Course overview
In a complex and changing world, effective communication is one of the most powerful tools to connect with people, pursue truth and inspire change. When you study a Bachelor of Communication at Deakin, you will learn how to craft content that resonates with your audience across print, digital, audio and video platforms. Whether you’re breaking a critical news story, writing a press release, creating a national campaign or running a high-profile event, you will create persuasive messages that move people to action.
You will develop specialised industry skills, with the option to major in advertising, digital and social media, journalism or public relations.
Along with your major, you will personalise your degree with minors in complementary study areas, like integrated communication, creative advertising, photojournalism, Indigenous studies and more. You might also choose a second major from the School of Communication and Creative Arts from animation to theatre to interactive and UX design.
Want to turn your passion for words into a meaningful career?
Learn how the principles of ethical communication and technology apply in the modern media landscape and develop the critical thinking and practical production skills to target key audiences effectively. Harness your passion for creativity, communication, and visual language to shape public opinion and thrive across a wide range of roles in the rapidly evolving media and communications sector.
How we communicate has the unique power to connect, teach and inspire change. When you study a Bachelor of Communication at Deakin you will master your craft, utilising creative practice and technology to shift public perception and make an impact on the world around you. You will explore and utilise different communication mediums, developing specialist skills on your journey to becoming a well-rounded and in-demand communications professional.
As technology and new trends transform culture, organisations and the media landscape, you will be encouraged to explore new mediums and utilise the latest technology to create high-impact content.
You will learn what the modern media industry looks like, executing digital strategies with the latest communication technologies. Some of the key areas you will explore:
- implementing social and digital media content strategies
- how to engage audiences with podcasts and videos
- strategic communication planning for advertising, digital and public relations
- campaigns copywriting and ideation
- creating inspiring campaigns or events and managing reputations
Our accomplished industry practitioners will inspire and support you on your journey towards building a sustainable creative career doing what you love. You will spend your days learning in speciality spaces – from our industry-standard newsroom to the studio – shining a light on stories that matter.
The combination of practical assessments, industry events and internship opportunities mean you will graduate with a portfolio of work and a strong network ready to thrive in your future career.
You will be supported by Deakin to design your internship. Choose from 600+ employers or craft your own
Learn and develop the leadership skills and entrepreneurial mindset to manage projects and drive engagement with audiences.
Our flexible approach allows you to personalise your learning to your interests and future career and study in a way that suits you. Feel encouraged to fit your learning in with your busy life, whether you want to slow down or speed up your studies, study on-campus or online.
Study a Bachelor of Communication and work towards a future career that challenges and excites you
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 21 June 2026
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 3 2026 close 18 October 2026
VTAC entries are closed.
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Communication
- Year
2026 course information
- VTAC code
Communication: 1400311411 - Regional Access Scheme - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication: 1400311381 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication: 1400511381 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication: 1400611381 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Advertising major): 1400511531- Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Advertising major): 1400611531 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Digital and Social Media major): 1400511541 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Digital and Social Media major): 1400611541 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Journalism major): 1400311551 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Journalism major): 1400511551 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Journalism major): 1400611551 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Public Relations major): 1400311561 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Public Relations major): 1400511561 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Communication (Public Relations major): 1400611561 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- A318
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 109272D Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
GAIN VITAL INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE AT THE #1 VICTORIAN UNI FOR GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Communication, you must pass 24 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- 1 credit points of Thematic core units
- 3 credit points of Employability sequence units
- one of:
- 2 majors (8 credit points each). At least one major must be chosen from the Communication majors
- 1 major (8 credit points) from the Communication majors, plus 1 minor (4 credit points)
- remaining credit points which may comprise of:
- 1 additional minor
- open elective units
- a combination of the above
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Plus 1 credit point from:
Plus 1 credit point from:
All Bachelor of Communication students are required to complete at least one major sequences from the following list:
Bachelor of Communication major sequences
Students may choose to complete a second major sequence from the following list:
School of Communication and Creative Arts major sequences
- Animation
- Communication Design
- Dance
- Interactive and UX^ Design
- Photography
- Screen Development
- Screen Production
- Theatre
- Visual Arts
- Writing
^ UX refers to User Experience
Please check the rules of each major sequence to see which units you need to complete to achieve the required credit points.
Refer to the details of each major sequence availability and sequence notes relating to incompatibility.
- 2D practices in the visual arts
- 3D practices in the visual arts
- animation and motion graphics
- brand design
- creative advertising
- creative writing
- dance
- design for social media
- digital media
- film studies
- gender and sexuality studies
- indigenous studies*
- interactive design
- journalism
- literature
- photography
- photojournalism
- professional writing
- public relations
- public relations strategy
- publication design
- screen production
- scriptwriting
- social media
- strategic advertising
- theatre
- technical production
- UX design^
- visual effects and virtual production
^ UX refers to User Experience
Please check the rules of each minor sequence to see which units you need to complete to achieve the required credit points.
Students are advised to refer to the details of each major or minor sequence for availability as some may be offered in campus and/or online mode only.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
- Start date: November
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Online
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
More skills, more careers
Earn two degrees, faster, at the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment. With a double degree, you can combine a communication degree with commerce or politics, philosophy and economics. Save time, reduce costs and unlock more career opportunities.
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Participation requirements
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
Prepare for your future by getting real world experience and the employability skills to succeed, while completing your degree. The Employability Stream is tailored to support you to be future ready. Deakin’s suite of Work Integrated Learning programs can connect you with internships, social impact programs and opportunities to extend your skills in settings across the globe.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any Business, Product Design And Technology, Economics, any English, Media, Interactive Digital Media, Psychology, Visual Communication Design or Extended Investigation equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Access and equity
Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Watch Brad's story
Brad works as a digital coordinator for the Geelong footy club. He snaps, produces, creates, writes, interviews - capturing all live and behind the scenes action. He's a graduate of Deakin's Bachelor of Communication majoring in digital media.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$16,618 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose, as each unit has its own cost. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year. You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options on our Current students fees website or estimate your tuition fees.
Scholarship options
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you’ll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply through VTAC
Applications for Trimester 1, 2027 will open on 3 August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Communication with our pathways finder.
Further studies are available at Honours and Postgraduate level. Many students choose to enter into the Bachelor of Communication and Creative Arts (Honours) or the Master of Communication.
Articulated courses:
Career outcomes
Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment.* With us you can step-into your future with confidence. With humans constantly processing more information than ever before, communication plays a pivotal role in shaping what people care about. Clear and compelling communication is an influential tool that is highly sought-after across sectors and industries, impacting everything from public opinion, education, politics and social justice issues.
When you study a Bachelor of Communication, you walk away with a diverse range of in-demand and highly transferrable skills that employers are looking for.
You will have the critical skills to work across industries, worldwide. Your future career could see you working in private, public, or non-profit sectors, be it a newsroom, a top agency or digital start-up, or even as an entrepreneurial self-starter. Our graduates go on to excel in roles such as:
- account manager
- advertising art director
- brand specialist
- copywriter
- digital creative
- digital marketer or media specialist
- editor
- journalist
- marketing communications strategist
- media researcher or planner
- public relations professional
- publisher
- social media manager
For more information go to DeakinTALENT.
*Australian Graduate Survey 2010–2015, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2016–2023, Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT). The #1 graduate employment is based on overall employment for domestic undergraduates of Victorian universities, 4–6 months after course completion, with an equal overall employment rate with Monash University.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations Major) will be undergoing accreditation by the Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA). Graduates will then be eligible for accelerated membership of the PRIA, ensuring you remain connected and up to date with current industry standards.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Evaluate and apply knowledge of media and communication theories, frameworks, ecosystems, and creative practices to provide solutions to real-world contexts. |
| Communication | Work creatively, and professionally in written, oral, and multimedia formats to communicate with stakeholders, to achieve defined outcomes and to engage target media audiences. |
| Digital literacy | Locate, gather, synthesise, produce, and publish information using industry-standard software across a range of media forms and platforms to inform and engage diverse audiences. |
| Critical thinking | Exercise intellectual curiosity, reflexive self-awareness, and ethical judgement to critically analyse and evaluate data and information to inform decisions about communication and media industry practices. |
| Problem solving | Respond to complex and unpredictable challenges and situations that arise in a professional context and devise pragmatic and creative media and communication solutions that are strategic, legal, and ethical. |
| Self-management | Recognise and exhibit actions consistent with principles of autonomy, responsibility and accountability required to work effectively as a communication professional in a range of contexts. |
| Teamwork | Collaborate respectfully and effectively in a timely way with people from different backgrounds and disciplines to foster successful relationships and achieve shared goals. |
| Global citizenship | Apply relevant industry frameworks to inform ethical decision making that is respectful and inclusive of Indigenous voices and diverse cultures, and demonstrates an awareness of civic and social responsibility. |
Approved by Faculty Board February 2022
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
