Bachelor of Media and Communications and Bachelor of Laws

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Macquarie University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Media and Communications and Bachelor of Laws at Macquarie University is a five-year double degree that combines creative media expertise with a strong legal education. It is designed for students who want to work in areas such as journalism, public policy, corporate law, or communications where both legal understanding and media skills are highly valuable.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In the first year, students are introduced to both disciplines through foundational units such as Foundations of Law, Law, Lawyers and Society, and Introduction to Media and Mass Communications. This year builds an understanding of legal systems while also developing core communication, media literacy, and storytelling skills.

Year 2:
The second year strengthens core knowledge through subjects like Contracts, Criminal Justice, and Media Practice and Production. Students begin applying legal reasoning while also gaining practical experience in media creation, digital storytelling, and communication techniques.

Year 3:
In the third year, students move into more advanced study with units such as Torts, Constitutional Law, and Media Theory in Practice. This stage focuses on developing deeper legal analysis skills while continuing to expand critical thinking and media production capabilities.

Year 4:
The fourth year includes specialised legal study such as Administrative Law and Equity and Trusts, along with advanced media-focused learning like Network Cultures. Students also begin working more independently on applied legal and media tasks, preparing for professional environments.

Year 5:
In the final year, students complete advanced legal subjects such as Evidence and Jurisprudence along with capstone legal studies, while also finishing media electives and practical projects. This year is focused on preparing students for real-world professional roles in both law and media.

Focus Areas:
Law, legal reasoning, media production, journalism, public relations, policy analysis, corporate law, digital media, communication strategy, ethics, governance, and cultural studies.

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates gain strong legal reasoning skills combined with advanced media and communication abilities, enabling them to analyse complex legal issues and communicate them effectively across professional settings.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The law component is a recognised pathway toward legal practice in Australia, aligned with requirements for further professional legal training. The media component is industry-focused, preparing students for roles in communications, journalism, and digital media industries.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Macquarie University is well regarded for strong graduate employability, with law graduates progressing into legal practice, government, and corporate roles, while media graduates move into journalism, PR, and communications careers. The university is consistently recognised in global rankings such as QS World University Rankings for strong employer reputation and graduate outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Macquarie University, the Bachelor of Media and Communications and Bachelor of Laws programs are designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for the dynamic fields of media and law. With state-of-the-art facilities and access to industry-standard tools, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle real-world challenges.

Here’s how you can expect to gain practical skills through experiential learning in these programs:

- Media Production Facilities: Access to professional-grade studios and editing suites, including video and audio production equipment, allowing you to create high-quality media content.
- Digital Tools: Use of industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite for design and editing, as well as social media analytics tools to understand audience engagement.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on projects that simulate real-world media campaigns and legal cases, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
- Internships: Opportunities to undertake internships with leading media organizations and law firms, providing invaluable experience and networking opportunities.
- Field Trips: Engage in field trips to media houses, courts, and legal institutions, giving you firsthand insight into the workings of the industry.
- Research Laboratories: Access to dedicated research facilities where you can explore media trends and legal issues, supported by faculty expertise.
- Libraries and Resources: Utilize the extensive resources of the Macquarie University Library, which includes a vast collection of legal texts, media journals, and digital archives.
- Industry Connections: Benefit from the university’s strong ties with industry professionals, offering guest lectures, workshops, and networking events.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also significantly boost your employability upon graduation.

Embarking on this journey in Media and Communications and Law at Macquarie University could be the perfect step towards a fulfilling career. I encourage you to apply and take advantage of these incredible opportunities!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Media and Communications and Bachelor of Laws at Macquarie University are well-equipped for a dynamic career landscape, combining skills in media, communication, and legal expertise. With a strong foundation in both fields, you can pursue various roles such as a media lawyer, public relations specialist, or policy advisor. The versatility of this dual degree opens doors to numerous opportunities:

- University Services: Macquarie offers dedicated career support through the Career and Employment Service, which provides personalized career advice, workshops, and networking events to connect you with industry professionals.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from this program enjoy a high employment rate, with many securing roles shortly after graduation. The average starting salary for graduates in media and communications can range from $60,000 to $70,000, while law graduates often start around $70,000 to $80,000, depending on the sector.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Macquarie has established strong partnerships with leading organizations, including the ABC, News Corp, and various law firms, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The Bachelor of Laws is accredited by the Legal Profession Admission Board, ensuring that your degree meets the standards required for admission to practice law in Australia.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are not only prepared for immediate employment but also possess the skills necessary for long-term career advancement in their chosen fields.

Further Academic Progression: After completing this dual degree, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Master of Laws (LLM) or a Master of Media and Communications. These advanced degrees can deepen your expertise and enhance your career prospects, allowing you to specialize in areas such as international law, media policy, or digital communication strategies. Additionally, you could consider enrolling in a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, which is essential for those looking to become practicing solicitors.

By choosing to study at Macquarie University, you’re not just earning a degree; you’re setting yourself up for a successful and fulfilling career in two of the most exciting fields today.