Bachelor of Communication

Develop your transferable skills in Australia

Today’s rapidly changing work environment requires employees to acquire dynamic and flexible skills. By studying a Bachelor of Communication in Australia, graduates can differentiate themselves by complementing the foundations of communication with a specialisation providing them with transferable and adaptable knowledge.

Our students are able to immerse themselves in the ever-changing hub of the Gold Coast and step into the next chapter of their career by graduating sooner with Bond’s accelerated degrees.

Experience the Australian industry first-hand

Ross Healy | Bachelor of Communication & Master of Communication graduate
Our Alumni are travelling at the speed of social! From his home base in Melbourne Australia, Bond University Alumnus Ross shares how Bond prepared him for a career that didn’t even exist when he was studying.

Laura Brown - Owner & Director Frolic Events
Hear from Bachelor of Communication (Majoring in Marketing & Advertising) graduate Laura Brown, Owner and Director of Frolic Events, Sydney.

The Bachelor of Communication provides students the opportunity to complete a for-credit internship as part of their studies. The Faculty of Society & Design has developed industry partnerships with leading organisations in Australia, allowing students the potential to intern with: the Australian Good Food Guide, Channel 7 Australia, Channel 10 Australia, Gold Coast Bulletin, and Smart Erickson. Bond’s dedicated Career Development Centre assists students in finding an internship and work experience, allowing them to further develop their skill set. Students will also be able to find mentors that are interested in and influential to their career ambitions. At Bond, students learn from nationally and internationally recognised academics in a collaborative environment. Students will experience Bond’s small class sizes and a hands-on approach to learning that optimises their educational experience.

Combined Degree Options

Bachelor of Communication/Bachelor of Laws

What our students say

"I studied both my undergraduate and postgraduate degree at Bond University. I completed a Bachelor of Communication, majoring in Advertising and Journalism. I also completed a Master of Arts, majoring in Corporate Communication and Public Relations. I decided to study at Bond, due to the ability to fast track my degrees and the small size of the university. I also loved the tight knit community! Show more
"I studied both my undergraduate and postgraduate degree at Bond University. I completed a Bachelor of Communication, majoring in Advertising and Journalism. I also completed a Master of Arts, majoring in Corporate Communication and Public Relations. I decided to study at Bond, due to the ability to fast track my degrees and the small size of the university. I also loved the tight knit community!
The best thing about studying at Bond is definitely the people, from the teachers to students and staff, the people are amazing. During my time at Bond, I met some of the greatest people from all over the world and created a close network.
My experience at Bond was incredible! I lived on campus for the duration of my two degrees and from the moment I moved in, it felt like home. There was always something to do if I was not studying, like joining one of the great clubs on campus and meeting new people. When I first started at Bond, I was fortunate to meet a number of students who were partway through their degree and who have become friends and future contacts for my business.
I completed a number of internships while at Bond, which were extremely helpful. For example, I interned in Singapore for one of the largest advertising agencies, Bond even allowed me to take the internship as a subject in my degree. Bond also helped me secure an internship in Melbourne through a previous student. I managed to organise several other internships independently and although Bond did not source these, they were extremely supportive and assisted me in every aspect.
Since graduating from Bond I have founded two businesses. I am the Co-Founder/Director of the app ‘Be There Beauty’ and the Founder/Director of the social media management business, ‘So Social Australia’. Bond equipped me for these roles as I gained skills throughout my degrees that prepared me for the real world. Bond allowed me to connect with other previous students from around the world who also run their own business. Although I may not have known them while I was studying, the network that Bond has established helped me greatly.
The main difference between Bond and other universities is that Bond is like a family. The Bond community supports each other during your studies and every day after. Everyone you meet is so nice and genuinely wants to keep in contact and remain part of the community. Attending Bond for two degrees was some of the best times of my life and I want to go back in the future to study, I wouldn’t go anywhere else after going to Bond.
I would certainly recommend Bond to anyone and I do on a regular basis. It is a world-class institution that allows you to fast-track your degree, and start working and using the skills you have gained. The first month at Bond I learnt skills I use every day at work. The teachers and fellow students are incredible and helped and continue to shape the reason why Bond is a fantastic university." Show less

Wendy graduated from Somerset College on the Gold Coast and attended Bond University, where she obtained a degree in Communication. Wendy has worked as a Radio News Reporter for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), a Presenter and Reporter for WIN Television, and is currently Journalist & Television News Presenter for the Nine Network.

