Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Media and Communication majoring in Screen Studies

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BMECO

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$41,300

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

115730K

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 qualifications

International 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?

Lights, camera, action! From the magic of silent films to the era of streaming services, this degree explores how screens have shaped our culture and influenced society. Unravel the mysteries behind your favourite films, whether you’re a cinephile or a binge-watcher and discover the rich history and exciting future of screen media.

This degree will introduce you to key concepts in media and communication theories. You’ll gain the skills needed to critically evaluate film texts and industries, guided by industry experts. Understand how pop culture, world events and trending topics influence what we see on the screen.

Study our Bachelor of Media and Communication majoring in Screen Studies and start building a foundation in film and media history, readying yourself for professional practice.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Media and Communication majoring in Screen Studies examines the rich history of moving pictures and their evolution into today’s rapidly changing screen cultures - covering everything from silent films to streaming services.

You’ll explore Asian cinema, film genres and global art cinemas, broadening your scope to all aspects of the diverse field. Learn a range of techniques used in screen mediums that influence audience reaction and viewership.

Core courses will help you build a strong foundation in theoretical, historical and critical approaches to analysing screen texts. Use pop culture references, world events and trending topics to shape your analysis and predict the future of our screens. Couple this major with advanced concepts in media and communication to build a well-rounded background for future career opportunities.

Pursue work in the media and entertainment industry equipped with effective communication skills and knowledge in traditional and emerging media landscapes.

Key features

Learn the skills to adapt your writing abilities for different platforms and audiences.
Become a critical thinker when evaluating film texts and industries.
Build a strong understanding of theoretical, historical and critical approaches used in analysing screen texts.
Discover global art cinemas including Hollywood, German expressionism and French New Wave.
Uncover the force that is Asian cinema – examining themes of nationalism and globalisation.
Go behind the scenes of the Adelaide Film Festival and investigate the curation and exhibition of films.

What you'll learn

In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in how to effectively engage with a range of audiences through courses in media and communication theories. Explore content creation concepts and the systems, processes and history of digital media. Your major will then take you into the world of cinema and its significance in our everyday lives.

Begin your major with courses exploring the impact of Hollywood on the history of traditional cinema. You’ll also study European film movements, uncovering the contemporary trends they employ and their contribution to global art cinema production. Discover the driving force of Asian cinema, marked by its reflection of themes in localisation, nationalism and globalisation. Encounter a range of contemporary approaches to screen studies including genre, gender and sexuality and key movements in Australian history.

Throughout your degree, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake collaborative projects with industry. You’ll complete a media and communication project with a real client, to build your future employability and professional development skills.

Assessments in this degree are designed with a practical approach, to showcase the breadth of your knowledge. You’ll demonstrate your skills through a variety of media presentations as well as essays and reports.

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
Immersive Media
Media Cultures
Screen Production
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 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 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name The Cinema of Hollywood	Course code MDIA1003	Units 6
Course name Global Art Cinemas	Course code MDIA1011	Units 6
Course name Film Genres	Course code MDIA2010	Units 6
Course name Asian Cinemas	Course code MDIA2011	Units 6
Course name Screening Gender and Sexuality	Course code MDIA2018	Units 6
Course name Contemporary Approaches to Screen Studies	Course code MDIA3008	Units 6
Course name Australia on Screen	Course code MDIA3010	Units 6
Course name Film Festival Cultures	Course code SOCI3001	Units 6

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 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

As an Adelaide University graduate, you’ll be well prepared to take advantage of local and global opportunities in screen studies. The relationships you build through internships and projects will mean you will be connected to industry from the moment you graduate.

You might find yourself writing for large publications and online news sources as a film critic, dissecting and evaluating new films. You could become an influential cultural critic shaping the way audiences understand and engage with media. You may even work as a production assistant, playing a crucial role in the smooth running of a production by performing a wide range of tasks to support the cast, crew, and production team.

Careers you might wish to pursue also include: 

Writer
Film festival curator
Film archivist
Entertainment journalist
Production manager
Production assistant.

There are also many other industries where your communication skills and screen knowledge are highly valued. These include arts and cultural institutions, government, non-profit sector and advertising and marketing.

Industry trends

The Australian cinema industry is one of the largest in the world in terms of revenue. The Australian Government has recently announced that streaming giants - such as Netflix, Disney and Amazon Prime - will be required to invest in making at least 20% more local Australian content from mid-2024 (ABC News, 2023). With the rise of content portraying more meaningful stories and the resurgence of reboots, your skills in critical evaluation and audience reaction will make you an asset to film and media companies.

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.

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.

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. 

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: