For more information about studying the Bachelor of Communication
Program handbook
Description
Communication is a global industry with significant cultural and commercial impact, and communication professionals provide text, vision and sound-based content for organisations, individuals and institutions that seek to represent themselves and others in the world. Our new Communication degree program prepares students to connect theory and practice, collaborate with peers and experts within local and global communities, and effect positive change by creating and designing industry-focused solutions to big issues.
Students have the option of completing a single or a double major in this program. Students completing a double major can choose either a double major from the Communication Major options (Double Major Pathway B); or one Communication Major and one School of Creative Industries Major (Double Major Pathway C) from the options listed in the handbook. The most ideal combinations of majors that reflect industry creative practice for Communication Graduates are listed below;
Double Major Pathway B
- Media Arts Production and Public Relations
- Media Arts Production and News Media
- News Media and Public Relations
Double Major Pathway C
- Media Arts Production and Animation & Interaction
- Media Arts Production and Creative Arts
- Public Relations and Graphic Design & Illustration
This program can be completed in three years. However, students completing either of the double Major options, should be aware that due to course availability the duration of their program may be extended. Students undertaking a double Major option are advised to consult with their Program Advisor regarding their academic program.
Program learning outcomes
On successful completion of the program students will have:
- A broad and coherent body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in one or more disciplines as a basis for independent lifelong learning
- Cognitive skills to review critically, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge
- Cognitive and technical skills to demonstrate a broad understanding of knowledge with depth in some areas
- Cognitive and creative skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence
- Communication skills to present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas
- Demonstrated the application of knowledge and skills with initiative and judgement in planning, problem solving and decision making in professional practice and/or scholarship
- Demonstrated the application of knowledge and skills to adapt knowledge and skills in diverse contexts
- Demonstrated the application of knowledge and skills with responsibility and accountability for own learning and professional practice and in collaboration with others within broad parameters
- Demonstrated capacity to communicate effectively through text, vision, sound and interactive media forms.
- A critical understanding of methodologies and theories relevant to communication practice, research and creative endeavour.
- Critically engaged with social, cultural, political, ethical and legal issues through the understanding of practice in local, national and international communication and media industries.
- Developed work-ready skills showing appropriate levels of independent initiative, team work and judgement in professional communication environments.
Details
Information correct as at | Mar 28, 2024 10:55 pm |
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Program code | 11496 |
AQF level | Level 7 Bachelor Degree |
Locations and UAC codes |
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Selection Rank | |
Assumed knowledge | English (any level) |
Term type | Semesters and Trimesters |
Fees |
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Relevant University rules and policies |
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CRICOS Code | 000326M |
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Admission information
Admission requirements
Eligibility for admission to this program is based on applicants meeting the minimum selection rank, or satisfying the requirements for an approved admission scheme.
The University of Newcastle accepts a range of qualifications to determine eligibility for admission. These include, but are not limited to, Australian or overseas senior secondary qualifications (such as the HSC), prior tertiary studies, prior TAFE/VET studies, and completed enabling programs.
For further information on the pathways that are available to you, please refer to:
English Language Requirements
All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement. Further information regarding English language proficiency requirements can be found at the English Language Proficiency for Admission Policy here.
- IELTS Overall Minimum: 6.5
- IELTS Sub Test Minimum: 6
Credit transfer
If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution, or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, visit the University's credit website for more information on applying for credit.
Credit may be granted for studies completed at another institution if they were completed within the previous 8 years. Credit will be granted by the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Education and Arts in accordance with the relevant policies approved by the University.
Academic requirements for program completion
Total units required
240 units
Program duration
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent up to 8 years maximum.
International students studying this program on campus are required to enrol full time to comply with their student visa requirements and complete their study in the standard minimum program duration. International students requiring enrolment advice should review the program plan corresponding to the semester and year of commencement and can contact their Program Advisor at ProgramAdvice@newcastle.edu.au
Program requirements
The Bachelor of Communication requires students to successfully complete 240 units, which is comprised of:
- 80 units of core courses;
- 10 units from the Career-ready placement course list;
- One 80 unit Communication major. Students may choose from:
- Media Arts Production
- News Media
- Public Relations
- 80 units of electives. Refer to the pathway information below*.
Students must complete a minimum of 40 units at each level (1000, 2000, 3000).
Students must not exceed 100 units at 1000 level.
Students must only complete courses that form part of the program and must not complete more than 240 units.
PSB Singapore students: Students studying at PSB Singapore must enrol in CIND3000 for their Career-ready placement course.
