By Gerard Flanagan, lead writer and communications specialist, Office of Marketing and Communications
CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. – Twelve Campbellsville University students just turned a college class into a career boost—earning a Google Career Certification in digital marketing and e-commerce as part of their coursework, a first in the university’s history.
“This is new ground for CU and is quite historic for the Mass Communications division,” Dr. Shane Garrison, dean of CU Online, shared. “This initiative reflects Campbellsville University’s vision to be hope-filled, equipping students not just to earn a diploma, but to thrive in a digital, rapidly changing world.”
The students earned the certification in Dr. Mary Pauley’s Foundations of Digital Communication class. The class taught students the fundamentals of digital marketing, including understanding how online marketing fits into broader communication strategies and email marketing and content strategy.
“I’m thrilled to be part of this program to give students the opportunity to earn a professional certification while learning digital communication,” Pauley said. “It’s rewarding to equip them with real-world skills that prepare them for careers in digital marketing and e-commerce.”
Students also learned how to utilize search engine optimization to increase online visibility and drive traffic through Google Ads and keyword strategy and how to use analytics and measurement to interpret data and improve marketing outcomes.
Through the Google Career Certifications, these Campbellsville University students now hold industry-recognized credentials that demonstrate career-ready skills, according to Pauley.
“This certification not only enhances their resumes but also strengthens their confidence in applying digital communication strategies across businesses,” she shared.
Garrison added the 12 students who received their Google Career Certifications are now well-prepared for future employment by adding practical, relevant skills to their portfolio.
“Students who complete Google Career certificates alongside their bachelor’s degree demonstrate the best of both worlds: career-ready, technical skills and the deep, critical thinking that higher education provides,” Garrison said.
The Google Career Certificate program is an online training program that offers professional certificates in fast-growing, high-demand technology fields. The program is designed by Google and taught by experts in the areas of IT, user experience design, project management, and more. The program combines skills training with hands-on practice. In addition, job seekers receive support and practical tips for resumes, interviews, and job searches.
Google Career Certificates are designed and built by subject-matter experts and senior practitioners at Google. Every certificate has been created to equip learners with the knowledge and problem-solving skills to be successful.
Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university that offers over 100 programs including doctoral, master, bachelor, associate and certificate programs. The website for complete information is www.campbellsville.edu.
(Gerard Flanagan, Lead Writer and Communications Specialist – Office of Marketing and Communications)