UTSA to grow Texas’ creative arts workforce with new degree programs

AUGUST 27, 2024 — The phrase “content creation” is taking form in multiple ways at UTSA. This fall, the university is preparing UTSA students for the state’s growing creative workforce with inspiring new degree programs. These programs aim to drive the university’s efforts to recruit the state’s most creatively talented students.

“Everyone needs content, and everyone needs somebody to make the eye-catching things that go on their social media feeds or support their marketing and advertising efforts,” Paul Ardoin, UTSA director of Film and Media Studies, said. “This is really something that applies to any modern industry.”

The B.A. in Film and Media is among the many new degree programs in creative arts that are generating immediate interest at UTSA. In addition to developing skills in screenwriting and production, Ardoin’s students get valuable networking opportunities with leaders of the film and media industry, including WarnerMedia LLC and Netflix.

“Our vibrant urban setting provides many opportunities for our students to gain hands-on experience through performances, internships and employment opportunities.”

COLFA is contributing to the growing creative workforce in Texas.

“Faculty, staff and administrators from across the university have helped support and develop experiential and professional opportunities for our students,” he said.

These opportunities exist thanks to the efforts of the University Career Center and Mario Vela, UTSA assistant vice provost of career-engaged learning. Vela’s team works strategically to foster recruiting relationships with the best employers in the country. He says the UTSA talent is rich and employers are starting to notice nationwide.

“We know that employers are seeking marketable skills recognized by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, such as critical thinking, professionalism and teamwork,” Vela said. “Our students develop these essential career development skills at UTSA.”

According to the State of Texas, nearly 900,000 Texans are employed in the creative arts, a workforce that the State intends to grow. To meet this need, UTSA is intentionally aligning its academic programs with Texas’ economic needs.

Among those creating thousands of jobs and bringing in billions of dollars in earnings is the music industry.

UTSA’s Commercial and Digital Music program debuts this fall. This innovative degree program presents an opportunity for students to develop their skills in podcasting, electric music composition and music video production.

Tracy Cowden, director of the UTSA School of Music, says embracing these new genres and platforms sets up students to succeed.

“Our vibrant urban setting provides many opportunities for our students to gain hands-on experience through performances, internships and employment opportunities. And we work continuously to create relationships with industry professionals that help our students thrive,” Cowden said.

A group of COLFA student work on a  project in the studio.

Beyond the established industries of film and music, UTSA is continuing to innovate by providing support for students in the emerging video game industry and the valuable skill of digital influence.

Samuel Ang, assistant professor of instruction in the UTSA Department of Computer Science, oversees UTSA’s new Game Design program. This new concentration focuses on the essential programming concepts and gives students the freedom to innovate. 

“I structure my classes so that students have an opportunity to put together a portfolio of projects during their time here,” Ang said. “I believe this approach will best prepare students for a fast growing and highly competitive industry.”

And, no industry has taken off quite like digital media. As smartphones and mobile technology are relied upon more, many are finding a rewarding career by turning their passion for digital content creation into a profitable business.

That’s why UTSA is offering a new degree in Digital Media Influence online and in the classroom this fall. It’s tailored for students who are interested in creating content to become effective media influencers.

“This program is where you create specific content and test whether or not it's effective with your audience,” said Chad Mahood, associate professor in the UTSA Department of Communication. “This is a skill that is valued across all industries and can lead to a variety of potential careers.”

Together, these four new programs contribute to meeting the needs of a growing creative arts workforce in Texas and showcase UTSA’s commitment to academic innovation.

“UTSA recognizes that the arts are crucial to our lived experience and that the creative economy is a thriving and wonderful environment for innovation and entrepreneurship,” Cowden said.

— John Elizondo