Communication and Media Studies

Media studies and their broader counterpart, communication studies, encompass the technical and artistic elements of creating and disseminating messages for wide consumption.

For more information about the top journalism courses in Australia, see the Journalism page.

Top Courses

Bond University

Master of Communication (Professional)

"Communication strategist - Communication strategist - Brand manager - Public relations manager"

The Master of Communication (Professional) program will equip students with the skills to focus on interpersonal and group interactions in the workplace; communication challenges posed by an increasingly diverse and virtual workforce; planning for internal and external communication in private, public, and non-profit organisations; media strategies; and management of risks, among other topics.

Master of Communication / Master of Project Management

This course brings will bring you up-to-date on the risks and opportunities of new and emerging media, examining how they combine with traditional written, verbal and visual communication skills in core business disciplines such as public relations, advertising, organisational communication and more. Having dual qualifications in communication and project management will ensure that your resume stands out in today’s competitive employment landscape.

CRICOS Course Code: 088315J

Macquarie University

Master of Media and Communications

This course will give you the skills you need to expertly respond to the challenges associated with the changing mediascape in ethical and socially engaged ways. It focuses on digital production, distribution, and audience communication and engagement strategies, as well as online journalism and media practices. Armed with such contemporary knowledge and skills, you’ll accelerate your career in fast-moving contemporary media and communications environments across the world.

CRICOS Course Code: 099507K

Monash University

Master of Communications and Media Studies

Ranked No.19 in the world in the QS World University Rankings by Subject for 2014, the program focuses on fostering industry-ready graduates.

You will be introduced to the latest developments and research in communications and media – including in social and online media – always with a view to "real world" applications. Study units feature guest professional speakers in conjunction with industry focussed field trips to media outlets in Sydney, Melbourne, New York, Hong Kong and Shanghai. You will gain a critically informed understanding of key issues affecting the global communications industry focusing on the challenges posed by the emergence of digital media, globalisation and increasing levels of cross-cultural exchange. Industry engagement through guest speakers, internships, and opportunities for site visits in Australia and abroad will enhance your knowledge and professional competency. For example, students in the programme can get internships with the United Nations in New York and with Shandong Television in China.

CRICOS Course Code: 082653F

Swinburne University of Technology

Master of Media and Communication

The world of media and communication is changing at breakneck speed. In this course, theory meets practice. You’ll gain a range of media production skills and digital technology, professional development, research and project management skills that can take your career to the next level. Choose to specialise in media practice, strategic communication or social media management. Build your relationships with industry and external stakeholders before you graduate with an industry-based media project. Graduate ready to move up, or across, into a career in public relations, media and communications, journalism, publishing, broadcasting, production, radio, research or web development.

CRICOS Course Code: 093362D

University of Western Australia

Master of Strategic Communication

This course opens up opportunities that lead to rewarding careers and it is also an excellent option for professionals who would like to progress their skills in this area.  The program is tailored to advance your capacity to succeed in a range of media and communications roles and provide effective strategy and leadership for the industry, government and community. 

CRICOS Course Code: 083878C

University of Tasmania

Master of Journalism, Media and Communications

Communications aims to produce experts and independent and entrepreneurial communicators. Designed for those wanting to promote and implement change across a range of social, environmental, political and business settings, the course helps you to develop advanced analytical skills and professional-level communications expertise. You will learn how to communicate visually and in writing to an advanced level, develop knowledge of the strategic and political communications fields and media industries, and produce and engage with traditional and emergent media platforms and practices.

CRICOS Course Code: 066765J

University of Wollongong

Master of Communication and Media

This course will give you a strong foundation in the practical skills required to succeed in this dynamic business sector. The program immerses you in a multi-disciplinary environment, promoting collaborative working and team leadership, as well as independent learning. Today’s journalist often functions as a one-person operation responsible for writing, recording audio and video, editing, and producing material for various platforms. The same skills are required in public relations and higher-level versions of these skills figure in feature films and documentaries.

CRICOS Course Code: 099675E

Top Occupations

* Likely to qualify for a Skilled Independent or Temporary Graduate visa in Australia.
** Likely to be fast-tracked for visas in Australia.

Top Employers

• Agencies and businesses throughout the creative and media industries

• Communication firms

• The Civil Service

• Local government 

• Colleges and universities

• Media companies

• Marketing firms

• Newspapers and publishers of other periodicals

All Courses