Creative Arts, Design + Media

This Career Community is intended for students interested in careers in the creative arts (including writing, publishing, graphic design), performing arts, and media arts (including broadcasting and entertainment). Explore the Creative Arts, Design + Media Career Community.

This Career Community helps you connect your major to an industry, attend industry events and access targeted internships and job postings, allowing our employer partners to easily recruit students who have the skills their company is seeking.

Below are resources by major. Also make sure to scroll further to view jobs/internship highlights, events, resources, career videos, news and more.

When you are ready to engage with the McCafferty Career Center, click on your Career Advisor’s information to the right and make an appointment!

These are just a few examples, and there are many other entry-level positions available in the industry, depending on your interests and career goals.

Art Gallery Assistant: Assist with the day-to-day operations of an art gallery, including setting up exhibits, handling customer inquiries, and managing sales.

Art Studio Assistant: Support an artist or art collective with studio management tasks such as preparing materials, organizing space, and assisting with artwork production.

Graphic Design Assistant: Help create visual content for print and digital media, working under the guidance of senior designers on projects like logos, brochures, and social media graphics.

Museum Technician: Assist with the preparation and installation of exhibits, care for collections, and support museum staff with various tasks related to exhibitions and conservation.

Art Handler: Handle and transport artwork, ensuring its safety and proper installation in galleries, museums, or private collections.

Illustrator: Create drawings and illustrations for books, magazines, advertisements, or digital platforms, often collaborating with authors, editors, or marketing teams.

Photographer’s Assistant: Assist professional photographers with photo shoots, equipment setup, and post-production tasks like editing and retouching images.

Art Therapy Assistant: Support licensed art therapists in conducting therapy sessions, preparing materials, and documenting client progress.

Recreational Therapy Aide: Assist recreational therapists in planning and conducting therapeutic activities, which may include arts and crafts, for patients in hospitals, nursing homes, or community centers.

Mental Health Technician: Work in mental health facilities, providing support to patients and assisting with therapeutic activities, including art therapy sessions under supervision.

Activity Coordinator: Plan and implement recreational and therapeutic activities, including arts and crafts, for various populations in settings like senior centers, rehabilitation facilities, or community organizations.

Program Assistant in Non-Profit: Assist in the development and execution of art therapy programs offered by non-profit organizations, supporting administrative tasks and direct client engagement.

Children’s Program Assistant: Support programs for children that include art therapy components, helping to plan and facilitate activities that promote emotional and mental well-being.

Behavioral Health Aide: Work alongside mental health professionals to support patients with behavioral challenges, incorporating creative arts as part of therapeutic interventions.

Once you get some experience the roles below are positions you could grow into:

Art Therapist: Use the creative process of making art to improve clients’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Conduct assessments, plan therapy sessions, and document progress.

Music Therapist: Utilize music-based interventions to address clients’ physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. Develop treatment plans, conduct therapy sessions, and evaluate outcomes.

Creative Director: Lead the creative vision for a project or organization, overseeing the development of visual and artistic content. Manage creative teams, ensure brand consistency, and drive innovation.

Program Manager: Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs within an organization. Coordinate resources, manage budgets, and ensure programs meet their goals and objectives.

Expressive Therapist: Employ various expressive arts (e.g., art, music, dance) to help clients explore and express their emotions. Develop therapeutic interventions tailored to individual needs.

Creative Arts Therapist: Integrate multiple forms of creative expression, such as visual arts, music, dance, and drama, to help clients address psychological and emotional challenges.

Activity Therapist: Plan and implement therapeutic recreational activities to improve clients’ mental and physical health. Use activities like arts and crafts, games, and exercise to promote well-being.

Visual Arts Teacher: Educate students in the visual arts, teaching techniques in drawing, painting, sculpture, and other media. Develop lesson plans, evaluate student work, and foster creative expression.

Illustrator: Create visual images to accompany text in books, magazines, advertisements, and digital media. Work with authors, editors, and designers to bring concepts to life visually.

Art Director: Oversee the visual aspects of a project, such as advertising campaigns, films, or publications. Guide the creative team, make design decisions, and ensure the project’s visual integrity.

