Start date
February
July

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus/Online

Program Code
DBCI

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 32,800 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [6.0]
  • IELTS reading [6.0]
  • IELTS writing [6.0]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
0100163

Degree overview

  • Elevate your career prospects when you graduate with an enterprising skill set that combines business, creativity, technology, innovation, and communication.
  • Prepare for a career in the growing Creative Industries, media, and communication sectors.
  • The Creative Industries is a collective of cultural sectors encompassing the visual and performing arts; film and television; digital media; social media; animation, web and games design; festival; and writing and publishing. Creative industries are distinguished from other fields in that creativity is used to create value and impactful experiences for consumers.
  • In your bachelor’s degree, choose Communications and Media as one of your majors and then select a second learning area from a range of creative and business areas that interest you the most.
  • UniSA is No.1 in SA for learning resources in Creative Arts1.
  • Complete an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in just four years (instead of five) through this fast-track to Masters in Communication program.
  • You’ll also develop industry-led projects through Match Studio, providing you with a highly practical and transferable skill set to give your career a competitive head-start.
  • Develop expertise in advanced communication theory, practice and trends through the master’s program and study courses in campaigns and crises; digital design; communication, media and creative industries.
  • Engage with guest lecturers and industry experts to hear from leaders in the field and develop your professional network.
  • UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities2, we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Learning Resources Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.
2UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

Snapshot

Fast-track your career and gain a bachelor and master qualification in just four years with this Fast-track to Masters in Communication program. You'll study a three-year Bachelor of Creative Industries degree and a one-year Master of Communication qualification (which typically takes two years full-time) by swapping four undergraduate courses or electives for selected postgraduate courses.

You’ll stand out from the rest when you graduate with an enterprising skill set that spans business, creativity, technology, innovation, and communication, combined with professional experience gained during your studies.

As part of this fast-track program, you’ll study one of 12 industry majors:

And:

  • Pair your industry major with a second learning area, allowing you to tailor your studies towards your chosen career pathway, as you develop crucial professional, business, and enterprise skills
  • Build your professional skills in social and digital media management, public relations, and strategic communication
  • Develop your knowledge of the social and political aspects of communication underpinned by advanced research methods and planning skills.

You’ll graduate with multidisciplinary skills and professional experience that will allow you to work in commercial contexts and settings, freelance as an independent artist or launch creative start-ups in your chosen field. Through postgraduate study, you’ll develop the capabilities to be a successful leader and decision-maker in any communication setting, across a diverse range of industries.

Want to look at other options available to you? UniSA offer a wide range of other Fast-track to Masters programs.

What you'll learn

What you Learn

In your undergraduate degree you’ll study core courses in the Creative Industries, including courses in business practice and entrepreneurship relevant to the Creative Industries sector. You’ll select your primary Industry Major and a second learning area. Note that Communications and Media must be selected as one of your two learning areas.

Industry Majors:

Animation and Visual Effects (with Rising Sun Pictures)
Explore a range of animation forms and techniques, including pixilation, 3D modelling and animation, character design and performance, and experimental storytelling. Gain an in-depth understanding of the core disciplines within visual effects, including compositing, tracking, dynamic effects and lighting. You will also have the opportunity to learn first-hand from VFX professionals at world-renowned Rising Sun Pictures, who have creative visual effects for blockbusters including Game of Thrones, Gravity, X-Men, Days of Future Past, The Great Gatsby, Elvis, Thor:Love and Thunder, and the Harry Potter series.

Comicbook Creation (with Writers SA)
Learn how to create and analyse storytelling techniques in oral, textual and visual forms as you develop an in-depth understanding of the historical, theoretical and cultural nature of comics, graphic narratives and cartoons. Tell your own stories as you participate in illustration animation studio courses, and develop your skills in idea generation, design methodology, sequential storytelling skills and image-making to create your own graphic novel.

Communication and Media (with communicate et al)
Build your knowledge and skills in media relations, social media management, communication, media technologies, public relations and professional writing. Learn how to apply these principles to develop strategic and integrated communication plans.