Sara joined the Seven Network in 2002 as a Presenter and Segment Producer for the national children’s program Saturday Disney, and completed her journalism studies at Bond University by correspondence. Since graduating from Bond, Sara has worked as a weather presenter and reporter on Seven News (local and national news), Today Tonight, various US Productions, Sydney Weekender, Beyond Tomorrow, reporter for Seven's coverage of the Melbourne Cup Carnival and is also an accomplished guest speaker & Emcee. Show more
Sara joined the Seven Network in 2002 as a Presenter and Segment Producer for the national children’s program Saturday Disney, and completed her journalism studies at Bond University by correspondence. Since graduating from Bond, Sara has worked as a weather presenter and reporter on Seven News (local and national news), Today Tonight, various US Productions, Sydney Weekender, Beyond Tomorrow, reporter for Seven's coverage of the Melbourne Cup Carnival and is also an accomplished guest speaker & Emcee. Most recently Sara was an Ambassador for Myer Fashions on the Field. She is also an ambassador for the National Breast Cancer Foundation and patron for Camp Quality. Show less

If you had asked Candice where she’d be in five year’s time, “rubbing shoulders with film star Owen Wilson” would probably not have been her response. But her recent interview with Owen for Saturday Disney, at the Night At The Museum 3 movie launch allowed her to do just that. Her brush with celebrities doesn’t stop there! Her job has taken her from London to Tokyo and around Australia interviewing celebrities; Oscar winner Russell Crowe, Ben Stiller, Rebel Wilson, and the Home and Away cast - just to name a few. Show more
If you had asked Candice where she’d be in five year’s time, “rubbing shoulders with film star Owen Wilson” would probably not have been her response. But her recent interview with Owen for Saturday Disney, at the Night At The Museum 3 movie launch allowed her to do just that. Her brush with celebrities doesn’t stop there! Her job has taken her from London to Tokyo and around Australia interviewing celebrities; Oscar winner Russell Crowe, Ben Stiller, Rebel Wilson, and the Home and Away cast - just to name a few.
Candice hit the ground running soon after graduating from a Bachelor of Communication majoring in journalism at Bond University with a job offer from Saturday Disney as a presenter.
Landing her dream job early on in her career she credits the practical experience she received while studying at Bond and her hard work.
“My lecturers helped me line up internships with Channel 9 Gold Coast News and 102.9 Hot Tomato. I also worked on various television and movie sets as an extra while I was studying."
“I think it’s important to start early and work hard.”
This charismatic Bondy is literally living her dream! Show less

"I chose to study a Bachelor of Communication at Bond University because I believed completing three semesters per year would allow me to launch my career as soon as possible. While studying here, I appreciated the small class sizes Bond offers because I felt more comfortable approaching lecturers and tutors for advice. Show more
"I chose to study a Bachelor of Communication at Bond University because I believed completing three semesters per year would allow me to launch my career as soon as possible. While studying here, I appreciated the small class sizes Bond offers because I felt more comfortable approaching lecturers and tutors for advice.
Studying at Bond University allowed me to meet and work with many people from all over the world which I know will provide me with many international contacts I may need in my career. Additionally, I always felt like any facilities or people to help me with anything I may need were available at all times.
I would definitely recommend studying at Bond University. I was able to meet so many people from all around the world, study in an environment that encouraged me to work hard and achieve my goals and took advantage of the many facilities available that enhanced my studying experience." Show less

"I studied a Bachelor of Communication, majoring in Journalism and Public Relations – and loved it! Before I started my Bond journey, I wasn’t sure if university was for me after a few long years of hard life lessons. Now, I can’t imagine not having taken this path and I’m so thankful for the lifelong friends I have, my incredible lecturers and all I’ve learned about both my dream career and myself. Show more
"I studied a Bachelor of Communication, majoring in Journalism and Public Relations – and loved it! Before I started my Bond journey, I wasn’t sure if university was for me after a few long years of hard life lessons. Now, I can’t imagine not having taken this path and I’m so thankful for the lifelong friends I have, my incredible lecturers and all I’ve learned about both my dream career and myself.
One of my favourite quotes of all time is: “Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it - the time will pass anyway." In other words, always persist and persevere! Nowadays, there is no-one who believes in the power of the mind more than I do (I am definitely one of those annoying eternal optimists - not even ashamed to admit it).
I am glad I studied journalism as part of my major, even though I haven't ended up in the field. I feel much more confident in the workplace for it. I would say the skills I learned studying journalism have probably been the most helpful and frequently used as a communicator - and not just in written form. This is extremely important in my current line of work.
I have also found the skills you learn in journalism useful when writing creative briefs, strategic documents, putting together presentations or just when needing to get information / assets from people when physically showing someone what you're referring to isn't an option. I don't think you need to be writing a news story for the skills you learn in journalism to be useful, that's for sure." Show less

