Why Bachelor of Communication?
Transform ideas into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Become a skilled architect of dialogue, crafting compelling campaigns that captivate the digital landscape.
Picture yourself as a social media maestro, orchestrating impactful messaging for government, industry, or non-profits. Or work as a public relations expert steering an organisation through the storm of a crisis.
Gain real-world experience while learning to connect, persuade and inspire. Whether that’s writing articles that spark conversations in the community or designing engaging content for a travel website – your way with words can shape perceptions and drive change.
Your future as a communication expert awaits.
Overview
Develop the skills to craft compelling messages for a variety of print and digital media in our 100% online Bachelor of Communication.
Explore key areas like public relations, journalism and social media while honing your abilities in content creation and strategic communication. You’ll develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for effective communication management.
Hands-on learning is a key feature of this degree. You’ll engage in practical projects, such as developing comprehensive communication plans tailored to a range of platforms, contexts and audiences – giving you invaluable experience before graduation.
With this degree you’ll be ready to influence audiences and drive change across industries, enhancing organisational success and community engagement.
Graduate ready to pursue diverse roles such as a communication officer, digital media manager or public relations coordinator, confident in your ability to make a lasting impact.
Key features
Study with the flexibility of 100% online learning. - Develop effective communication strategies for traditional and emerging digital media.
- Specialise in high-demand fields like social media, content creation, and journalism.
- Enhance critical and analytical thinking for strategic planning and communication management.
- Learn from industry experts and academics with real-world knowledge.
- Apply your communication skills in practical, real-world scenarios.
What you'll learn
In the Bachelor of Communication at Adelaide University, you’ll master the art of effective communication for multiple platforms.
You can align your learning to specific interests by selecting from various electives over the three years.
In the first year, the foundation is built with core courses that introduce key concepts and theories.
You’ll explore the fundamentals of communication through courses such as:
- Introduction to social media
- Public relations theory and practice
- Intercultural communication.
These courses help develop essential skills in news reporting and professional communication, setting the stage for advanced study.
The focus changes in your second year to practical application and content creation. You’ll study courses like:
- Content creation for media
- Feature writing
- Media law and ethics
- Communication research methods.
Your third year includes advanced courses where you apply your knowledge to real-world challenges.
Promotional communication and integrated communication planning prepare you for strategic roles in advertising and marketing. Additionally, you’ll learn about social media engagement and web design, mastering the digital tools necessary for a successful career after graduation.
Explore digital photography and radio and audio journalism for further specialisation in the communications field.
Throughout the degree, you’ll have hands-on experience with projects and collaborations, preparing you to step confidently into diverse roles within the industry.
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 114 units for all Core courses, and
- 30 units for Electives
Complete 114 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
UO Intercultural Communication
|
Course code
COMM1006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Communication and Media
|
Course code
COMM1008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Introduction to Social Media
|
Course code
COMM1009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Professional and Technical Communication
|
Course code
COMM1010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Digital Photography
|
Course code
JOUR1008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO News Reporting
|
Course code
JOUR1009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Public Relations: Theory and Practice
|
Course code
MARK1014
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Introduction to Digital Media
|
Course code
MDIA1013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Writing for Digital Media
|
Course code
COMM2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Communication Research Methods
|
Course code
COMM2005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Content Creation for Media
|
Course code
COMM2006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Media Law and Ethics
|
Course code
JOUR2005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Radio and Audio Journalism
|
Course code
JOUR2008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Communication Management in Practice
|
Course code
COMM3002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Integrated Communication Planning
|
Course code
COMM3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Promotional Communication: Advertising, Publicity and Marketing
|
Course code
COMM3004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Social Media Engagement
|
Course code
COMM3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Feature Writing
|
Course code
JOUR3004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Web Design
|
Course code
MDIA3011
|
Units
6
|
Complete 30 units comprising:
- 12 units from Free electives, and
- 18 units for all Program electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
UO Introduction to Video Production
|
Course code
INFO1024
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Marketing Principles: Trading and Exchange
|
Course code
MARK1013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Digital Marketing
|
Course code
MARK3013
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
With a communication degree you could become a communication officer, delivering key messages and managing media relations. Or you might take on a content creator role, crafting engaging copy for social media, blogs and websites.
Maybe you’ll specialise in digital media, building and executing strategies as a social media manager. There are also opportunities to work as a media liaison officer, coordinating press events and managing media inquiries.
As a graduate you’ll be able to take on a variety of roles in different organisations. From healthcare, financial services, IT, community organisations to not-for-profit and government, the opportunities are endless.
Industry trends
The communications industry continues to evolve with exciting new opportunities emerging (Communication & Public Relations Australia). Demand is rising for professionals skilled in cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). There’s a growing focus on data-driven strategies and personalised content delivery, making communication more targeted and impactful.
The continued expansion of digital platforms and social media tools is creating innovative roles in online community management and digital engagement. This transformation offers endless possibilities for those ready to shape the future of communication.
Ask Adelaide University
Your study experience and support
Studying 100% online with Adelaide University means joining a dynamic community of learners – all supported by dedicated teams committed to your success. From day one to graduation, you’ll have access to comprehensive academic, student and technical support teams to ensure you get the most out of your online learning journey.
Student support services
Need help with enrolments, managing your study load, or setting your academic goals? Our student support team is here to assist. They’re your first point of contact for advice and are available seven days a week, including out-of-hours and on weekends. Get the help you need – when it suits you.
As an online student, you’ll also have access to our specialised on-campus student support services. Whether you’re looking for career advice, health and wellbeing support, international student assistance, accessibility services, or something else, we’ve got you covered. Visit the Support webpage to explore the services available.
Online academic support
From understanding course content to tackling assignments, writing, and referencing, our expert academics are here to guide you. Available seven days a week, they’ll provide personalised support to help you progress through your studies.
Tech support
We’ve got your back when it comes to technology. Our IT support team is available 24/7 to resolve any tech challenges you might face. With fast response times and tailored solutions, we’ll ensure nothing stands in your way. You’ll also enjoy free access to software downloads required for your program.
Study hours
Adelaide University’s 100% online programs offer the flexibility to fit your lifestyle. You can engage with course materials at any time that works for you – there’s no need to log in at set times. To stay on track, we recommend setting aside 10 to 15 hours per week for each course, but you can adapt your schedule and your study load to suit your needs.
Assessment
All assessments, including exams (if required) are conducted 100% online – so you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or sit an exam. Depending on your program, your assessments might include:
- An industry-relevant project or case study
- An online presentation
- Essays and reports.
