Bachelor of Politics and International Relations/ Bachelor of Communication and Media

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Canberra

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Politics and International Relations / Bachelor of Communication and Media (4 years) is designed for students who want to understand how politics shapes the world while also learning how to communicate effectively in a media-driven environment. You’ll explore global and regional political systems while developing practical skills in storytelling, media production, and strategic communication, preparing you for careers that combine influence, insight, and creativity.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 — Foundations in Politics and Media
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in both politics and media. Units like Introduction to Politics and Government and Introduction to Economics introduce you to how societies are governed and how policies impact people. On the communication side, you’ll explore Understanding Communication and Media and Making Media, learning the basics of crafting messages and connecting with audiences.

Year 2 — Developing Analytical and Creative Skills
Year two helps you go deeper into understanding political systems and developing your creative voice. Units such as Introduction to International Relations and Anthropology of Power: Lands, Peoples and Knowledges sharpen your analytical and global perspective. Meanwhile, communication electives like Communication and Media: Find Your Path allow you to experiment with storytelling, ethical messaging, and professional communication in real-world contexts.

Year 3 — Applied Politics and Media Practice
In your third year, you’ll tackle more advanced topics in both fields. Political units like Politics and Security in the Asia‑Pacific and Foreign Policy give insight into contemporary global challenges. At the same time, media units such as Global Brand Communication or Social Media Campaigns allow you to put theory into practice, creating campaigns, analysing trends, and thinking strategically about how media shapes public perception.

Year 4 — Professional Integration and Specialisation
Your final year brings everything together in professional and applied contexts. Units like Professional Evidence (Government and Policy) strengthen your ability to research, analyse, and present insights clearly, while media units like Communication Strategy and Campaign Planning give you the tools to design and evaluate real campaigns. By the end, you’ll be ready to confidently navigate careers where both politics and media intersect.

Focus areas

Politics and global affairs, international relations, government and policy, media writing and production, strategic communication, digital and social media analytics, storytelling and audience engagement

Learning outcomes

Develop a deep understanding of politics and international relations, build advanced communication skills, analyse and interpret global issues, design effective media strategies, engage diverse audiences, and apply professional judgment in real-world contexts

Professional alignment

The degree is designed with guidance from industry standards, ensuring your skills meet the expectations of employers in public policy, communications, and media sectors.

Reputation

University of Canberra is recognised for strong industry links and practical learning opportunities, giving graduates an edge in careers like policy advice, communications strategy, public affairs, and media production.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Canberra, this double degree is designed so you learn by doing, not just by reading. From the very start, you’ll have opportunities to apply what you’re learning in real-world settings, whether that’s through projects, internships, or professional media work. You’ll have access to modern media facilities, industry-standard equipment, and chances to collaborate with peers and professionals — all of which help you build practical skills and confidence before you even graduate:

Work Integrated Learning (WIL): Starting with orientation units in your first year and continuing through professional practice projects, WIL lets you tackle real-world challenges, work with organisations, and develop skills that directly transfer to the workplace.
Internships: In your second and third years, you can complete academic internships that give you hands-on experience in organisations like the ABC, Edelman, the ACT Government, or other media and policy partners, helping you grow your network and apply classroom knowledge.
Professional media facilities: You’ll have access to dedicated spaces like the Media Resource Centre and modern studios, where you can use cameras, lighting, audio equipment, and digital tools to create professional content for assignments and your portfolio.
Student-led media platforms: UC’s student radio station, 87.8 UCFM, gives you a real broadcasting environment to host, produce, and manage shows, giving you skills that employers value in live media and communications.
Collaborative projects and industry briefs: Across both politics and communication units, you’ll work on group projects and real client briefs, learning how to think strategically, solve problems, and communicate effectively as part of a team.

All of these experiences mean that when you graduate, you won’t just have theoretical knowledge — you’ll have a professional portfolio, practical skills, and real connections in the field.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this double degree leave ready to step confidently into careers where understanding politics, global affairs, and media communication is essential. Typical roles include public affairs consultant, political or foreign policy adviser, media strategist, or communications manager — all positions where your analytical thinking and ability to communicate clearly will make a real impact:

Career support services: Careers UC offers personalised guidance, including one-on-one career planning, resume and interview workshops, access to internships and part-time work listings, and employer events to help you build professional connections while you study and beyond graduation.
Employment outcomes and salaries: University of Canberra graduates enjoy strong employability, with around 85 % securing full-time work after finishing their degree and a median starting salary of about AUD 71,000, reflecting the value employers place on practical skills and professional experience.
University–industry connections: Through Work Integrated Learning and industry partnerships, you’ll gain hands-on experience, build networks, and develop contacts with organisations in government, media, and corporate sectors — giving you a head start in your career.
Accreditation and long-term value: The program combines political knowledge with communication expertise, giving you a qualification respected in public policy, media, and strategic communication roles.
Graduation successes: By the time you finish, you’ll not only have knowledge but also real-world experience in research, analysis, strategic communication, and professional decision-making, making you workplace-ready from day one.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, there are many pathways to specialise or advance your career. You could pursue a Graduate Diploma or Master in International Relations, Public Policy, or Communication and Media, focusing on areas such as strategic communication, digital media, or policy analysis. For those interested in research, honours programs or research-based postgraduate degrees open doors to careers in academia, policy research, or senior advisory roles where advanced analytical and research skills are key.