Developing a Demand-Oriented Talent Cultivation Pathway for the Cultural and Creative Industries: A Case Study of Dalian City

Abstract

Under national strategies promoting cultural development and the digital economy, Dalian’s cultural and creative industries have rapidly expanded, leading to rising demand for interdisciplinary talents with cultural and technical competencies. Yet current university programs remain insufficient in curriculum structure, interdisciplinary training, and industry–education linkage. Based on literature review, industry data, job posting analysis, and case comparison, this study examines industry development, talent needs, and university discipline configuration. Results show strong demand for interdisciplinary, technology-oriented, and innovation-driven competencies, while universities still lack integrated curricula, practical training, and regional collaboration. Accordingly, this paper proposes a pathway of “major clusters–interdisciplinary curricula–project-based training–ecosystem platforms” to build a talent cultivation system aligned with regional needs, providing guidance for local reform and reference for similar cities.