI): Provides insights into film history and best practices in directing, screenwriting, and cinematography.

  • ScriptLab: Offers guides on writing, storytelling, and breaking into the screenwriting world.

  • IndieWire: Provides news and industry developments in independent filmmaking and digital content.

 

5. Data & Analytics for Media Professionals:

  • Statista: Offers data on media consumption and entertainment industry growth.

  • Think with Google: Provides research on audience engagement and digital marketing insights.

  • Nielsen: Offers analytics on streaming, television ratings, and consumer media habits.


Employment Websites

  • UGA Handshake: Internship and job postings specifically for UGA students, including roles in media, film, and entertainment.

  • LinkedIn Jobs: A strong platform for finding media-related jobs, networking, and researching entertainment companies.

  • Glassdoor: Job postings, salary insights, and company reviews for media and entertainment careers.

  • EntertainmentCareers: A leading resource for internships and jobs in film, television, and digital media.

  • Mandy Network: Job listings for film, TV production, and post-production roles.

  • Backstage: Casting calls, film production jobs, and media-related employment opportunities.

  • MediaBistro: Job listings and resources focused on digital media, content creation, and entertainment marketing.

  • ProductionHub: A job board for production professionals looking for freelance and full-time work.

  • 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.

  • Upwork: A marketplace for freelance professionals specializing in video editing, content creation, and digital storytelling.

  • Fiverr: A platform for creative freelancers offering services in video production, screenwriting, and multimedia content.


Professional Associations/Resources

1. National & International Media Associations:

 

2. Student & Emerging Professional Resources:

 

3. Educational & Industry Publications:

 

4. Networking & Professional Development:


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)
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
* denotes no responses received.

*Source: Areas above marked with an Asterisk (*) have been created utilizing data taken from the UGA Career Outcomes Survey. The "Employers Hiring...," "Job Titles of...," "Career Outcomes for...," and "Graduate/Professional Schools and Programs..." information listed above represent UGA Class of 2024 Graduates. The lists are not exhaustive and therefore do not represent all potential career options. Click here for more detailed Career Outcomes information regarding this major.

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)
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
* denotes no responses received.