Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Media and Communications)

4 Years On Campus Dual-bachelors Program

University of Sydney

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Media and Communications) is designed for students who want to understand how media shapes society while developing the practical skills needed for careers in today's fast-changing communications industry. Combining media theory with hands-on learning, you'll explore journalism, digital media, public relations, strategic communication and emerging media technologies.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

Your first year builds a strong foundation in media and communication studies while introducing you to critical thinking and creative practice. You'll study core units such as Media and Communications: Key Concepts, Digital Media Principles, and Media Writing, developing skills in media analysis, communication and content creation.

Year 2

As you progress, you'll examine how media influences culture, politics and global communication while refining your practical skills. Through units including Strategic Communication, Media Industries and Audiences, and Digital Media Production, you'll learn to create engaging content and understand contemporary media environments.

Year 3

In your third year, you'll deepen your expertise through advanced study and elective specialisations. Subjects such as Global Media, Communication Research Methods, and Professional Media Practice help you strengthen your analytical abilities while working on industry-focused projects.

Year 4

The Advanced Studies year allows you to extend your learning through interdisciplinary study, advanced coursework or research. You'll complete units such as Advanced Studies Capstone, Industry and Community Project, or an Honours Pathway, giving you the opportunity to apply your knowledge to real-world challenges and prepare for leadership or postgraduate study.

Focus Areas

Media Studies • Digital Media • Journalism • Strategic Communication • Public Relations • Media Writing • Global Media • Communication Research • Digital Content Creation • Professional Practice

Learning Outcomes

Develop advanced communication and critical thinking skills, produce compelling digital and media content, analyse media's impact on society, apply research methods to communication challenges, collaborate across disciplines, and graduate ready for careers in media, communications and related industries.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The degree is delivered within the University of Sydney's Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and leads to an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 8 Bachelor Honours-equivalent qualification through the integrated Advanced Studies component, preparing graduates for professional practice and postgraduate study.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Sydney is consistently ranked among the top 20 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings.
The university is internationally recognised for excellence in the arts, humanities and social sciences, with a strong reputation for graduate employability and industry-connected learning.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Sydney, you'll learn through a combination of creative practice, industry engagement and real-world projects. Throughout the degree, you'll develop practical skills in journalism, digital media, public relations and communication while working on authentic industry scenarios. In your Advanced Studies year, you'll apply your learning through professional projects and an internship, giving you valuable workplace experience before you graduate:

Complete an industry internship in a media or communications organisation, supervised by both the workplace and the Department of Media and Communications.
Undertake project-based learning through real-world media organisation scenarios in the Advanced Studies year.
Complete either a major media project or a research essay, allowing you to specialise in an area of interest.
Build practical skills in written journalism, audio production, video production, digital media, social media and public relations through professionally focused units.
Participate in the Industry and Community Project, collaborating with external organisations on communication and media challenges.
Access the University's extensive Fisher Library, digital media resources and specialist research collections to support creative and academic work.
Study within the Department of Media and Communications, supported by leading academics and researchers in media, journalism and digital communication.
Develop digital storytelling and multimedia production skills using industry-standard media production tools introduced through practical coursework.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Media and Communications) develop the analytical, creative and professional skills needed to thrive in today's global media landscape. With practical experience, industry engagement and an advanced qualification, you'll be well prepared for careers across journalism, digital media, public relations and strategic communications. Common career paths include Communications Manager, Public Relations Consultant, Journalist, and Digital Content Producer:

Career support: The University of Sydney's Careers Centre offers one-to-one career coaching, resume and interview support, employer networking events, internships, job listings through CareerHub, and career development workshops.
Industry engagement: The degree includes opportunities to complete an industry internship and an Industry and Community Project, enabling students to work with external organisations on real communication and media challenges.
Graduate outcomes: Graduates are prepared for careers across media organisations, government agencies, corporate communications, public relations firms, marketing agencies, digital media companies and non-profit organisations.
Industry recognition: The Advanced Studies component provides an AQF Level 8 qualification, demonstrating advanced academic and professional capability that is highly valued by employers and supports entry into postgraduate study.
Global reputation: As one of Australia's leading universities, the University of Sydney offers graduates a globally recognised qualification supported by strong employer connections and an extensive international alumni network.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, you can continue with postgraduate study such as a Master of Media Practice, Master of Publishing, Master of Digital Communication and Culture, or a Master of Strategic Public Relations at the University of Sydney. Graduates interested in research can also progress to an Honours pathway (where applicable), followed by a Master by Research or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in media, communications or related disciplines.