Key facts
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
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’ll 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’ll create persuasive messages that move people to action.
You’ll develop specialised industry skills, with the option to major in the following areas:
- advertising
- digital and social media
- journalism
- public relations.
Along with your major, you’ll personalise your degree with minors in complementary study areas, like integrated communication, creative advertising, photojournalism, Indigenous studies and more.
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 Communications at Deakin you’ll master your craft, utilising creative practice and technology to shift public perception and make an impact on the world around you. You’ll 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’ll be encouraged to explore new mediums and utilise the latest technology to create high-impact content.
You'll learn what the modern media industry looks like, executing digital strategies with the latest communication technologies. Some of the key areas you’ll 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’ll 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’ll graduate with a portfolio of work and a strong network ready to thrive in your future career. 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.
Read MoreCourse information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Communication
- Year
2023 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?
- 109272D Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Approval status
This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.
Course structure
To qualify for the award of Bachelor of Communication, a student must complete 24 credit points including:
- 3 credit points of communication thematic core units
- 3 credit points of employability sequence units
Plus either:
- 2 major sequences of at least 8 credit points
OR
- 1 major sequence of at least 8 credit points plus 2 minor sequences of at least 4 credit points each
Remaining credit points may be used to undertake elective units.
One major must be taken from the majors offered in the degree in which you are enrolled. The other major and minor sequences may be taken from Bachelor of Creative Arts, Bachelor of Design, or Bachelor of Film Television and Animation major or minor sequences.
Students must also ensure that they have met the following course rules to be eligible to graduate with a Bachelor of Communication:
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3
- Academic Integrity AAI018 Academic Integrity (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
A major or minor sequence is a group of units in a particular area of study taken over the three levels of your course. Each unit is usually worth 1 credit point.
A major sequence is made up of 8 credit points, and a minor sequence is made of 4 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.
6
Communication and Employability core units
16
Major or Minor units
2
Elective units
24
Total
Communication Thematic Core
Employability sequence
Plus 1 credit point from:
Plus 1 credit point from:
Major sequences
| Area of Study | Availability |
| Burwood (Melbourne), Online | |
| Digital and Social Media | Burwood (Melbourne), Online |
| Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Online | |
| Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Online |
Please check the rules of each major 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.
Minor sequences
| Area of Study | Availability |
| Burwood (Melbourne), Online | |
| Burwood (Melbourne), Online | |
| Online | |
| Burwood (Melbourne), Online | |
| Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Online | |
| Burwood (Melbourne) | |
| Public Relations | Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Online |
| Burwood (Melbourne), Online | |
| Burwood (Melbourne), Online |
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.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
Trimester 3 - November
- Start date: November
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Online
The first available intake into this course will be Trimester 1, 2023
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Additional course information
Course duration - additional information
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
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. Click here for more information.
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
Current or recent Year 12
If you are currently studying Year 12 or completed Year 12 in the previous two years and have not attempted higher education or VET/Polytechnic study since, your selection is based on the following.
VCE 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
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection considerations.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Higher education study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of higher education after secondary schooling, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
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 or equivalent, or Certificate IV: or higher, or concurrent Bachelor study.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
Applicants who wish their work and volunteer/other experience to be considered as part of their application for entry are required to submit a personal statement with details of their work and volunteer/other experience, motivation to study and any other factors relevant to their application for the course. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
VET study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
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 or equivalent, or Certificate IV: or higher, or concurrent Bachelor study.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
Applicants who wish their work and volunteer/other experience to be considered as part of their application for entry are required to submit a personal statement with details of their work and volunteer/other experience, motivation to study and any other factors relevant to their application for the course. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago or did not finish Year 12, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
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 or equivalent, or Certificate IV: or higher, or concurrent Bachelor study.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
Applicants who wish their work and volunteer/other experience to be considered as part of their application for entry are required to submit a personal statement with details of their work and volunteer/other experience, motivation to study and any other factors relevant to their application for the course.Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any Business, Product Design And Technology, Economics, any English, Literature, 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
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Admissions information
Learn more about this course and others that Deakin offers by visiting VTAC for more information. You can also discover how Deakin compares to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning by visiting the ComparED website.
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enables Deakin to consider disadvantageous circumstances you may have experienced and their impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you're from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements.
You can also find out about different entry pathways into Deakin courses if you can't get in straight from high school.
Finally, Deakin is committed to admissions transparency. As part of that commitment, you can learn more about our first intake of 2022 students (PDF, 804.3KB) - their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
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 System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose to study as each unit has its own costs. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking the first year of 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 that 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.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2024 open in 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.
Direct applications are open for applicants who are not currently in Year 12, including:
- recent Year 12 students who completed secondary education in the past two years
- applicants with work and life experience
- applicants with TAFE study
- applicants with higher education study.
Please note: If you’re applying for more than one course, you need to apply through VTAC.
Entry pathways
Further studies are available at Honours and Postgraduate level. Many students choose to enter into the Bachelor of Communication (Honours) or the Master of Communication.
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
Call us 1800 693 888 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm)
Live Chat Mon–Thurs, 8am–7pm, Fri 8am–5pm
Careers
Career outcomes
With humans constantly processing more information than ever before, communication play 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’ll 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
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Communication is accredited by the Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA). Graduates are eligible for accelerated membership of the PRIA, ensuring you remain connected and up to date with current industry standards.
Course learning outcomes
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 | |
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