The fact you’re reading this is likely because of the photos or other visual elements on this page, not the words. Humans are visual creatures, and whether or not a picture is truly worth a thousand words, few people today will read even ten words unless a visual element first grabs their attention.
With six out of 10 Americans identifying social media as a primary source of news, the power of visual communication is clearer than ever before. Posts with a compelling image have 94 percent more interaction than plain text, a fact today’s communicators—from marketers to pastors and journalists—can’t afford to ignore.
Union is answering this 21st century challenge with a new minor and associate’s degree in video and photographic arts.
“We believe this new program will help our communication, marketing and graphic arts students be even more competitive in a visually driven world,” said Bruce Forbes, chair of the Division of Fine Arts.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a significant growth rate for photographers and videographers—as much as 18 percent for for film and video editors. “However, as the cost of photographic and video equipment falls, competition in these fields continues to heat up,” said Forbes. “We believe multitalented communicators who have related skills like photography, graphic design, video editing and writing will be much better positioned to succeed.”
The two-year associate’s degree combines photography and photo editing courses with script writing, videography and basic graphic arts classes, but Forbes believes the program is at its best as a minor combined with a four-year degree in a related field such as graphic design or communication.
“We all walk around with the ability to take photos and videos in our pockets,” he said. “In order to stand out, today’s communicators have to be better trained than ever. This program will train students to create high-quality photos and video while using affordable and available equipment. It’s a necessity for today’s creative professionals.”
To learn more about Union’s new associate’s degree and minor in photo and video imaging, visit ucollege.edu/photo-and-video-imaging.