From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill 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.
Recent 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) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification from a recognised higher education institution.
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 qualificationsInternational admissions by country
Country | Score |
---|---|
Australia – ATAR | 75 |
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) | 4.85 |
China – Gaokao | 65% |
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) | 17 |
India – CBSE and CISCE | 75 |
India – State Board Examinations | 85 |
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) | B+ |
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) | 2.78 |
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC) | 20 |
Malaysia – Matrikulasi | 2.78 |
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels | 8 |
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels | 9 |
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông | 8.00 |
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:
- Digital and Social Media Storytelling
- Games Design and Production
- Digital Media and Web Design
- Media Cultures
- Screen Production
- Screen Studies
- Strategic Communication.
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 78 units from Core courses, and
- Either:
- 48 units for one Major from Majors, or
- 48 units from Discipline courses, and
- 12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
- 54 units from Electives
Complete exactly 78 units from the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Key Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MARK1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media and Communication Project
|
Course code
MDIA2901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Digital Platforms
|
Course code
MDIA1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Creating Content for Media
|
Course code
MARK2101
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media Law, Policy and Ethics
|
Course code
MARK2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Research Methods in Media and Communication
|
Course code
MARK2002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Promotional Culture
|
Course code
MARK2102
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Media Industries in Transition
|
Course code
CREA3012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Strategic Planning for Media and Communication
|
Course code
MARK3006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Concepts in Media and Communication
|
Course code
CREA3023
|
Units
6
|
|
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
|
Complete exactly 48 units from the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Digital and Social Media Storytelling
|
Course code
DIGSBMECO
|
Units
48
|
|
Course name
Digital and Social Media Storytelling
|
Course code
DIGSBJOUR
|
Units
48
|
|
Course name
Media Cultures
|
Course code
MEDCBMECO
|
Units
48
|
|
Course name
Digital Media and Web Design
|
Course code
DIGMBMECO
|
Units
48
|
|
Course name
Screen Studies
|
Course code
SCRNBMECO
|
Units
48
|
|
Course name
Screen Production
|
Course code
SCRPBMECO
|
Units
48
|
|
Course name
Games Design and Production
|
Course code
GAMEBMECO
|
Units
48
|
|
Course name
Strategic Communication
|
Course code
STRABMECO
|
Units
48
|
|
Course name
Elective 1
|
Course code
AUXX1011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 2
|
Course code
AUXX1012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 3
|
Course code
AUXX1013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 4
|
Course code
AUXX1014
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 5
|
Course code
AUXX1015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 6
|
Course code
AUXX1016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 7
|
Course code
AUXX1017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 8
|
Course code
AUXX1018
|
Units
6
|
Complete one Major from the following:
Major name | |
---|---|
Major
Digital Media and Web Design
|
|
Major
Digital and Social Media Storytelling
|
|
Major
Immersive Media
|
|
Major
Media Cultures
|
|
Major
Screen Production
|
|
Major
Screen Studies
|
|
Major
Strategic Communication
|
Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Media and Communication Project
|
Course code
MDIA2901
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Internship or Project
|
Course code
CREA3026
|
Units
6
|
Complete exactly 54 units from the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Elective 1
|
Course code
AUXX1011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 2
|
Course code
AUXX1012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 3
|
Course code
AUXX1013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 4
|
Course code
AUXX1014
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 5
|
Course code
AUXX1015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 6
|
Course code
AUXX1016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 7
|
Course code
AUXX1017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 8
|
Course code
AUXX1018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Elective 9
|
Course code
AUXX1019
|
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.
How to apply
FAQs
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat 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 (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
- Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights 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 our Academic calendar.
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.