Digital Storytelling

Two students in a television control room

Where technology and people converge – it’s time to tell your story.

Your future employer is looking for someone who can create a story and adapt it to multiple platforms for a diverse range of audiences. Whether it’s the next top-rated podcast, a riveting documentary or a digital campaign for change, you’ll discover media and techniques that prepare you for a career or to launch a new idea as an entrepreneur. Immerse yourself in hands-on learning – in labs, studios, control rooms, in front of or behind the camera.

The digital storytelling major includes foundational courses in performance, media literacy, acting for the camera, brand storytelling, social media strategy and podcasting, offered by the Greenlee School and the Department of Music and Theatre. In addition, students are encouraged to seek an area of expertise in one of the focal areas below; through an additional undergraduate major, minor or certificate; or with their own selection of courses. For a description of suggested electives within the focal areas, consult this list: Digital Storytelling Focal Area Electives.

Technology icon

Data and immersive and emerging technologies

Virtual reality and immersive media, launching a media brand, data storytelling and others.

Production and performance in documentary and commercial work

Animation, acting for camera, screenwriting and others

icon representing sopcial impact

Community impact and social change

Grant-writing, leadership and crisis communication and others

Experiences

Team up with other students in our production and learning spaces like our content creation suite, multi-camera studio, social media listening lab or one of our streaming or one-button studios. Master equipment like lighting, sound, projection – or even puppets – in spectacular Fisher Theater, where sound and stage come alive.

Minor

The core courses of media literacy, personal branding, digital storytelling and performance, and applied storytelling will be open to all Iowa State students. These pair well with many careers, preparing students to craft a compelling online persona, capitalize on social media as a means of self/brand promotion and use story to connect with audiences. A minor in digital storytelling will help you expand the impact of any degree.