Bachelor of Communication (Media and Communication Industries)/Bachelor of Laws (Honours)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Queensland University of Technology

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Communication (Media and Communication Industries) / Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at QUT combines creative communication studies with professional legal training, preparing students for careers across media, digital communication, law and corporate industries. This 5.5-year double degree is ideal for students interested in media, communication strategy, digital culture and legal systems, especially in areas connected to media regulation, technology and public policy.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students build strong foundations in both communication and law while developing creative and analytical skills. Communication units such as Communication in the Digital Age, Understanding Audiences and Visual Communication introduce digital storytelling, audience engagement and media culture, while law subjects including Introduction to Law and Legal Institutions and Legal Research and Writing develop an understanding of legal systems and professional legal communication.

Year 2:
During the second year, students begin exploring media industries and communication strategy while continuing their core legal studies. Units such as Media Industries, Digital Media Practices and Creative Enterprise focus on media innovation, content creation and communication strategy, while law units like Contract Law and Criminal Law strengthen legal reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Year 3:
In the third year, learning becomes more practical and industry-focused. Students work on collaborative projects involving digital media, social media strategy and audience analysis while studying legal subjects such as Constitutional Law and Administrative Law, helping them understand how law influences media, communication and public institutions.

Year 4:
At this stage, students develop advanced knowledge in communication industries alongside specialised legal studies. Communication subjects focus on media strategy, digital communication and industry practices, while law units such as Equity and Trusts and Commercial and Personal Property Law build professional legal expertise relevant to business and media environments.

Year 5 to final year:
In the final stage of the degree, students complete advanced electives, industry projects and professional preparation experiences. There are opportunities to combine communication expertise with legal analysis through research projects, strategic communication work and law-focused practical training, preparing graduates for careers across both creative and legal sectors.

Focus areas (in a string):
Media industries, digital communication, communication strategy, media production, audience engagement, social media strategy, media law, legal research, constitutional law, contract law, public policy, digital culture, communication ethics, law and technology

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Develop communication strategies, analyse media industries and audiences, create digital communication content, apply legal reasoning and research skills, understand media and communication law, evaluate ethical and regulatory issues, communicate professionally across legal and media environments, combine creative and analytical problem-solving skills

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The Bachelor of Laws (Honours) is professionally recognised for progression toward legal practice in Australia after completing Practical Legal Training. The communication component is industry-focused and aligned with modern media, digital communication and creative industry practices through practical projects and industry engagement.

Reputation (employability rankings):
QUT is recognised internationally for media and communication studies and is known for its strong industry engagement, practical learning approach and graduate employability outcomes. The university has a strong reputation for preparing graduates for careers across law, media, communication and digital industries.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Queensland University of Technology (QUT), students in the Bachelor of Communication (Media and Communication Industries) and Bachelor of Laws (Honours) programs are immersed in a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience. The university is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools that enhance the learning experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers.

Through hands-on projects, collaborative group work, and access to industry-standard software, students can apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. The emphasis on experiential learning means that you won’t just be learning in a classroom; you’ll be engaging with the community, working on real cases, and using professional-grade equipment.

Here are some key features of the experiential learning opportunities available in these programs:

- Media and Communication Industries:
- Access to the QUT Creative Industries Precinct, which includes studios for film, television, and radio production.
- Use of industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite for design and media production.
- Opportunities for internships with leading media organizations, providing invaluable industry experience.
- Participation in group projects that simulate real-world media campaigns and communication strategies.
- Field trips to media organizations and events, allowing students to network and gain insights into the industry.
- Access to the QUT Library, which offers extensive resources for research and study.

- Bachelor of Laws (Honours):
- Access to the QUT Law Library, featuring a comprehensive collection of legal resources and study spaces.
- Opportunities to participate in legal clinics, where students work on real cases under the supervision of qualified lawyers.
- Use of legal research databases and software, such as Westlaw and LexisNexis, to develop research skills.
- Involvement in moot court competitions, providing practical experience in legal advocacy and courtroom procedures.
- Group projects that encourage collaboration and critical thinking on legal issues.
- Field trips to courts and legal institutions, offering insights into the legal profession and its workings.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also equip you with the skills and connections needed to thrive in your chosen career. If you’re ready to take the next step in your education and career, consider applying to QUT.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Bachelor of Communication (Media and Communication Industries) and a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) opens up a world of opportunities. This unique combination equips you with essential skills in both media and legal fields, preparing you for diverse career paths. Typical job roles include:

- Media Lawyer
- Public Relations Specialist
- Communications Manager
- Policy Advisor

Here’s how QUT supports your journey into the workforce:

- Career Services: QUT offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events to connect you with industry professionals.
- Employment Statistics: QUT boasts a strong graduate employment rate, with 87% of graduates securing employment within four months of completing their degree. The average starting salary for graduates in this field is around $65,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: QUT has established partnerships with leading organizations such as 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 (Honours) is accredited by the Legal Practitioners Admissions Board, ensuring that your degree meets the standards required for legal practice in Australia.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from this program are well-prepared for the evolving job market, with many finding roles in high-demand sectors such as media, law, and public policy.

Further Academic Progression: After completing this dual degree, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Master of Communication or a Master of Laws, allowing you to specialize in areas such as media law, intellectual property, or international relations. This can enhance your expertise and open even more doors in your career.

By choosing QUT, you’re not just earning a degree; you’re building a future filled with potential and opportunities.