"I decided to study at Bond due to its nice, convenient and close location as well as the interactive experience it offers. Studying a Bachelor of Communication majoring in the areas of advertising and interactive design, I found that having interactive and conversational type classes really aided me in my learning experience. I was also able to connect with like-minded people that shared similar passions and interests. Show more
"I decided to study at Bond due to its nice, convenient and close location as well as the interactive experience it offers. Studying a Bachelor of Communication majoring in the areas of advertising and interactive design, I found that having interactive and conversational type classes really aided me in my learning experience. I was also able to connect with like-minded people that shared similar passions and interests.
My Bond experience was quick but something I will cherish for a lifetime. I developed some amazing friendships with both my fellow classmates and lecturers. Bond definitely offers a nurturing experience with a vast range of people who have helped me learn as well as secure future positions in the workforce. I also have developed amazing skills, particularly in the area of design software and advertising strategy.
I have successfully completed an internship at White Bohemian working as a social media and marketing assistant. I was offered this opportunity through SCOUT, the Career Development Centre’s job seeking page. The internship has developed into full-time work now.
I found that the smaller class sizes and interactive learning environment was extremely beneficial to my overall learning experience. I was able to understand concepts greater and get help with ease. I was also able to network with these lecturers, who also held roles in the professional industry, and this has provided my with many opportunities in terms of potential employment in the future.
I would recommend studying at Bond University due to its nurturing and interactive learning environment, the ability to network and develop great connections and the overall positive and friendly environment of the campus and its people. Bond has provided me with the foundations to move forward in my industry and secure a great position." Show less

Key features

For-credit internship opportunities with established industry links
Engage with Bond’s large network of industry connections
Learn from nationally and internationally recognised academics

About the program

The Bachelor of Communication gives students the ideal mix of theory and practice, combining foundational studies in Communication and Media with focused studies in professional discipline including Journalism and Public Relations. It also allows students to pursue focused studies in the fields of Corporate Communication, Media and Advertising. The degree allows for a range of combinations of these studies, with students able to select a combination which will give them the best of both worlds; excellent career prospects and a stimulating course of study. Show less

Mode	On Campus
Duration	6 semesters (2 years)
Starting semesters	May 2019 September 2019 January 2020 May 2020 September 2020
Program type	Bachelors Degree
Study area	Communication and Creative Media
Program code	HS-20013
CRICOS code	063062J
Credit for prior study	For more details on applying for credit, please contact the Student Business Centre: [email protected]

Professional outcomes

Students are immersed in a range of professional experiences to give them a taste for the media careers to which they are aspiring. At the same time a sound theoretical framework underpins the studies so that students enter the communication and media industries understanding how to perform professional tasks and also knowing why such tasks are important to their work. Graduates could expect to find employment as an Account Manager, Copywriter, Event Coordinator, Journalist, Marketing Manager, Media Buyer or Public Relations Practitioner.

Structure and subjects

View the Bachelor of Communication - Program Structure and Sequencing

The Bachelor of Communication program comprises 24 subjects, as follows:

University core subjects (3)

CORE11-001 Critical Thinking and Communication (CORE 1)
CORE11-002 Leadership and Team Dynamics (CORE 2)
CORE11-003 Ethical Thought and Action (CORE 3)

Plus: Beyond Bond: Professional Development and Community Engagement

Communication major (6)

Students must choose six (6) of the following subjects:

Introduction to Research Methods (COMN12-213) (Mandatory)
Introduction to Communication (COMN11-101) (Mandatory)
Mass Media (COMN12-203) (Mandatory)
The Australian Media (JOUR11-101)
Interpersonal Communication (COMN12-205)
Digital Media and Society (COMN12-302)
Public Relations Principles and Practice (PUBR11-100)
Writing for News Media (JOUR11-100)

Specialist major (6)

Students must choose six (6) subjects from one of the following specialist areas:

Advertising
Communication
Corporate Communication
Film and Television*
Journalism*
Media
Multimedia
Public Relations
Social Media

* denotes a double major can be undertaken in this area

See the list below of "Specialist Majors" for details of each.

