Bachelor of Journalism majoring in Strategic Communication

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Magill Campus, Adelaide City

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

BJOUR

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$41,300

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115723J

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Requirement	Score
Australia	ATAR	75
Bangladesh	Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.85
China	Gaokao	65%
China	Maple Leaf Education Systems World School Program	67%
Global	International Baccalaureate	26
Hong Kong	Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	17
India	CBSE and CISCE	75
India	State Board Examinations	85
Indonesia	SMA III	78%
Kenya	Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia	Matrikulasi	2.78
Malaysia	Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.78
Malaysia	United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	20
Nepal	National Examinations Board (NEB)	3.01
Phillippines	High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12	87%
Singapore	Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	8
Sri Lanka	GCE A Levels	9
Taiwan	GSAT %	65%
Thailand	Matayom 6	3.40
UK / Global	GCE Advanced Levels	8
UK / Global	NCUK	8
USA / Global	Advanced Placement (AP)	8
USA / Global	America College Test (ACT)	22
USA / Global	Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)	1130
Vietnam	Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thôxwng (Vietnamese Year 12)	8

Why Bachelor of Journalism?

Interested in a field that combines journalism’s storytelling and investigative skills with strategic communication?

Create influential content that connects with audiences across digital, social and traditional media platforms. From crafting powerful messages for brands to reporting on pivotal societal issues, you could lead conversations and shape perceptions.

Be the creative mind behind a viral campaign, a trusted advisor on crisis communication or a storyteller bringing important issues to a wide audience.

Whether you're influencing public opinion or guiding a brand's voice, you’ll have the skills to make a lasting impact on the way people see and engage with the world.

Overview

The Bachelor of Journalism majoring in Strategic Communication gives you the essential skills to excel in a variety of media and communication roles.

You'll learn how to create powerful messages that resonate across digital, print and broadcast platforms. This degree combines foundational and advanced knowledge in journalism with a focus on strategic approaches to communicating key messages.

Build expertise in storytelling, branding and audience engagement. Gain an understanding of ethical and legal considerations so you’re prepared to navigate complex media scenarios.

Through practical experience and industry-aligned projects, you'll apply your skills in real-world settings. By graduation, you’ll be ready to shape public perception, drive awareness and communicate effectively in roles such as a corporate affairs strategist, communications manager, journalist or public relations specialist.

Key features

Master the art of crafting compelling stories that connect with diverse audiences.
Gain skills in brand messaging, media relations and digital communication.
Learn to create communications for social media, TV, video, audio and print.
Understand media law, ethics and policy for responsible reporting.
Build expertise in crisis communication and public relations strategies.
Develop hands-on experience through industry placement and/or a real-world project.

What you'll learn

In the Bachelor of Journalism majoring in Strategic Communication at Adelaide University, you’ll develop both journalism and strategic communication skills that prepare you for a diverse range of media and strategic communication roles.

In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in journalism principles and storytelling techniques. Courses cover essential skills in news writing, audio journalism and multimedia journalism.

You’ll also explore how brands use imagery and narrative to connect with audiences. This knowledge will help you understand the basics of effective strategic communication.

In your second year you’ll focus on more specialised areas of communication. Learn about media law, policy and ethics, which will ensure you have a solid grounding in responsible reporting.

Other courses covered include:

Feature writing
Media relations
Writing for strategic communication.

These topics will give you the skills to craft messages tailored to specific audiences and tell important public interest stories.

Explore digital and social media management and gain hands-on experience managing content across various platforms.

In the final year, you’ll explore advanced topics like investigative journalism, constructive journalism and media politics. Courses in strategic communication theory and practice will refine your ability to craft and implement effective communication strategies.

Through a professional placement or project, you’ll gain practical experience and apply what you've learned in a real-world setting.

Graduate with a versatile skill set, ready to take on roles where strong communication skills are essential such as in media, public relations, social media management and more.

Majors

The Bachelor of Journalism is also available with majors in:

This degree is also available without a major.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

90 units for Core courses, and
Either:
48 units for one Major from Majors, or
48 units for Electives, and
6 units for all Work integrated learning

Complete 90 units comprising:

18 units from Common core, and
72 units for all Program core

	Course code	Units
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6

	Course code	Units
Course name Journalism Foundations	Course code JOUR1000	Units 6
Course name News Writing	Course code JOUR1004	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Broadcast	Course code JOUR1005	Units 6
Course name Multimedia Journalism	Course code JOUR1006	Units 6
Course name Audio Journalism	Course code JOUR1007	Units 6
Course name Journalism Theory and Practice	Course code JOUR2000	Units 6
Course name Feature Writing	Course code JOUR2001	Units 6
Course name Television and Video Journalism	Course code JOUR2002	Units 6
Course name Constructive Journalism	Course code JOUR3000	Units 6
Course name Journalism Production	Course code JOUR3001	Units 6
Course name Investigative Journalism	Course code JOUR3002	Units 6
Course name Media Law, Policy and Ethics	Course code MDIA2022	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Image, Brand and Narrative	Course code MDIA1019	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Strategic Communication	Course code MDIA1026	Units 6
Course name Writing for Strategic Communication	Course code MDIA2000	Units 6
Course name Digital and Social Media Management	Course code MDIA2005	Units 6
Course name Media, Politics and Activism	Course code MDIA2008	Units 6
Course name Media Relations	Course code MDIA2009	Units 6
Course name Advanced Strategic Communication Theory and Practice	Course code MDIA3007	Units 6
Course name Strategic Communication in Practice	Course code MDIA3016	Units 6

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Journalism Internship	Course code JOUR3900	Units 6

Complete 48 units comprising:

48 units from Free electives

Career outcomes

With a Bachelor of Journalism majoring in Strategic Communication at Adelaide University, you could find yourself as a communications advisor for top companies like Apple, Telstra or Coca-Cola, shaping public perception and driving brand loyalty.

You could work for a major media organisation as a reporter or a teller of complex and important stories. Or you might work in international organisations like the United Nations or World Health Organisation, crafting powerful messages that inform and guide global audiences.

If you’re drawn to advocacy, roles with non-profits like Amnesty International or Greenpeace offer a chance to use strategic communication to amplify meaningful causes. From corporate PR to journalism to digital marketing and public affairs, this degree opens doors to diverse opportunities, preparing you to thrive in any fast-paced communication role.

Industry trends

The role of a strategic communications specialist is becoming increasingly important as organisations put greater emphasis on crisis management and reputation protection (ANZSOG, Crisis Communications, 2020).

Social and digital platforms have become the primary sources for media and information consumption. As a graduate of Adelaide University, you’ll have a mix of traditional and digital skills, analytical thinking and the ability to adapt quickly to new platforms and audience expectations.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: