Bachelor of Communication and Media (Marketing Communication and Advertising)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Wollongong

Program Overview

This degree at the University of Wollongong gives you a strong understanding of how modern media and communication industries operate, combining creative media production with critical thinking and analysis. It is a good fit for students who want to develop practical media skills while also learning how communication influences audiences, culture, and global media systems.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Foundations of Communication and Media)
In the first year, you build essential knowledge through subjects such as Introduction to Communication and Media Studies, Global Media and Culture, Media Ethics and Law, and Making Media. These subjects help you understand how media works in society while also developing early skills in content creation and communication practice.

Year 2 (Research and Media Practice Development)
In the second year, you move into more applied and analytical learning with subjects such as Understanding Research Practice, Global Media and Social Justice, and Media Ethnographies. This stage helps you strengthen your research skills while learning how to critically analyse media systems and audiences.

Year 3 (Advanced Study and Capstone Learning)
In the final year, you take advanced subjects such as Emerging Issues in Media and Communication and The Future of Work, along with your chosen major and electives. You also complete a capstone project that brings together everything you have learned by working on real-world media and communication challenges.

Focus Areas

Digital and social media, journalism, marketing communication and advertising, screen media production, visual communication design, media research, global communication, media ethics

Learning Outcomes

Strong communication and media production skills, ability to analyse global media systems, critical thinking and research capability, teamwork and independent project skills, ability to produce professional media content across multiple platforms

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This is a professionally oriented degree designed to prepare graduates for careers in media, communication, marketing, public relations, journalism, and creative industries.

Reputation (Employability & Academic Value)

The University of Wollongong’s communication program is designed with a strong industry focus, combining practical media production, research skills, and global communication perspectives that support strong employability outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This degree is built around practical, hands-on learning where you actively produce media rather than just study theory. At the University of Wollongong, you work in real production environments, developing skills in filming, editing, storytelling, and digital communication from early in your degree. You also complete collaborative projects that reflect real industry settings, helping you build confidence, teamwork skills, and a strong professional portfolio.

These experiences are supported by specialist facilities and tools used throughout your studies:

Fully equipped television and video production studios for filming, editing, and screen-based storytelling
Radio studios and podcasting spaces for audio production and broadcast-style projects
Digital media and design labs for visual communication, animation, and content creation
Film production spaces for hands-on screen media and project-based work
Group projects that simulate real media teams, agencies, and newsroom environments
Ongoing portfolio development through creative and communication-based assessments
Use of industry-relevant digital tools for editing, production, and design tasks
Access to dedicated media learning spaces and communication facilities on campus
University library and digital research resources for media analysis and project work
Project-based learning using real-world communication briefs and audience-focused tasks

These opportunities ensure you graduate with practical industry skills, confidence in using professional tools, and a strong portfolio that supports careers in media, marketing, journalism, and communication.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this degree are well prepared for careers across media, communication, marketing, and digital industries, where strong storytelling and digital skills are highly valued. You may move into roles such as advertising officer, public relations officer, digital content creator, social media manager, or media strategist, depending on your interests and chosen major.

At UOW, your transition into employment is supported through practical learning and career-focused services:

Access to UOW Careers and Employability services including career counselling, resume and cover letter workshops, and interview preparation
Industry-style, project-based learning that helps you build a professional portfolio for job applications
Strong focus on real-world communication practice through media production, research, and campaign development
Opportunities to develop skills valued across corporate, government, nonprofit, and creative sectors where communication roles are consistently in demand
Graduates gain transferable skills in digital media, content creation, research, teamwork, and strategic communication that support long-term career growth

While salaries vary depending on role and experience, graduates typically begin in entry-level communication or media roles and can progress into senior positions in marketing, strategy, or management over time as they gain experience.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue into postgraduate study such as a Master of Communication, Master of Media and Creative Practice, Master of Journalism, or research pathways including Honours and PhD programs, depending on academic performance and career goals.