Bachelor of Communication in Public Relations and Advertising Bachelor of Laws

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Technology Sydney

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Communication in Public Relations and Advertising combined with the Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at UTS is a five-year double degree for students who want to combine strategic communication with a strong legal foundation. It is ideal for students interested in public relations, advertising, media strategy, corporate communication, and law, especially where messaging, ethics, and regulation overlap.

You will learn how to design impactful communication campaigns while also understanding how legal systems influence media, business communication, and public messaging.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In your first year, you build core foundations in both communication and law through subjects such as Communication and Society, Communication and Technology, Communication and Work Futures, Emergent Public Relations, and Creative Advertising. These subjects help you understand how communication operates in society while introducing basic legal concepts and professional communication practice.

Year 2

In year two, you develop more specialised communication skills through subjects like Strategic Communication in Society, Branding and Reputation, and Multiplatform Storytelling. Alongside this, you continue core law studies that build your understanding of legal systems, reasoning, and foundational legal principles.

Year 3

In the third year, your learning becomes more applied through subjects such as Strategic Campaign Design and The Agency, where you work on real communication strategies and campaign development. You also continue structured law studies that strengthen your analytical thinking and case-based reasoning skills.

Year 4

In year four, you move into more advanced communication strategy and legal learning, working on complex projects involving campaign planning, media ethics, and legal analysis. This stage helps you connect professional communication practice with legal frameworks in real-world contexts.

Year 5

In your final year, you complete the honours-level law component, including advanced legal research and a major thesis or research project. This year integrates everything you have learned and prepares you for professional roles in both communication and legal fields.

Focus Areas

Public relations, advertising, strategic communication, media campaigns, branding and reputation, corporate communication, media law, legal systems, legal research, professional ethics

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop strong skills in strategic communication, campaign development, legal reasoning, and critical analysis. You will graduate with both creative and legal expertise, preparing you for careers across communication, media, corporate, and legal sectors.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The law component of this degree meets the academic requirements for admission to legal practice in New South Wales, subject to completion of Practical Legal Training. The program is also aligned with industry expectations in public relations and advertising, preparing students for professional communication careers.

Reputation (Employability / Rankings)

UTS is well recognised for its strong industry connections and practical learning approach in both communication and law. It consistently ranks among leading Australian universities for graduate employability, particularly in communication and legal disciplines.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), students in the Bachelor of Communication in Public Relations and Advertising and the Bachelor of Laws programs are immersed in a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience. UTS is committed to providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance their learning journey. This hands-on approach not only prepares students for their future careers but also allows them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

In these programs, students can expect to engage in a variety of experiential learning opportunities, including:

- Industry-Standard Software: Gain proficiency in tools like Adobe Creative Suite for design and content creation, as well as social media management platforms to develop effective communication strategies.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on real-world campaigns and legal case studies, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills essential for both public relations and legal professions.
- Internships: Benefit from UTS's strong industry connections, offering internship placements with leading PR agencies, advertising firms, and legal practices, providing invaluable work experience.
- Field Trips: Participate in excursions to media organizations, advertising agencies, and law courts, allowing students to observe professionals in action and understand industry dynamics.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated spaces for research and innovation, where students can explore communication theories and legal principles in depth.
- Libraries and Resources: Utilize the UTS Library, which offers extensive resources, including databases, journals, and study spaces tailored for communication and law students.
- Industry Partnerships: Engage with industry leaders through guest lectures and workshops, providing insights into current trends and practices in public relations, advertising, and law.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen fields. By choosing UTS, you are not just enrolling in a program; you are stepping into a vibrant community that prioritizes practical experience and professional development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Bachelor of Communication in Public Relations and Advertising combined with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) opens up a world of exciting career opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Public Relations Manager, Advertising Executive, Corporate Lawyer, and Compliance Officer. This unique combination of skills positions you at the intersection of communication and law, making you highly sought after in various industries.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: UTS offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals, ensuring you are well-equipped for the job market.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: UTS boasts an impressive graduate employment rate of 85%, with average starting salaries for graduates in this field around AUD 65,000 to AUD 75,000, depending on the role and industry.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UTS has strong connections with leading companies and organizations, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance learning and employability.
- 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 legal practice in Australia.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from this program are not only equipped with practical skills but also critical thinking and strategic communication abilities, making them versatile professionals ready to tackle complex challenges in their careers.

Further Academic Progression: After completing this program, you can pursue further studies such as a Master of Communication or a Master of Laws, allowing you to specialize in areas like media law, international relations, or advanced public relations strategies. Additionally, you may consider enrolling in a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, which is essential for those looking to become practicing lawyers.

Choosing UTS for your studies in Communication and Law is a step towards a dynamic and fulfilling career. The skills and experiences you gain here will set you apart in the competitive job market.