*Pathway Information
Students must complete at least one Communication major sequence to fulfil the requirements of their program.
All majors comprise of 20 units at 1000 level, 20 units at 2000 level, and 40 units at 3000 level. Students may utilise their elective courses to undertake a major pathway, detailed below. Students must ensure that each major has 60 units of unique courses.
- Single major pathway A: one 80 unit Communication major, and 80 units of electives.
- Double major pathway B**: two 80 unit Communication majors.
- Double major pathway C***: one 80 unit Communication major, and one 80 unit School of Humanities, Creative Industries and Social Sciences major.
**Double major pathway B
CMNS1090 and CMNS1240 are common compulsory courses across the Communication majors, students must undertake an additional 20 units chosen from the course lists or electives.
***School of Humanities, Creative Industries and Social Sciences Majors
- Animation and Interaction
- Creative Arts
- Graphic Design and Illustration
PSB Singapore students: Double major pathway C is not available at this location. Please refer to the Program Plan for Singapore, ensuring you select the year you commenced your studies to correctly identify the appropriate courses.
Program planner
Current students program planner
Current students can plan their program using Program Planner.
Prospective student degree planner
If you're a prospective student considering studying this degree take a look at My Degree Planner to see what your study journey will look like.
Additional documents
- 2019-2021 Transition_Arrangements 229.5 KB
- 2020-2021 Transition_Arrangements 250.0 KB
- 2023 Transition Arrangements 137.4 KB
Transition arrangements
Program Revisions 2023
From Semester 1, 2023 there are changes to the core course requirements for the Bachelor of Communication program.
- • If you have not yet completed CMNS1000, you are required to complete CMNS1100.If you have completed CMNS1000, this will continue to count towards the core course program requirements and you cannot complete CMNS1100.• If you have not yet completed DESN2002, you are required to complete CMNS2000. If you have completed DESN2002, this will continue to count towards the core course program requirements and you cannot complete CMNS2000.• If you have not yet completed CIND2003, you are required to complete CMNS2510.If you have completed CIND2003, this will continue to count towards the core course program requirements and you cannot complete CMNS2510.• If you have not yet completed CIND3000, you will still be able to complete CIND3000. This course will remain available until Semester 2, 2024. It’s recommended that this course be completed prior to Semester 2, 2024. If you have completed CIND3000, this will continue to count towards the core course program requirements and you cannot complete CIND3510.
Screen and Cultural Studies
From 2023, Screen and Cultural Studies (SCRN) courses replace the equivalent Film, Media and Cultural Studies (FMCS) courses from 2023 onwards. Courses completed prior to 2023 (FMCS courses) will continue to count towards program requirements. Please refer to the 2023 Transition Arrangements in the Additional Documents section for more details. Any further questions should be directed to your program advisor.
Program Revisions 2019-2021
This program was revised in 2019, 2020 and 2021, please refer to the 2021 Transition Arrangements from 2020 and 2021 Transition Arrangements from 2019 in the Additional Documents section for more details. Any further questions should be directed to your program advisor.
Program structure
Students can plan their program using Program Planner. It is recommended students review the program handbook in conjunction with using Program Planner.
Advanced course filters
Courses that are currently unavailable are hidden by default. You can show them by adjusting the advanced course filters above, or clicking the 'show all' links below each section.
Core Courses
Complete the following core courses to fulfil the requirements of this program. | |||
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Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
CIND1004 | Creative Collaborations |
| 10 units |
CMNS1100 | Foundations of Media Production |
| 10 units |
CMNS1234 | Media and Communication Concepts |
| 10 units |
CMNS2000 | Digital Media Engagement |
| 10 units |
CMNS2510 | Global Media Industries |
| 10 units |
CMNS2600 | Audience Participation and Interaction |
| 10 units |
CMNS3310 | Communication, Creativity and Cultural Production |
| 10 units |
Career-ready placement Course List
Choose 10 units from the following courses. Please note: Students studying at PSB Singapore must enrol in CIND3000. | |||
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Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
CIND3000 | Entrepreneurship |
| 10 units |
CIND3510 | Studio Q |
| 10 units |
COMM Majors
Students must complete at least one of the Communication Majors. Students have the option of completing a second Major, chosen from either the Communication Major options or from the School of Humanities, Creative Industries and Social Sciences Major options.