Contemporary Art Studies (with Guildhouse)
Explore the foundational concepts of art theory and practice. Expand your knowledge and skills in contemporary art disciplines such as ceramics, drawing, glass, jewellery and metal, new media arts, painting, printmaking, sculpture, textiles, and contemporary art history and theory. Learn in custom-built studios and workshops on-campus and be taught by practicing artists, highly skilled teachers and academics.

Creative Writing and Literature (with Writers SA)
Examine creative writing techniques across fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction, autobiographies, essays, and plays. Discover the interplay between writers, readers and texts, and how literature both informs and challenges social constructs through the notions of narrative, genre and canon. Produce your own creative and analytical literature under the guidance of professional writers and poets.

Digital Media (with Solstice Media)
Develop your knowledge of design principles, using industry-standard software to analyse, design and create a variety of digital media across print, video, web and mobile platforms. Develop essential skills in graphic and web design, video and audio production, and digital storytelling.

Festivals (with Festivals Adelaide)
Gain industry-specific skills for festivals management including devising budgets, effective programming, management systems and software, artist and volunteer management, and audience development. Develop an understanding of festival genres and their history, along with the importance of curation and sustainability for seasonal growth. Learn about the cultural and economic impacts of festivals locally and globally, and participate in an immersive placement experience during your studies.

Film and Television (with Channel 44)
Immerse yourself in the theory and practice of film and television and explore its communicative and creative possibilities. Ranging from documentary and narrative film through to experimental work, develop storytelling skills, production values and the creative use of formal elements and techniques to engage and entertain an audience. From conceptualisation to post-production, gain hands-on experience and insight into the production cycle and learn what it takes to develop content for the screen.

Games Design and Production (with Unreal Engine (by Epic Games))
Build your expertise in games and interactive media design, along with skills in project management for game development, storytelling, and user experience and user interface design. Be supported and guided by games industry professionals as you develop and refine your games design and production skills. Benefit from our partnerships with industry heavyweights like Epic Games - makers of the world’s most popular and widely used game engine, Unreal.

Performing Arts
Create live music and drama performance and produce aural and visual media using the latest digital technologies and production facilities. Develop your own creative practice within a global context and in a collaborative environment guided by industry practitioners. 

Screen Studies (with the Adelaide Film Festival)
Explore the different creative contexts that shape film-making and contemporary screen cultures. Engage directly with the world of screen curatorship and film festival programming. Learn about Hollywood and the global diversity of film and media. Study contemporary world cinemas, screen media authorships, popular genres, experimental media and the age of digital convergence.

Social Media
Study one of the few social media majors offered in Australia. Learn how to develop social media campaigns and online content, and understand how to manage and interpret social media data, optimisations and metrics. Develop your digital writing skills, ability to align social media platforms to target audiences, and knowledge of how to grow and manage online communities.

In addition to your Industry Major, you will select a second learning area.

You can select a second learning area from the list above, or one of the following options:

  • Aboriginal Studies
  • Cultural Studies
  • Design Studies
  • Event Management
  • Games
  • Human Resources Management
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship
  • Journalism
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Tourism Management.

Note: Students wishing to select two of the following Majors: ‘Film and Television’, ‘Screen Studies’ and/or ‘Animation and Effects’ should also consider the Bachelor of Film and Television.

Through your postgraduate studies, you’ll advance your knowledge and skills in communication practices and explore topics including

  • digital entrepreneurship,
  • digital design, and
  • strategic communication in campaigns and crises. 

You’ll develop advanced management and writing skills, and advanced knowledge of

  • social and digital media management
  • ethical communication
  • strategic communication plans and practices.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2, or 3)
Introduction to Creative Industries COMM 1081 4.5
Industry Major 4.5 Note(s): 1
Minor 4.5 Note(s): 2,3
Elective 1 4.5 Note(s): 4
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Match Studio Projects ARCH 2027 4.5
Industry Major 4.5 Note(s): 1
Minor 4.5 Note(s): 2,3
Elective 2 4.5 Note(s): 4
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2, or 3)
Freelance and Enterprise for the Creative Industries COMM 2103 4.5
Industry Major 4.5 Note(s): 1
Industry Major 4.5 Note(s): 1
Minor 4.5 Note(s): 2,3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5, or 6)
Creative Spaces and Places COMM 2101 4.5
Industry Major 4.5 Note(s): 1
Industry Major 4.5 Note(s): 1
Minor 4.5 Note(s): 2,3
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2, or 3)
Creative Ventures COMM 3086 4.5
OR
Enterprise Design and Value Creation BUSS 3102 4.5
Industry Major 4.5 Note(s): 1 Rule(s): 1
Professional Communication COMM 5081 4.5
Communication and Media: Advanced COMM 4005 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5, or 6)
Internship or Project COMM 3063 4.5
Industry Major 4.5 Note(s): 1 Rule(s): 1
Managing Digital Design COMM 5068 4.5
Campaigns and Crises COMM 5005 4.5