Elementary Art Teacher: Teach art to elementary school students, introducing them to basic artistic techniques and concepts. Develop age-appropriate projects, assess student progress, and encourage creativity.

Art/Music Coordinator: Manage and coordinate art and music programs within an educational or community setting. Oversee curriculum development, organize events, and support teachers and staff.

Additional Organizations to Consider:

These are just a few examples, and there are many other entry-level positions available in the industry, depending on your interests and career goals.

Junior Graphic Designer: Assist senior designers in creating visual content for print and digital media. Tasks include designing layouts, logos, brochures, and advertisements while adhering to brand guidelines.

Production Artist: Focus on the technical aspects of design, ensuring that final designs are ready for production. Tasks include formatting, resizing, and adjusting designs according to specifications.

Marketing Assistant: Support the marketing team with graphic design needs, such as creating social media graphics, email templates, and promotional materials. Collaborate on marketing campaigns and strategies.

Web Designer: Design and create visual elements for websites, ensuring an appealing and user-friendly interface. Work with web developers to implement designs and optimize user experience.

Branding Assistant: Help develop and maintain brand identity by creating consistent visual content across various platforms. Design business cards, letterheads, and other branded materials.

Social Media Content Creator: Design engaging visuals for social media platforms, including images, infographics, and short videos. Work closely with the social media team to align content with marketing strategies.

Editorial Designer: Assist in designing layouts for magazines, newspapers, and other publications. Ensure that text and images are arranged in an aesthetically pleasing and readable manner.

Package Designer: Create packaging designs for products, considering both aesthetics and functionality. Work with product developers to ensure packaging meets brand standards and consumer needs.

Freelance Graphic Designer: Take on various design projects for different clients on a freelance basis. Responsibilities include client communication, project management, and delivering high-quality designs on time.

Visual Merchandiser Assistant: Support the visual merchandising team by creating in-store displays and signage. Ensure that the visual presentation aligns with brand aesthetics and marketing goals.

Illustration Assistant: Assist senior illustrators in creating visual elements for various projects, such as books, magazines, and advertisements. Responsibilities include sketching, coloring, and finalizing illustrations.

Once you get some experience the roles below are positions you could grow into:

Graphic Designer: Create visual concepts to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. Design layouts for print and digital media, including advertisements, brochures, and websites.

Digital Content Associate: Develop and manage digital content for websites, social media, and other digital platforms. Ensure content aligns with brand guidelines and engage audiences effectively.

Digital Outreach Manager: Plan and execute digital outreach strategies to increase brand awareness and engagement. Utilize social media, email marketing, and online campaigns to reach target audiences.

Arts, Media + Marketing Coordinator: Coordinate marketing efforts across arts and media projects. Develop promotional materials, manage social media accounts, and assist in event planning and execution.

Marketing Specialist: Develop and implement marketing campaigns to promote products or services. Conduct market research, analyze trends, and create compelling marketing materials.

Advertising Sales Executive: Sell advertising space to businesses and individuals. Develop client relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure advertisements meet clients’ needs and specifications.

Marketing Assistant: Support the marketing team with administrative tasks, market research, and the creation of marketing materials. Assist in coordinating marketing campaigns and events.

Brand Strategist: Develop and implement strategies to build and strengthen a brand’s identity. Conduct market research, define brand positioning, and create cohesive branding guidelines.

SEO Strategist: Optimize website content to improve search engine rankings. Conduct keyword research, analyze performance metrics, and implement on-page and off-page SEO tactics.

UI/UX Designer: Design user interfaces and enhance user experiences for websites and applications. Conduct user research, create wireframes and prototypes, and ensure intuitive and engaging design.

Social Media Manager: Manage social media accounts by creating and scheduling content, engaging with followers, and analyzing performance metrics. Develop strategies to grow and engage the audience.

AI Conversation Designer: Description: Design conversational interfaces for AI applications, such as chatbots and virtual assistants. Develop dialogue flows, write scripts, and ensure a natural and engaging user experience.

Junior Graphic Designer: Assist senior designers in creating visual content for various projects. Tasks include designing layouts, logos, and marketing materials while learning and growing in design skills.

