Bachelor of Communication and Media
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2024
You're viewing degree information for International students
You're considered an International student if you are:
- NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
- NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Program Code
MBCD
Prerequisites
None
Assumed Knowledge
None
Fees
AUD$ 30,900 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024
Admissions
Student Profile
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
081881B
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND- Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
- Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
- Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
OR
Higher education study- Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
- Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience- Qualify for Special Entry, or
- Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
NoneEnglish language entry requirements
In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:English language testPlease access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
Admission Requirements by Country
Bangladesh HSC 3.5 Canada High School (OSSD) 60 Eynesbury FSP 310 German Abitur 3.8 Kenya KCSE (average) B Malaysia STPM (best 3) 6 Malaysia UEC 32 Norway GPA 2.8 Pakistan HSSC 75 Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3) 6 Sweden GPA 12.5 UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board 6 Vietnam 7 Australia 65 IB (best 6) 26 USA SAT (1600) 1050 India (best 4) State Board 70 India (best 4) Central Board 60 HKDSE 15 Nepal NEB 2.41
This degree can be packaged with a masters degree. For more information and SATAC codes visit Fast-track to Masters
Degree overview
- Study a degree that has been designed and developed in consultation with industry.
- Study courses in content creation, social media strategy and engagement, professional writing, media management and public relations.
- Customise your degree by choosing a sub-major such as Social Media, Journalism, Digital Media, Marketing or Film and Television.
- Learn from industry experts.
- Gain valuable real-world experience when you complete a final-year industry placement or project.
- Gain hands-on experience by working with industry partners across a range of courses.
- Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Language, Communication and Culture1.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Snapshot
Skilled communicators are essential in every organisation and industry sector, and this adaptable degree will equip you with the knowledge and skills to plan, develop and deliver communication activities across a range of platforms.
You will develop skills in:
- writing and creating content for traditional and online media
- analysing social media and its role in society
- managing media and public relations
- critical and analytical thinking required for the strategic planning and management of communication and media.
Practical, real-world experience is a key component of this degree and in your final year you will complete an industry internship. Industry and community engagement opportunities are also featured in several courses, enabling you to put your skills to practice on real communication projects.
Eligible students can gain a further competitive advantage by completing an undergraduate degree in Communication and Media with a Master of Communication in just four years. This is a great way of elevating your career prospects.
Based on academic merit and quota, you may have the option to do the one-year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at the end of this degree. Honours is an intensive year of advanced study that develops your abilities in academic research. It allows you to research a topic that interests you. Other selection criteria may apply.
If you’re interested in studying a combined degree with the Bachelor of Communication and Media, please submit an enquiry and we’ll get in touch to discuss your options.
Current combined degree options include the Bachelor of Communication and Media and:
- Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing
- Bachelor of Arts (any specialisation)
- Bachelor of Film and Television
- Bachelor of Business (Tourism and Event Management).
This degree offers flexible study options with all courses being available at Magill campus, City West campus or Online.
What you'll learn
You will learn how to write, plan, deliver and evaluate communication strategies that engage and inform target audiences using a range of media platforms. With a focus on communication for both traditional and online media, you'll study:
- writing and content creation for traditional and online
- social media strategy, engagement and content creation
- strategic planning and management of communication and media
- communication and media research
- media law and ethics
- emerging trends
Studying communication and media at UniSA gives you the flexibility to select a sub-major, so you can specialise in fields such as journalism, film and television, social media, marketing, or digital media. A social media sub-major would be highly desirable in a social media management role, while a journalism sub-major would prepare you for media advisor roles. If you're interested in digital content, then a digital media sub-major may be for you. Other popular sub-majors include marketing, film and television, tourism, and event management.
You will also select two electives, enabling you to further build on your skills and knowledge. There is a focus on professional practice, and during your final year, you will get the opportunity to complete an industry placement working in a public relations, social media, communication management or media role.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies at UniSA will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
- projects
- portfolios
- reports
- presentations
- essays
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Why Bachelor of Communication and Media
This degree has been developed and designed with industry, which means it is relevant, up-to-date and guaranteed to provide you with the best start in this fast-paced industry.