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

Assessment

Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

  • portfolios
  • reports
  • essays
  • projects
  • online activities

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.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Creative Industries (Pathway to Master of Communication)

Why this Degree

If you’re searching for a degree that will launch your career as a leader in the creative industries, then this fast-track to Masters in Communication program is for you. By studying these two industry-informed degrees you will graduate with multidisciplinary skills that are industry relevant and highly sought after. You’ll also elevate your career options when you graduate with the capabilities needed to work in strategic communication roles.

In an era when many traditional jobs are heading towards automation, the Creative Industries are thriving. The Creative Industries includes sectors such as Film and Television, Contemporary Art, Games Design and Programming, Festivals Management, Creative Writing and many more.

In fact, all sectors including health, manufacturing, finance and engineering also rely on employing people who can think differently, communicate effectively and lead innovation.

In this fast-track program you’ll have the opportunity to study in a highly connected environment and the University of South Australia will support and challenge you as you strive towards your unstoppable career in the creative industries and beyond.

Career outcomes

Your career

As the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers1, our quality teaching and experiences beyond the classroom will ensure you graduate career-ready.

Career destinations for graduates will depend on the industry-majors and discipline areas selected.  

Animation and Visual Effects
Visual effects generalist, animator or visual storyteller

Comicbook Creation 
Storyboard developer, comic artist, comic designer, film storyboard artist or illustrator

Communication and Media 
Communication officer, content creator and writer, media advisor, public relations coordinator, marketing and communication officer or strategic communication manager 

Contemporary Art Studies 
Artist, art administrator, art critic, curator or exhibitions manager 

Creative Writing and Literature 
Creative writer, author, editor, publisher, literary critic or commentator, content creator or teacher (with further study)  

Digital Media 
Digital/web designer, graphic designer, online editor, digital marketing officer, videographer, or digital project manager and producer

Festivals 
Festival manager, festival director, event programmer, curator, cultural liaison officer, event coordinator or creative lead

Games Design and Production 
Game designer, game programmer, app designer, digital project manager, production manager or multimedia specialist

Performing Arts 
Actor, performance artist, musician, playwright, director, producer, arts administrator, arts coordinator, stage technician, stage designer or teacher (with further study)

Screen Studies 
Festival programmer, publicist, funding assistant, arts administrator, film researcher, film distributor, events manager, curator, museums programmer, journalist or teacher (with further study)

Social Media 
Content creator and writer, digital and social media manager, marketing and communication officer, online editor, social media liaison officer or strategic communication manager

Corporate communication adviser 
Prepare communication strategies and materials including media releases, briefing notes, thought leadership pieces, and speeches; build and develop strong relationships with key media and other external stakeholders; provide crisis and issues support when needed

Communication officer
Convey an organisation’s internal and external messages; plan and write content for promotional publications, websites, blogs and social media profiles; prepare media releases and liaise with journalists; develop advertising material for print, radio and television; and coordinate events

Content creator and writer
Develop compelling content, creative concepts and copy for a range of marketing and communication materials including email campaigns, long-form articles, style guides, social media, written scripts, and landing pages; work closely with designers, web developers, photographers, and videographers; and use insights and analytics to continually optimise content.

 

1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019-21 –Full-time Employment Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

How to apply

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:

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

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.

More scholarships

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

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.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your program director

Dr Jess Pacella

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Dr Jess Pacella
Portrait image for Dr Jess Pacella

Dr Jess Pacella

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    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? minus-thick plus-thick

    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.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    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.

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    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.

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