Evolving industry prompts degree revamp
Refreshed Master of Communication Studies degree provides fresh challenges to meet the needs of a diverse, rapidly changing industry.
AUT’s School of Communication Studies has revamped its master's degree. The changes will appeal to both current students and people thinking about a career change or boost through a return to study.
Director of Postgraduate Studies, Associate Professor Vijay Devadas says the specialisations within the degree offer students a chance to refresh their skills and advance their careers, whether they’re already studying or are returning to study.
“We know from feedback that fitting study into a career is difficult. Not all practitioners can get time off work to study in ‘traditional’ timeslots, so we’ve worked hard to offer an in-person study experience that has enough flexibility to fit alongside work life.
“We’re confident both our current student already studying towards their Master of Communication Studies and people already in employment who are keen to boost their careers will benefit from the fortnightly class time.”
- Each course will be taught every second week over the semester, with self-paced study in between in-person classes. Classes are all in the evening, from 6 – 8 pm.
- In addition to the weekday classes, each course has one Saturday workshop, from 9 am to 4 pm.
- Students choose from one of three specialisations: Communication Leadership, Media Innovation and Inclusive Journalism, and select additional courses from other specialisations or disciplines
- Applications are welcome from anyone with a bachelor's degree who is interested in upskilling, reskilling or taking their career in a new direction
- Applications are open now for Semester 1, starting 3 March 2025
- Students develop a portfolio of work, putting learning into practice
“Communications technology has long been disruptive, but the core need for clear communications is stronger than ever, in the face of fragmented audiences and waves of mis- and disinformation. These courses offer applied learning opportunities, and students will finish the degree with a rich portfolio of work.”
The courses have been designed by teams of lecturers with rich industry experience. Part of the assessment of each course will include a creative output relevant to the course, leaving students with a portfolio of work at the end of the degree.
Courses include:
Communication Leadership
- Change and Sustainability
- Communicating Wicked Problems
- Digital Citizenship
- Persuasion and Social Change
Inclusive Journalism
- Indigenous Journalism
- Journalism of Inclusion
- Accidental and Alternative Journalisms
- Experimental Modes and Forms
Media Innovation
- Media Innovation Practice
- Producing for Media Ecosystems
- Managing Innovation in the Digital Economy
- Media Futures
Learn more about the courses available and apply online.