Media Arts Production
Compulsory | |||
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Complete the following 20 units of compulsory courses. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
CMNS1090 | Media Storytelling |
| 10 units |
CMNS1240 | Commercial Social Media Production |
| 10 units |
Course List | |||
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Choose 60 units from the following course list; 20 units at 2000 level and 40 units at 3000 level. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
CMNS2016 | Interactive Storytelling |
| 10 units |
CMNS2035 | Cinematography |
| 10 units |
CMNS2130 | Sound Production |
| 10 units |
CMNS2180 | Screenwriting |
| 10 units |
CMNS2900 | Documentary Film Making |
| 10 units |
CIND3003 | Creative Industries Professional Project |
| 20 units |
CMNS3440 | Short Film Production |
| 10 units |
CMNS3490 | Experimental Media |
| 10 units |
CMNS3560 | Gamified Media |
| 10 units |
CMNS3620 | Virtual Drama and Documentary | Not currently offered | 10 units |
CMNS3999 | Advanced Media Production |
| 10 units |
News Media
Compulsory | |||
---|---|---|---|
Complete the following 20 units of compulsory courses. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
CMNS1090 | Media Storytelling |
| 10 units |
CMNS1240 | Commercial Social Media Production |
| 10 units |
Course List | |||
---|---|---|---|
Choose 60 units from the following course list; 20 units at 2000 level and 40 units at 3000 level. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
CMNS2280 | Feature Writing |
| 10 units |
CMNS2320 | News Media |
| 10 units |
CMNS2700 | Create Your Own Business |
| 10 units |
CIND3003 | Creative Industries Professional Project |
| 20 units |
CMNS3150 | Podcasting and Radio |
| 10 units |
CMNS3333 | Multiplatform Journalism |
| 10 units |
CMNS3470 | Data Visualisation in Journalism |
| 10 units |
CMNS3666 | Contemporary Journalism |
| 10 units |
Public Relations
Compulsory | |||
---|---|---|---|
Complete the following 20 units of compulsory courses. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
CMNS1090 | Media Storytelling |
| 10 units |
CMNS1240 | Commercial Social Media Production |
| 10 units |
Course List | |||
---|---|---|---|
Choose 60 units from the following course list; 20 units at 2000 level and 40 units at 3000 level. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
CMNS2140 | Principles of Public Relations |
| 10 units |
CMNS2530 | Strategic Communication |
| 10 units |
CMNS2700 | Create Your Own Business |
| 10 units |
CIND3003 | Creative Industries Professional Project |
| 20 units |
CMNS3520 | Public Affairs |
| 10 units |
CMNS3540 | Public Relations Campaigns |
| 10 units |
CMNS3737 | Social Media Listening and Monitoring |
| 10 units |
Media Studies
Course List | |||
---|---|---|---|
Choose 80 units from the following course list; 20 units at 1000 level , 20 units at 2000 level and 40 units at 3000 level. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
CMNS1090 | Media Storytelling |
| 10 units |
SCRN1000 | Media Literacy |
| 10 units |
SCRN1200 | Film and Television Studies |
| 10 units |
SOCA1010 | Society and Culture: an Introduction to Sociology |
| 10 units |
SCRN2000 | Media in Transition: Industry, Money, Power | Not currently offered | 10 units |
SCRN2100 | Popular Music and Culture |
| 10 units |
SCRN2200 | Popular Culture and Society |
| 10 units |
CIND3510 | Studio Q |
| 10 units |
SCRN3000 | Social Media and Digital Culture |
| 10 units |
SCRN3100 | Peak TV: Texts, Industry, Culture |
| 10 units |
SCRN3300 | Contemporary World Cinema |
| 10 units |
SCRN3500 | Screening Sex and Gender | Not currently offered | 10 units |
SOCI Majors
Animation and Interaction
Compulsory | |||
---|---|---|---|
Complete the following compulsory course. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
DESN1031 | Digital Practices in Visual Communication |
| 10 units |
Course List | |||
---|---|---|---|
Choose 70 units from the following course list (with a maximum of 10 units at the 1000 level and a minimum of 20 units at 2000 level and 40 units at 3000 level). | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
DESN1331 | Character Design |
| 10 units |
DESN1600 | Interaction and UX Design Fundamentals |
| 10 units |
DESN1801 | Animation Thinking |
| 10 units |
DESN2600 | Designing for Game Play |
| 10 units |
DESN2610 | Experience Design Studio | Not currently offered | 10 units |
DESN2801 | Animation Process |
| 10 units |
DESN2802 | Animation Production | Not currently offered | 10 units |
DESN2804 | 3D Motion |
| 10 units |
CIND3003 | Creative Industries Professional Project |
| 20 units |
DESN3600 | Experimental Interfaces and Tangible Interaction Design |
| 10 units |
DESN3801 | Animation Studio |
| 10 units |
DESN3802 | 3D Environments |
| 10 units |
DESN3803 | Digital Compositing and Visual Effects |
| 10 units |
Creative Arts
Compulsory | |||
---|---|---|---|
Complete the following compulsory course. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
DESN1031 | Digital Practices in Visual Communication |
| 10 units |
Course List | |||
---|---|---|---|