Freelance Designer: Work independently on design projects for various clients. Responsibilities include client communication, project management, and delivering high-quality design solutions.

Web Designer: Create visually appealing and user-friendly website designs. Work with clients and developers to implement designs, ensuring a cohesive look and feel across all web pages.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other entry-level positions available in the industry, depending on your interests and career goals.

Content Writer/Editor: Crafting articles, blog posts, social media content, and other written materials for companies or publications. Many companies, especially those with an online presence, hire content writers to create blog posts, articles, website content, and marketing materials. Editing positions are also available in publishing houses, marketing agencies, and other organizations.

Copywriter: Creating persuasive copy for advertisements, marketing materials, websites, and product descriptions.

Editorial Assistant: Supporting editors by proofreading, fact-checking, and formatting manuscripts for publication.

Digital Marketing Assistant: Assisting with digital marketing efforts such as email marketing, SEO optimization, and online advertising campaigns.

Media Planner: Assisting in the planning and execution of advertising campaigns across various media channels, including print, broadcast, and digital.

Content Marketing Assistant: Helping to create and distribute content to attract and engage target audiences, including ebooks, whitepapers, and infographics.

Copywriter: Copywriters specialize in crafting persuasive written content for advertising, marketing campaigns, product descriptions, and more. Agencies, in-house marketing teams, and media companies often seek out skilled copywriters.

Technical Writer: Technical writers create user guides, manuals, and other documentation for products and services. They need to convey complex information in a clear and understandable manner, making them valuable assets in various industries such as software, engineering, and healthcare.

Social Media Manager/Coordinator: With the rise of social media marketing, companies need individuals who can create engaging content, manage social media platforms, and interact with audiences. An English graduate’s strong writing and communication skills are highly beneficial in this role.

Public Relations Assistant: PR assistants help create press releases, manage media relations, and organize events. Strong writing skills are essential for crafting effective communications and maintaining a positive public image for the organization.

Editorial Assistant: Editorial assistants support editors in publishing houses, magazines, newspapers, and online publications. They may assist with tasks such as proofreading, fact-checking, research, and manuscript evaluation.

Teacher/Tutor: English graduates may pursue opportunities in education, such as teaching at the elementary, middle, or high school level. Additionally, they can work as tutors to help students improve their writing and language skills.

Administrative Assistant: Administrative roles often involve writing emails, creating documents, and communicating with clients or colleagues. English graduates’ strong writing abilities and attention to detail make them well-suited for these positions.

Freelance Writer/Editor: Freelancing allows English graduates to work independently and take on projects based on their interests and expertise. They can write articles, blogs, website content, or provide editing services on a freelance basis.

Production Assistant (PA): Supports various departments on set by handling tasks like setting up equipment, managing schedules, assisting crew members, and ensuring smooth daily operations.

Assistant Camera (AC): Works under the camera department, helping set up and maintain camera equipment, managing lenses, and assisting the cinematographer during shoots.

Post-Production Coordinator: Assists in organizing and managing post-production activities, including editing schedules, coordinating with editors, and handling media assets.

Junior Script Supervisor: Helps maintain continuity during filming by tracking script changes, noting discrepancies, and ensuring consistency in scenes.

Photography Assistant: Assists photographers during shoots by setting up lighting and equipment, managing props, and handling logistical tasks to ensure a smooth photoshoot.

Photo Editor (Junior): Helps in selecting, editing, and retouching photographs for publications, websites, or clients using software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.

Digital Imaging Technician (DIT) Assistant: Supports the DIT by managing digital assets, ensuring data integrity, and facilitating the workflow between production and post-production teams.

Gallery Assistant: Assists in the operations of an art gallery, including handling photographic exhibits, managing inventory, and interacting with visitors.

Social Media Photographer: Creates and curates’ photographic content specifically for social media platforms to engage audiences and promote brands or products.

Marketing Assistant: Supports marketing and PR efforts by conducting market research, organizing promotional materials, assisting with campaigns, and tracking marketing performance.

Public Relations Assistant: Supports PR teams by drafting press releases, monitoring media coverage, assisting with event planning, and handling administrative tasks. In a crisis-focused environment, you may assist in managing communication strategies during high-pressure situations.