In fact, the curriculum continues to be informed by industry partners, meaning you’re accessing content and knowledge which is always relevant and up to date. This style of learning, combined with final-year real-world experience, ensures you'll graduate career-ready.
Study at UniSA
Hear from Natalie as she shares her experiences studying a Bachelor of Communication and Media at UniSA.
Your career
Skilled communicators are essential in every organisation and industry to plan, develop and deliver communication across a range of platforms and situations. From social media to crisis communication, get ready to share and shape the stories of your organisation and industry. There is no better time to begin a career in communication and media.
As a professional communicator you will be interested in the world around you, current affairs, public communication in all its forms, and the communication aspects of political, economic and social issues. You will also have a passion for writing and language, a curiosity about why and how people communicate, and a desire to use communication skills to promote understanding of significant political, social, cultural and scientific issues and events. Careers to consider:
- communication officer: plan, create and develop content for publications, manage an organisation’s online presence and communicate with target publics and stakeholders
- content creator and writer: write for a range of channels and mediums including web, blogs, news, social media, search engine optimisation, publications and advertising
- digital and social media manager: responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies for an organisation’s social media sites and website
- media liaison officer: manage an organisation’s media profile, create media releases and editorial content, and liaise with media outlets to coordinate activities
- PR coordinator: understand and support client needs – and use all forms of media and communication to build, maintain and manage their reputation
- marketing and communication officer: coordinate advertising and public relations activities for businesses
online editor: plan, create, edit and publish content online - strategic communication manager: develop integrated communication and marketing campaigns, set clear communication goals and objectives, develop strategies, tactics, budgets and schedules for a campaign – and learn to measure the effectiveness of each medium to monitor success.
Industry facts
How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- UniSA College Diploma in Creative Studies (Communication)
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Creative Studies)
- SAIBT Diploma of Arts
International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- SAIBT Diploma of Arts
- see the full list of entry pathways that may apply
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.
Your study experience and support
As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
- career advice and mentoring
- help with student visas and health cover
- personal counselling
- academic counselling
- fees and finance help
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- accommodation services
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your program director
Communication is at the core of how we live today in our connected and globalised world.
Effective communication and media management allows us to influence behaviour and decisions, to increase awareness and profile, to build reputation, and to facilitate the exchange of mass information. Communication and media roles exist within all industry sectors and many types of organisations, creating a wealth of opportunities for our graduates. There is no other field that has that reach.
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How to apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
What others are saying
This degree is very versatile and has allowed me to combine all my specific interests, including public relations, journalism and digital design, into one degree. I also had the opportunity to undertake an internship as part of the program and a short course in Florence, Italy, studying media and communication in the fashion industry.
Helena Senesi
Bachelor of Communication and Media
As a Marketing Manager at KPMG, I manage a team that executes internal and external communications and events. Undertaking a double degree in Marketing and International business gave me a broad understanding of macro business issues, and how marketing is a strategic contributor to business and economic growth.
Chloe Benton, Marketing Manager, SA KPMG
Bachelor of Communication and Media
Introduction to Social Media has helped me to capitalise on my communication skills. Always engaging with plenty of interaction from staff and peers, the course has helped me further my knowledge with plenty of interesting and current material.
Amber Brown
Bachelor of Communication and Media
It was a pleasure to work with the final year Communication and Media students at UniSA. I found them to be highly engaged and passionate about delivering an effective and visually appealing digital solution. With a wide range of skills across the digital, creative, communication and media spectrum, they have a great foundation from which to embrace and add value to today’s globally connected workplace.
James Stewart
National Head of Digital | KOJO
Hear from Minnie as she shares her experiences studying at UniSA and her journey as a Communication and Media graduate.
Hear from Alana as she shares her experiences studying at UniSA and her journey as a Bachelor of Communication and Media student.
Hear from Kit as he shares his experiences studying Communication and Media at UniSA.
