Graduate Certificate Mass Communication Full Time

Graduate Certificate in Media (Strategic Communication)

at Adelaide University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

0100936

CRICOS provider code

00123M

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

26 weeks

Tuition (whole course)

A$22,750 total

Per year

A$45,500/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Graduate Certificate in Media (Strategic Communication) at Adelaide University is designed for those looking to sharpen their skills in media strategy, public relations, and digital communication. Students tackle practical challenges in creating, managing, and evaluating media campaigns. Core topics include media writing, communication planning, crisis management, and analysis of digital platforms, all grounded in contemporary industry practice.

This qualification fits neatly into Australian higher education structures, typically spanning one semester of full-time study. It is made up of a set number of units of study (subjects), each contributing to credit points as defined by the university for CRICOS registration. Assessment often involves real-world projects, such as developing a strategic communication plan, giving students direct experience relevant to Australian workplaces. There is a focus on work-relevant skills but no formal placement requirement or capstone thesis given the certificate's short duration.

Graduates will gain practical skills in media writing, audience analysis, strategic content planning, and stakeholder engagement. The course is suitable for recent graduates from any discipline, as well as early- and mid-career professionals looking to transition into or advance within media, public relations, corporate communications, or related sectors.

Adelaide is a hub for creative industries, PR agencies, and government media teams, making it a practical setting for anyone looking to build industry connections or cement a foothold in Australia’s media scene. Australia's 48-hour-per-fortnight work rights for student visa holders allow for valuable experience while studying, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Entry requires undergraduate study and evidence of English proficiency; applicants should check official requirements for details.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.
International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

  • Public relations coordinator in Australian agencies
  • Media adviser for government departments
  • Corporate communication officer in business or not-for-profit sectors
  • Digital content strategist for brands or creative studios
  • Social media manager
  • Community engagement officer

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Certificate in Media (Strategic Communication) at Adelaide University?

It typically takes 26 weeks, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$22,750 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Public relations coordinator in Australian agenciesMedia adviser for government departmentsCorporate communication officer in business or not-for-profit sectorsDigital content strategist for brands or creative studiosSocial media managerCommunity engagement officer

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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