PPA launches first digital publishing qualification

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The Periodical Publishers Association (PPA) has established the UK’s first qualification in digital publishing.

In partnership with online publishing firm E-consultancy , the diploma in digital publishing is aimed at senior managers in media, who are responsible for the digital development of their group or title.

Over nine months students of the diploma will learn how to successfully drive traffic to their online properties and how to monitor this audience.

Advice on blog development and modules in usability and search engine optimisation are also included on the course, which costs £6,000 and is expected to take its first intake in February 2008.

According to the PPA, the diploma gives a 'multi-channel approach' to publishing and considers how 'traditional models work with online'.

"There is a current skills shortage in the whole of the digital sector and our discussions with PPA have highlighted the importance of formal digital training in an industry having to evolve at an incredible rate," said Craig Hanna, training director at E-consultancy.

Teaching staff on the course include Ian Jindal, former head of online operations at the BBC, and John Weir, who led Future Publishing's technology and internet strategy or five years.

There are 10 places on the diploma, which will be run four times a year, and interested individuals are being asked to register online for more information.