Why Bachelor of Media and Communication?
Immersive Media technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR) are redefining the way humans interact with the world. From simulation suites where surgeons use VR to practice procedures, to AR interfaces for reimagining architecture and interior design, to new kinds of entertainment and journalism, and innovative engagement with the GLAM sector (Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums), immersive media is at the forefront of future directions in many industries.
Our Bachelor of Media and Communication majoring in Immersive Media will introduce you to the exciting field of Extended Realities (XR), which encompasses VR, AR, MR and beyond. You’ll learn how to create interactive digital experiences for a range of purposes.
You’ll work with industry-standard software, develop technical skills in the full spectrum of extended realities (XR) technologies and create immersive worlds that will stand out, preparing you with the expertise to thrive in your immersive media career.
Overview
Our Bachelor of Media and Communication majoring in Immersive Media will introduce you to the full suite of virtual, augmented and mixed realities technologies.
Media-focused courses will cover the theories, principles, trends and issues shaping the media and communication industries. You’ll explore a variety of approaches to content creation, alongside legal and ethical principles particular to the creative industries.
Courses in immersive media design and development, user experience design (UXD) principles, and immersive storytelling will teach you how to create and develop high quality digital products for education and entertainment purposes.
You’ll gain technical skills through hands-on learning in our design and development courses. Learn how to design and develop for all extended reality software, broadening your employability prospects. You’ll get hands-on experience with 3D modelling, spatial sound, and immersive environment design to equip you with the expertise to work across a broad spectrum of roles associated with Virtual Reality creation.
You’ll also work on a production project in third year and undertake professional experience, ensuring you graduate career-ready upon completion.
Key features
Build strong theoretical foundations in media and communication concepts.- Study industry-informed content, preparing you for a range of future opportunities.
- Discuss the issues, trends and technologies shaping the immersive media industry.
- Engage in immersive storytelling to plan and develop content for a range of platforms.
- Be at the forefront of a technological revolution, building technical skills in AR, VR and MR.
- Work with high quality technologies and gain professional experience.
What you'll learn
In first year, you’ll cover the basics – learning about key media and communication concepts and theories. You’ll build a solid foundation in learning how to communicate and effectively engage with target audiences. Core issues, trends and technologies that are shaping media industries will also be introduced.
Other courses will explore the history and current state of immersive technology and the shifting needs of audiences. You’ll work through the full pipeline of creating appealing digital media and immersive stories, including graphic assets for game design, and interfaces for digital platforms. Discover the major theories, methods and tools of digital media design and apply them to create exciting user experiences.
In second year, you’ll get even more hands-on with virtual, mixed and augmented reality technologies, testing high-quality and industry-standard systems and learning how to design and develop software for these platforms. Gain insight into game engines, spatial sound, programming and 3D modelling, finding a career path that suits your interests.
Your final year will see you develop an understanding of storytelling and how it is used to captivate audiences. Prepare a proposal and reflect on your experiences through a production-focused project. Through your work-integrated learning, you’ll practise under the guidance of professional academics and pioneers of the industry.
Adelaide University will foster a flexible and inclusive learning environment by offering both on-campus and online study options. You can choose a mix of on-campus and online courses, allowing you to easily switch between face-to-face and online learning.
Majors
The Bachelor of Media and Communication is also available with majors in the following:
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 84 units for Core courses, and
- Either:
- 48 units for one Major from Majors, or
- 48 units from Discipline courses, and
- 6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
- 6 units for Electives
Complete 84 units comprising:
- 18 units from Common core, and
- 66 units for all Program core
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
An Ethically Rich Life
|
Course code
COREX001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fact or Fiction: Data for Everyone
|
Course code
COREX002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Igniting Change: Ideas to Action
|
Course code
COREX003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Proppa Ways, Future Practice
|
Course code
COREX004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Responsible AI: Bridging Ethics, Education and Industry
|
Course code
COREX005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Ways of Being, Ways of Seeing
|
Course code
COREX006
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Digital Platforms
|
Course code
MDIA1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Key Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA1018
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Identities
|
Course code
MDIA1016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Creating Content for Media
|
Course code
MDIA2101
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Media Law, Policy and Ethics
|
Course code
MDIA2022
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Research Methods in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA2021
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Promotional Culture
|
Course code
MDIA2102
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Media Industries in Transition
|
Course code
MDIA3015
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Experience
|
Course code
MDIA3905
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Strategic Planning for Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3017
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3023
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Key Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA1018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Digital Platforms
|
Course code
MDIA1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Visual Asset Design for Games
|
Course code
INFO2020
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Identities
|
Course code
MDIA1016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Creating Content for Media
|
Course code
MDIA2101
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Immersive Media Technologies
|
Course code
COGR1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Media Law, Policy and Ethics
|
Course code
MDIA2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Research Methods in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA2021
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Principles of UX Design
|
Course code
GRAP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 1
|
Course code
COGR2003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Promotional Culture
|
Course code
MDIA2102
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Project
|
Course code
MDIA2901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 2
|
Course code
COGR2004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Media Industries in Transition
|
Course code
MDIA3015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Strategic Planning for Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 1
|
Course code
