MiraCosta College to Offer Certificate in Social Media

MiraCosta College:

We hear you.

That’s the message from MiraCosta College to the North County business community, which has been clamoring for students who are experts in the nuances of social media. MiraCosta College this fall will become the latest in a growing number of higher education systems across the country offering a Certificate of Achievement in Social Media.

“Companies need people who have expertise in social media,” said Business Department Chairman Tom Severance. “This a cutting edge, employable skill in an area that is only going to grow in the future.”

MiraCosta College was prompted into action after pleas from the local business community for interns who are experts in social media. After hearing from the community, college officials produced a plan laying out a list of courses. They then returned to area businesses for additional feedback, studied the local labor force and employment data, and brought the proposal back to various committees for input.

After earning approval for its plan from the Academic Senate, MiraCosta College sought and secured the OK from the state Chancellor’s Office. In all, the process took about two years.

“Students who complete the program and earn a certificate will understand how analytics work and they will understand how businesses use social media as a tool to attract and retain customers,” Isachsen said.

“The program combines business skills in marketing, advertising, and communication with technical skills in social media and e-commerce,” states description of the certificate. “Students gain a working knowledge of techniques to increase and optimize business-oriented web traffic in various social media venues, including Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter and other emerging social media and e-commerce platforms.”

Four classes are required, including Business 132 (Marketing), Business 138 (Advertising and Promotion), Computer Studies and Internet Technology 146 (E-Commerce and Web Presence), and Computer Studies and Internet Technology 155 (Social Media for Business). Six elective units also must be taken in classes ranging from Google Apps and Web Design Fundamentals to Business Communication and Customer Service.

The aim is to prepare students who can earn solid middle class and upper middle class incomes in a growing field.

“We try to build classes that meet the demand of the business community, and social media skills are hot right now,” Isachsen said.  “We’re expecting this to be a very popular program.”

Severance agreed. “These are skills that people will be able to use to get good jobs that are in demand. “

Enroll now for fall semester. Classes begin August 19. Register online at www.miracosta.edu or call760.795.6620.