Innovative technology continues to have an impact on digital marketing, which is why it can’t be ignored. One of the latest advancements that is worthy of our attention is virtual reality. With the ability to create computer-generated environments, viewers can be immersed in an entirely new world. It’s even possible to interact and manipulate the things around them, making VR experiences incredibly memorable.

Believe it or not, virtual reality is within reach for your university. Imagine the endless possibilities to market your programs and interact with prospective students. Don’t wait to create a VR marketing campaign until everyone else has. Be one of the first.

Below we share a few of the ways that virtual reality can be used to change the trajectory for higher education marketing.

Tell a Personal Brand Story

Brand stories are extremely important for colleges and universities, because without them, they would all look the same. Students enjoy attending schools where they feel like they are a part of something bigger. They are eager to believe the stories and backgrounds that resonate with them. Virtual reality can be used to tell your personal brand story. Topics you can explore include:

  • What makes your school unique

  • Why students should attend your school

  • Benefits of obtaining a degree at your school

  • History and background of how your school was founded

  • Personal stories from past students

Take Students on a Campus Tour

With virtual tours and 3D images, more and more students are forgoing the traditional campus tours and sticking to their computers and mobile devices. However, virtual reality bridges the gap. It takes students around campus without their having to physically be there. You can show footage of your dorms, cafeterias, libraries, computer labs, common areas and more. VR technology also allows students to be captured in their environment for a more well-rounded experience.

For even more enjoyment, add in one of these features:

  • Include a personal assistant

  • Use a “choose your adventure” model

  • Give students control over their experience

  • Offer personalized information

  • Create virtual classrooms

  • Answer questions through experience, not words

Share Student Testimonials

Nothing is more effective than listening to the experiences of other students on campus. These stories are raw, relatable, and authentic. If a student is considering your university, they will want unedited feedback at one point or another. This is where student testimonials come in handy. And, thanks to VR, they can be shared in a very genuine and personal manner.

Here are some potential storylines that students can share:

  • What life was like before and after obtaining a degree

  • Experiences while working on their degree

  • What the classes and programs are like

  • Bonds that were formed with instructors

  • What it’s like to live on campus

  • Being part of an activity (i.e., sports, theater, campus clubs)

Virtual reality sounds fancy, but it’s not above your school’s higher education marketing plan. By incorporating more VR into your campaigns, you can make an incredible difference in the way your school is perceived by students. And, you’ll be a giant step ahead of your competitors.

James Geiger
Lead Developer

James Geiger is a Lead Developer with degrees in Computer Science and English Literature from Brookdale Community College and Elon University. Serving as technical advisor to management and providing programming perspective on client requirements, his teams are responsible for prioritizing software reliability, scalability and performance. In his free time, you can find him cooking and spending time with family.