CREA3008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Storytelling
|
Course code
MDIA3013
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Experience
|
Course code
MDIA3905
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 2
|
Course code
CREA3009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Immersive Media Technologies
|
Course code
COGR1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 1
|
Course code
COGR2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 2
|
Course code
COGR2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 1
|
Course code
CREA3008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 2
|
Course code
CREA3009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Principles of UX Design
|
Course code
GRAP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Visual Asset Design for Games
|
Course code
INFO2020
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Storytelling
|
Course code
MDIA3013
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Key Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA1018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Digital Platforms
|
Course code
MDIA1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Visual Asset Design for Games
|
Course code
INFO2020
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Identities
|
Course code
MDIA1016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Creating Content for Media
|
Course code
MDIA2101
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Immersive Media Technologies
|
Course code
COGR1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Media Law, Policy and Ethics
|
Course code
MDIA2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Research Methods in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA2021
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Principles of UX Design
|
Course code
GRAP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 1
|
Course code
COGR2003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Promotional Culture
|
Course code
MDIA2102
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Project
|
Course code
MDIA2901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 2
|
Course code
COGR2004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Media Industries in Transition
|
Course code
MDIA3015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Strategic Planning for Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 1
|
Course code
CREA3008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Storytelling
|
Course code
MDIA3013
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Experience
|
Course code
MDIA3905
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 2
|
Course code
CREA3009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Project
|
Course code
MDIA2901
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Key Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA1018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Digital Platforms
|
Course code
MDIA1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Visual Asset Design for Games
|
Course code
INFO2020
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Identities
|
Course code
MDIA1016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Creating Content for Media
|
Course code
MDIA2101
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Immersive Media Technologies
|
Course code
COGR1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Media Law, Policy and Ethics
|
Course code
MDIA2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Research Methods in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA2021
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Principles of UX Design
|
Course code
GRAP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 1
|
Course code
COGR2003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Promotional Culture
|
Course code
MDIA2102
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Project
|
Course code
MDIA2901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 2
|
Course code
COGR2004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Media Industries in Transition
|
Course code
MDIA3015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Strategic Planning for Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 1
|
Course code
CREA3008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Storytelling
|
Course code
MDIA3013
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Experience
|
Course code
MDIA3905
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 2
|
Course code
CREA3009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Complete 6 units comprising:
- 6 units from University-wide electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Key Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA1018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Digital Platforms
|
Course code
MDIA1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Visual Asset Design for Games
|
Course code
INFO2020
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Identities
|
Course code
MDIA1016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Creating Content for Media
|
Course code
MDIA2101
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Immersive Media Technologies
|
Course code
COGR1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Media Law, Policy and Ethics
|
Course code
MDIA2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Research Methods in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA2021
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Principles of UX Design
|
Course code
GRAP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 1
|
Course code
COGR2003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Promotional Culture
|
Course code
MDIA2102
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Project
|
Course code
MDIA2901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Design and Development 2
|
Course code
COGR2004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Media Industries in Transition
|
Course code
MDIA3015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Strategic Planning for Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 1
|
Course code
CREA3008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Storytelling
|
Course code
MDIA3013
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MDIA3023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Professional Experience
|
Course code
MDIA3905
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Immersive Media Production Project 2
|
Course code
CREA3009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
In this exciting field of immersive media, creativity meets cutting-edge technology to bring dreams to life. From developing awe-inspiring virtual worlds to creating engaging augmented reality applications, the extended realities of immersive media are reshaping our world.
Careers in this space span a variety of industries, including entertainment, education, healthcare, real estate and marketing - offering diverse opportunities for those passionate about immersive media technologies.
You could be the next creator of a popular smartphone game application, taking the world by storm with augmented reality gameplay. Maybe you’ll join the team at Meta, using groundbreaking technology to create next-generation headsets and smart glasses. Perhaps you’ll develop virtual reality-controlled exposure therapy, helping patients confront their fears in a safe environment.
Careers to consider include:
- Developer/programmer
- 3D modeler
- Animator
- Designer/interaction designer
- Production manager
- Audio engineer
- Human factors engineer
- Content creator/storyteller
Industry trends
The augmented and virtual reality market in Australia is projected to show an annual growth rate of 9.38% by 2029 (Statista, 2024). With the rise of Australians using XR headsets and participating in immersive media, you’ll use your expertise to take advantage and transform the global market.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
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.
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:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
