Master of Public Relations & Advertising / Master of Design

3 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Master of Public Relations & Advertising / Master of Design at UNSW is a dual postgraduate degree combining strategic communication, public relations and advertising with design practice, media theory and design research. The program can be completed in 2 or 3 years full-time, depending on the student's entry stream and previous qualifications.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Students begin with public relations and advertising study alongside core design subjects. Depending on the entry stream, students undertake PR and Advertising core or advanced disciplinary courses, prescribed electives and Design core courses.

Year 2: Students continue advanced study in public relations and advertising, prescribed electives and design, including Design Studio Area of Practice courses. Students in the two-year stream complete the requirements for the 96 UOC program during this period.

Year 3: Students in the three-year stream complete additional PR and Advertising core and advanced disciplinary courses, prescribed electives, Design core courses and Design Studio Area of Practice courses, completing the 144 UOC program.

Focus Areas: Public Relations, Advertising, Strategic Communication, Design Practice, Media Theory, Design Research, Design Thinking, Graphic Communication, Interaction Design, User Experience Design, Visualisation and Visual Effects.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will develop strategic communication, creative design, critical thinking, research and practical skills, enabling them to apply design and communication approaches to contemporary industry challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The dual degree provides postgraduate academic and professional training across public relations, advertising and design, combining theoretical knowledge with practical design studio and communication study.

Reputation (Employability): The combination of communication and design skills prepares graduates for creative and strategic roles across advertising, public relations, branding, media, marketing, communication and design industries.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), students in the Master of Public Relations & Advertising and the Master of Design programs are immersed in a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience. The university 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 the challenges of their respective fields but also fosters creativity and innovation.

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

- Industry-Standard Software: Students gain proficiency in leading software such as Adobe Creative Suite, which includes Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, essential for design and advertising projects.

- Collaborative Group Projects: Both programs emphasize teamwork through collaborative projects, allowing students to work together to solve real-world problems and develop effective communication strategies.

- Internship Opportunities: UNSW has strong connections with industry partners, providing students with internship opportunities that offer invaluable experience and networking potential.

- Field Trips: Students often participate in field trips to advertising agencies, design studios, and public relations firms, giving them insights into industry practices and trends.

- Dedicated Design Labs: The university features specialized design labs equipped with the latest technology, enabling students to experiment and create innovative designs.

- Access to Research Libraries: UNSW boasts extensive library resources, including access to digital databases and archives that support research and project work.

- Collaboration with Institutes: Students have the chance to collaborate with various institutes and centers within UNSW, enhancing their learning through interdisciplinary projects.

- Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and guest lectures from industry professionals provide students with current insights and trends in public relations, advertising, and design.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Master of Public Relations & Advertising or a Master of Design from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) opens up a world of exciting career opportunities. Alumni from these programs often find themselves in dynamic roles such as Public Relations Manager, Brand Strategist, and Creative Director. The skills and knowledge gained during your studies will prepare you for a successful career in the ever-evolving fields of communication and design.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of support and outcomes:

- University Services: UNSW offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events that connect students with industry professionals.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from these programs enjoy a high employment rate, with many securing roles shortly after graduation. The average salary for graduates in these fields can range from AUD 70,000 to AUD 100,000, depending on the role and experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNSW has strong ties with leading companies and organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships and real-world projects that enhance their learning experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: Both programs are recognized by industry bodies, ensuring that your qualifications remain relevant and respected in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: The programs are designed to equip you with practical skills and theoretical knowledge, leading to a high rate of graduate satisfaction and employability.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master’s degree, you may choose to pursue a PhD in a related field, allowing you to delve deeper into research and academia. Alternatively, you could explore specialized certifications or short courses to enhance your expertise in specific areas of public relations, advertising, or design. This continued education can further elevate your career prospects and open doors to advanced roles in your chosen field.