Electives or additional major (9)

Students must choose nine (9) elective subjects of which at least five (5) must come from the Faculty of Society & Design list of undergraduate subjects. Students are encouraged to choose six (6) subjects from one specialist area to constitute an additional major.

International students

To fulfil your student visa requirements, you will need to enrol in 40 credit points per semester.

Domestic students

Most students undertake four (4) subjects per semester (equivalent to 40 credit points). You may however enrol in fewer subjects and extend your degree over a longer period.

Teaching methodology

Bond University’s teaching methodology involves a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, examinations, projects, presentations, assignments, computer labs and industry projects.

Program fees

The below fees are based on an average per semester cost, fees may vary based on which subjects are selected and the number of subjects enrolled in for each semester:

2019 fees: $19,080 per semester (based on 4 subjects per semester)
2020 fees: $20,040 per semester (based on 4 subjects per semester)

When considering the fees associated with your studies, keep in mind that Bond’s accelerated schedule means you can finish your degree sooner and be out in the workforce up to a year earlier than if you went to another university.

This time saving also represents a substantial reduction in accommodation and living costs, plus a full year of extra earnings.

Find out your financing options and other living costs to consider.

Admission criteria

Academic requirements

Applicants with recent secondary education (within the past two years)

Applicants must meet the University's general minimum admission criteria.

In the January semester 2019 there were fewer than five OP/ATAR offers made in this program hence no comparative information on previous OP/ATAR intake scores is available.

Visit our student profile if you are interested in the profile of all students who commenced undergraduate study at the Faculty in the January semester 2019.

International Secondary School students

For more information for International Students, including the International Baccalaureate, please go to the International Secondary School equivalency page.

Alternative entry pathways

For those applicants who do not currently have the required academic qualifications, there are a number of alternative entry pathways:

Bond University Tertiary Preparation programs
Bond University Diploma programs
Other institutional Tertiary Preparation Programs
Vocational education and training qualifications (Certificate IV and above)
Prior higher education experience (at this university or another)
Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
Professional or para-professional qualifications/experience
Employment experience verified by a statement of service from the employer stating the position title and length of service and a very brief statement on the tasks undertaken.

For more information on what is required please visit our how to apply page.

English language proficiency requirements

As tuition is delivered in English, all students will be required to provide documented evidence of the required level of proficiency in the English language. Read more detailed information on English language proficiency requirements for university study.

Credit for prior study

Subject credits may be awarded for previous studies. To apply for credits, you will need to submit academic transcripts including detailed subject outlines/course descriptions for each relevant subject and/or certified copies of testamurs to the Office of Future Students. Please refer to how to apply for credit for more information

Key dates

Bond University calendar

How to apply

In order to apply for study at Bond University, you will need to complete the online application form. To find out more about the application process please refer to how to apply.

Learn from our experienced academics

Did you know that glossophobia, the fear of public speaking, is cited as the number one fear of the general population? Professor Mike Grenby, who teaches into Journalism and Communication, has delivered a NOW Talk alongside Bachelor of Communication student Rebecca Dipardo about how to overcome this fear and empower yourself to become a more confident speaker.

Specialist majors

Advertising

The major comprises of six (6) subjects:

Advertising Principles and Practice (ADVT11-100) (mandatory)

Plus 5 subjects from the following:

Communication & Corporate Communication

Communication major

The major comprises of six (6) subjects drawn from COMN subjects but must include Introduction to Communication.

Corporate Communication major

The major comprises of six (6) subjects drawn from

Film & Television

Film and Television major

The major comprises six (6) subjects and must include

Journalism

Journalism major

The major comprises six (6) subjects drawn from the JOUR offerings but must include

Journalism double major

The double major comprises twelve (12) subjects and includes all of those subjects previously listed, and three (3) drawn from

Please note that the BJOUR varies from the above, and does not allow a double major structure.

Television Journalism major

The double major comprises twelve (12) subjects and must include: