Master of Communications and Media Studies

Course code: 3064 ~ Course abbreviation: MComn&MediaSt ~ Total credit points required: 72 ~ 1.5 years full-time, 3 years part-time ~ Managing faculty: Arts

Study mode and course location

On-campus (Caulfield)*

* All classes are taught in Melbourne Central Business District

Course description

This course seeks to further students' understanding of the history, production and reception of traditional and new media both globally, and with particular reference to Australia, Malaysia and Singapore. Contemporary policy debates in these and other nations are studied as responses to changing processes of mediation and consumption. More widely, the degree aims to develop skills in communications and media research.

The program is particularly designed to focus on themes relevant to those employed (or seeking employment) in communications and media industries (for instance, electronic journalism, policy formulation, public relations, and tourism marketing) and to those wishing to develop expertise in communications and media studies for purposes of teaching or further study.

Course objectives

Students successfully completing this course will have: 1. a sound knowledge of diverse aspects of the academic discipline; 2. an understanding of the world view of the field of study; 3. a critical appreciation of the secondary literature in the field of study; 4. a familiarity with many of the key texts and cultural products pertaining to the field of study; 5. advanced reading and communication skills, both written and verbal; 6. advanced analytical skills; 7. a grasp of research methodology and ethics, and an ability to undertake a small, independent research project in one of the disciplines represented in the program.

Minimum pass grade

To graduate with the Masters, students must gain a credit (60 C) or above in core units and a minimum credit average overall.

Course structure

Candidates must satisfactorily complete 72 points of study, comprising four level 4 and two level 5, 12-point, semester-length units as outlined below.

Course requirements

Level 4

Core units

COM4001 Researching and writing Australia
COM4009 Issues in international communications

Electives

One of the following:

COM4006 New communications media
COM4010 Communications, convergence and public policy

One of the following:

COM4002 Communications and media history
COM4008 Media, ethics and practice

Electives to the value of 12 points offered within the faculty or another faculty may be taken with the approval of the course coordinator

Level 5

Core unit

COM5004 Industry research project

Electives

One of the following:

COM5006 New communications media (if COM4009 not taken)
COM5010 Communications, convergence and public policy (if COM4010 not taken)

Alternatively, students may, with the approval of the course coordinator, take the following:

COM5011 Industry research thesis (24 points).

Exit points

After successful completion of 24 points, students may apply to exit the program with a Graduate Certificate in Communications and Media Studies, or after successful completion of 48 points with a Graduate Diploma in Communications and Media Studies.

Course coordinator

Dr Mark Gibson