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.
Why Bachelor of Media and Communication?
Communication is at the core of our connected and globalised world, and strategic communication concepts are used by individuals and organisations in all sectors to develop awareness, influence behaviour and build reputation.
Our Bachelor of Media and Communication with a major in Strategic Communication will empower you to develop critical knowledge and skills in the creation and execution of strategic communication. Draw on public relations and communication theories and apply them to real-life settings.
Study alongside award-winning academics in industry-focused courses, undertake a professional experience and gain the skills to shape the world through communication. You’ll graduate with the expertise to thrive in a variety of media and strategic communication roles.
Overview
Our Bachelor of Media and Communication majoring in Strategic Communication will equip you with the knowledge and skills to be a professional and strategic communicator.
Explore strategic concepts and execute real-world projects that will prepare you for a career in a wide range of industries. Study media and communication theory to develop a deeper understanding of how to apply your critical and creative skills for future success.
Take key courses in media management, professional writing, stakeholder engagement and social media engagement. Study the application of crucial strategic communication concepts in various sectors. Explore the systems, processes and history of digital communication. You’ll also develop skills in digital media, content creation and social media analytics.
Undertake a third-year professional experience that will put your knowledge and skills into practice. Your studies will lay the foundation that will enable you to develop professional communication strategies that are crucial for a range of sectors.
Key features
Develop in-depth knowledge of strategic communication concepts.- Study courses in media management and strategy development.
- Build skills in public relations theory and apply them to real-world business problems.
- Learn effective professional writing conventions to craft engaging texts for media and industry.
- Examine theoretical perspectives and practical application of issues, risk and crisis management.
- Gain professional experience and industry knowledge.
What you'll learn
Your first year will introduce you to key theories, concepts and strategies for building images, brands and narratives. You’ll develop theoretical knowledge and professional skills to manage strategic communication on behalf of organisations or individuals. Study the conventions of effective professional writing, and their application to writing for communication texts.
You’ll study courses in writing for strategic communication. Gain advanced knowledge of social media content planning and creation to use in identifying a brand. Build the applied skills required to develop and implement media and communication campaigns for a range of industries, from fashion to finance. Learn the skills needed to determine the most effective method for delivering a message.
Designed in collaboration with industry experts, our curriculum ensures you will learn the most relevant and up-to-date material. In your final year, you'll immerse yourself in the dynamic industry environment through a professional experience project, working alongside award-winning academics and industry professionals to hone your strategic and creative storytelling skills.
Assessments in this degree are based on a hands-on approach. You’ll apply your knowledge on practical projects, produce essays and complete assessments using non-traditional forms of media such as podcasts.
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
- Extended Realities Design and Production
- Media Cultures
- Screen Production
- Screen Studies.
What courses you'll study
You're required to complete 144 units to complete your degree, across a mix of core courses, elective and work integrated learning. A list of indicative courses is provided below.
Complete exactly 78 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Key Concepts in Media and Communication | MARK1003 | 6 |
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Media and Communication Project | MDIA2901 | 6 |
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Digital Platforms | MDIA1001 | 6 |
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Content Creation | MARK2101 | 6 |
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Media Law, Policy and Ethics | MARK2003 | 6 |
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Research Methods | MARK2002 | 6 |
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Promotional Communication | MARK2102 | 6 |
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Media Industries in Transition | CREA3012 | 6 |
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Strategic Planning for Media and Communication | MARK3006 | 6 |
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Advanced Concepts in Media and Communication | CREA3023 | 6 |
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UG Common Core 1 | AUXX1000 | 6 |
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UG Common Core 2 | AUXX2000 | 6 |
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UG Common Core 3 | AUXX3000 | 6 |
Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Media and Communication Project | MDIA2901 | 6 |
|
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Internship or Project | CREA3026 | 6 |
Complete exactly 54 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Elective 1 | AUXX1011 | 6 |
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Elective 2 | AUXX1012 | 6 |
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Elective 3 | AUXX1013 | 6 |
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Elective 4 | AUXX1014 | 6 |
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Elective 5 | AUXX1015 | 6 |
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Elective 6 | AUXX1016 | 6 |
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Elective 7 | AUXX1017 | 6 |
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Elective 8 | AUXX1018 | 6 |
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Elective 9 | AUXX1019 | 6 |
Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
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Introduction to Strategic Communication | MARK1100 | 6 |
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Image, Brand and Narrative | MARK1005 | 6 |
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Writing for Strategic Communication | MDIA2000 | 6 |
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Media Relations | MDIA2009 | 6 |
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Digital and Social Media Management | MDIA2005 | 6 |
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Issues, Crisis and Stakeholder Management | MDIA3006 | 6 |
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Strategic Communication in Practice | MARK3004 | 6 |
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Advanced Strategic Communication Theory and Practice | MDIA3007 | 6 |
Career outcomes
Strategic communication is purposeful communication. Communication professionals are integral in helping organisations build internal cohesion, communicate effectively and establish brand trust externally.
You’ll graduate with a dynamic range of career opportunities to become a forward-thinking professional. Your knowledge and skills will be highly regarded in all sectors including health, environment, energy, arts, justice, business and sports.
You may work as a communication manager for a fashion brand, building and strengthening brand identity, conducting background research and understanding audience behaviour. You might become a public relations consultant in an advertising agency, leading a team to bring ideas to life and shape the creative direction of projects and campaigns. Perhaps you’ll dive into the world of politics as a Media Advisor, researching policies and foreign relations for government and political candidates to win elections.
Careers you might consider include:
- Social media manager
- Public relations consultant
- Content creator
- Communication advisor
- Agency account executive
- Media advisor
- Stakeholder engagement specialist.
Industry trends
The Australian Government’s Labour Market Insights (2024) predicts a strong 11.4% future growth for advertising and marketing professionals by 2026. Developing a career in strategic communication will lead to a highly successful and rewarding professional future in various sectors.
How to apply
FAQs
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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.