Communications Coordinator: Manages internal and external communications, including writing newsletters, updating websites, and ensuring consistent messaging. During a crisis, this role involves coordinating rapid responses and maintaining clear communication channels.

Media Relations Coordinator: Builds and maintains relationships with media outlets, pitches stories, and handles media inquiries. In crisis scenarios, this role focuses on managing media narratives and disseminating accurate information promptly.

Crisis Communications Assistant: Supports the crisis communications team by monitoring media, drafting statements, and assisting in the development of crisis management plans. This role is foundational for understanding the dynamics of crisis response.

  • AEJMC: Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication 
  • American Communication Association 
  • CIOS: Communication Institute for Online Scholarship  
  • International Communication Association 
  • National Communication Association 
  • North Atlantic Chapter of the Insights Association

  • Occupational Outlook Handbook
  • ONET
  • Career One Stop – Occupational information that will increase your understanding of the job market
  • Careers Out There – Career videos with professionals from all types of jobs talking about what they do
  • CityTownInfo.com – Read real life career stories from professionals in various fields

These are just a few examples, and there are many other entry-level positions available in the industry, depending on your interests and career goals.

Editorial Assistant: Provide support to editors in publishing houses, magazines, or newspapers. Tasks may include proofreading, fact-checking, manuscript evaluation, and administrative duties.

Content Writer: Create written content for websites, blogs, social media, and marketing materials. Research topics, write engaging articles, and adhere to brand guidelines and SEO best practices.

Copywriter: Write promotional and advertising copy for print, digital, and broadcast media. Develop creative concepts, craft compelling headlines and taglines, and tailor messaging to target audiences.

Proofreader: Review written content for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and consistency errors. Ensure accuracy and adherence to style guides before publication.

Technical Writer: Create user manuals, instructional guides, and technical documentation for software, hardware, or other products. Translate complex technical concepts into clear and concise language.

Publishing Assistant: Assist in various aspects of book publishing, such as manuscript editing, production coordination, and marketing support. Work closely with authors, agents, and production teams.

Content Editor: Edit and revise written content for clarity, coherence, and style. Provide feedback to writers, fact-check information, and ensure content meets editorial standards.

Social Media Coordinator: Manage social media accounts for organizations, businesses, or publications. Create and schedule content, engage with followers, and analyze performance metrics.

Marketing Assistant (in Publishing): Support marketing efforts for books or publications. Assist in developing marketing campaigns, organizing events, and coordinating promotional materials.

Editorial Intern: Gain hands-on experience in the publishing industry by assisting with editorial tasks. Responsibilities may include manuscript evaluation, writing summaries, and researching market trends.

Journalist/Reporter (Entry-Level): Cover news stories, events, and features for newspapers, magazines, or online publications. Conduct interviews, research topics, and write articles for publication.

Assistant Copy Editor: Assist copy editors in proofreading and editing written content for accuracy, grammar, and style. Learn editorial processes and develop skills in copyediting and fact-checking.

Once you get some experience the roles below are positions you could grow into:

English Language and Literacy Teacher, Post-Secondary: Teach English language and literacy courses at a college or university level. Develop curriculum, conduct lectures, assess student performance, and support academic research.

Middle School English Teacher: Description: Educate middle school students in English language arts. Develop lesson plans, teach literature and writing, and assess student progress to enhance reading and writing skills.

High School English Teacher: Teach high school students English literature, composition, and critical thinking. Prepare lesson plans, evaluate student work, and prepare students for college-level English.

ESL Instructor: Teach English as a Second Language to non-native speakers. Develop lessons that focus on speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills to improve students’ English proficiency.

Journalist/Reporter: Research, write, and report news stories for various media outlets. Conduct interviews, gather information, and produce accurate and engaging articles or broadcasts.

Author: Write books, articles, or other written content for publication. Develop original ideas, create compelling narratives, and work with editors to refine and publish work.

Publisher: Oversee the production and distribution of books, magazines, or digital content. Manage editorial processes, coordinate with authors, and develop marketing strategies for publications.

Amherst

  • Small Batch Books

Ashfield

  • Paris Press

Beverly

Boston

Brighton

Cambridge

Concord

Easthampton

Holliston

Northampton

North Adams

Somerville

Other

These are just a few examples, and there are many other entry-level positions available in the industry, depending on your interests and career goals.

Production Assistant: Assist in the production of theater performances, films, or television shows. Tasks may include set construction, prop management, costume organization, and backstage support.

Stagehand: Provide backstage support during theater productions. Responsibilities include moving scenery, operating stage equipment, and ensuring smooth transitions between scenes.

Theater Technician: Assist with technical aspects of theater productions, such as lighting, sound, and audiovisual effects. Set up and operate equipment, troubleshoot technical issues, and support rehearsals and performances.

Box Office Assistant: Provide customer service and administrative support at the theater box office. Sell tickets, process reservations, and assist patrons with inquiries and ticketing issues.

Theater Usher: Welcome patrons, assist with seating, and provide information about the theater and upcoming productions. Monitor audience behavior during performances and ensure a positive experience for attendees.

Drama Teacher’s Assistant: Support drama teachers in educational settings, such as schools or community centers. Assist with lesson planning, rehearsals, and classroom management during drama classes or productions.

Theater Marketing Assistant: Assist in promoting theater productions through marketing and promotional activities. Tasks may include designing promotional materials, managing social media accounts, and coordinating promotional events.

Costume Assistant: Support costume designers and wardrobe staff in creating and maintaining costumes for theater productions. Assist with costume fittings, alterations, and inventory management.

Theater Outreach Coordinator: Coordinate outreach programs and community engagement initiatives for a theater company or organization. Develop partnerships, organize workshops, and facilitate educational events.

Theater Education Assistant: Assist in theater education programs for children or adults. Help develop curriculum, lead workshops, and support instructors in teaching acting, improvisation, or other theater skills.

Props Assistant: Assist in sourcing, organizing, and maintaining props for theater productions. Work with prop designers and stage managers to ensure props are ready and functional for rehearsals and performances.

Once you get some experience the roles below are positions you could grow into:

Director: Responsible for the artistic vision and overall direction of a theatrical production. Direct actors, collaborate with designers, and oversee rehearsals to bring the script to life on stage.

Producer: Oversee the financial and logistical aspects of a theatrical production. Secure funding, hire key personnel, manage budgets, and coordinate the production process from pre-production to post-production.

Production Manager: Coordinate and oversee the various elements of a theatrical production. Manage budgets, schedules, and logistics to ensure that all aspects of the production run smoothly and efficiently.

Technical Director: Manage the technical aspects of a theatrical production, including lighting, sound, and stage mechanics. Coordinate with designers, oversee equipment setup, and ensure technical elements are executed according to the director’s vision.

Scenic Designer: Design and create the sets and scenery for a theatrical production. Work closely with the director to visualize the setting and atmosphere of the play, and oversee construction and installation of set pieces.

Event Manager: Plan and coordinate events, including theatrical productions, concerts, and performances. Manage logistics, budgets, and timelines to ensure successful and memorable events.

Costume Designer: Design and create costumes for actors in a theatrical production. Develop costumes that enhance character portrayal and contribute to the overall visual aesthetic of the production.

Lighting Designer: Design the lighting scheme for a theatrical production. Create atmosphere, focus attention, and enhance mood through the use of various lighting techniques and effects.

Projection Designer: Create visual projections to enhance the storytelling and visual elements of a theatrical production. Design and implement projected imagery, videos, and animations onto set pieces or screens.

Sound Designer: Design and create the sound effects and music for a theatrical production. Develop soundscapes, cues, and effects that enhance the narrative and atmosphere of the play.

Choreographer: Create and teach dance routines and movement sequences for theatrical productions. Collaborate with the director and performers to choreograph dances that complement the story and characters.

Drama Teacher/Professor: Educate students in the art of drama and theater. Develop curriculum, teach acting techniques, and lead rehearsals and performances to help students develop their skills in theater arts.

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Contact & Location

Phone
617-735-9930
Email
careercenter@emmanuel.edu
Address

Leslie Ferrick McCafferty Career Center
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400 The Fenway
Boston, MA 02115

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