Choose 70 units from the following course list (with a maximum of 10 units at the 1000 level and a minimum of 20 units at 2000 level and 40 units at 3000 level). | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
AART1500 | Constructing Images |
| 10 units |
AART1700 | Foundations in Digital Photography |
| 10 units |
DESN1121 | Experimental Design Imaging |
| 10 units |
AART2000 | Australian Contemporary Art in Context | Not currently offered | 10 units |
AART2001 | 3D Prototype to Production |
| 10 units |
CIND2102 | Extended Reality for Creative Practice | Not currently offered | 10 units |
DESN2211 | Visual Narrative |
| 10 units |
AART3000 | Interdisciplinary Studio | Not currently offered | 10 units |
AART3320 | Creative Place Making | Not currently offered | 10 units |
CIND3003 | Creative Industries Professional Project |
| 20 units |
CIND3101 | Manipulating Images |
| 10 units |
Graphic Design and Illustration
Compulsory | |||
---|---|---|---|
Complete the following compulsory course. | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
DESN1031 | Digital Practices in Visual Communication |
| 10 units |
Course List | |||
---|---|---|---|
Choose 70 units from the following course list (with a maximum of 10 units at the 1000 level and a minimum of 20 units at 2000 level and 40 units at 3000 level). | |||
Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
DESN1101 | Typography |
| 10 units |
DESN1200 | Drawing Foundations |
| 10 units |
DESN1600 | Interaction and UX Design Fundamentals |
| 10 units |
CIND2101 | Commercial Studio Photography |
| 10 units |
DESN2011 | Design Futures and Professional Practice |
| 10 units |
DESN2040 | Illustration |
| 10 units |
DESN2060 | Scientific Illustration |
| 10 units |
DESN2221 | Graphic Brand Identities and Spaces |
| 10 units |
CIND3003 | Creative Industries Professional Project |
| 20 units |
DESN3040 | Commercial Illustration |
| 10 units |
DESN3321 | Publication Design |
| 10 units |
DESN3411 | Creative Studio Placement |
| 10 units |
Electives
Electives 80 unit requirement | |
---|---|
Complete 80 units of electives to fulfil the requirements of the program. Electives can be used to extend and complement your core studies with more courses in the same field of study, or from areas that might be of interest to you. Electives can be chosen from all courses available at the University that do not have any other conditions (such as a course requisite) applied to them. | 80 units |
Suggested electives
A full list of courses that are available to study as an elective can be found in the course handbook.
Honours
An Honours year is available to students as a separate program in the form of an additional year to those who meet the entry requirements.
More information about Honours is available here.
Additional information
Through the Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre, students can access a free suite of NUPrep preparation courses as well as Academic Learning Support.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can draw on the assistance and support provided by the Indigenous Student Support and Development service through the Wollotuka Institute.
International students
All International Students enrolled in the program will be provided with an orientation to familiarise them with the rules, expectations, facilities and services offered by the University. Please visit our International Students website to find out more about the support services available to international students.
Additional support
AccessAbility provides advice and reasonable adjustments to Students with a medical or health condition or disability. If you require adjustments to undertake your program, contact the Student Support Advisors - AccessAbility before semester or early in the semester. They will work with the College or School to ensure that this happens in a timely manner.
Please note: All students must fulfil the inherent requirements of the programs and courses they are undertaking. While reasonable adjustments can be made, these adjustments cannot compromise academic integrity. It is the student's responsibility to check all the requirements of courses, and consider the effects of any medical condition or disability on their ability to complete course requirements. More information is available online.
Bachelor of Communication
UAC Code , Program Code 11496
CRICOS Code , Program Code 11496
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UAC Code
Program Code 11496
This criteria is based on a full-time domestic student attending Callaghan campus. Please select your criteria to personalise your study options and your circumstances.
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Duration (FT)
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English proficiency requirements
IELTS overall minimum -
IELTS section minimum -
CRICOS Code
Program Code 11496
This criteria is based on a full-time international student attending Callaghan campus. Please select your criteria to personalise your study options and your circumstances.
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