Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Course

This course focuses on challenges posed by the emergence of digital media, globalisation and increasing levels of cross-cultural exchange. The last decade has been one of unprecedented change in communications and media content, forms, technology and policy with wide-ranging implications for business, politics, public administration and everyday life. The graduate program in communications and media studies examines these developments from a historical, political and theoretical perspective. The Master of Communications and Media Studies seeks to further students' understanding of communications and media systems both locally and globally.

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.

Students successfully completing this course will have:

• a sound knowledge of main principles of communications and media studies
• an understanding of the theoretical approaches and areas of practical application of the field of study
• a critical appreciation of the secondary literature in the field of study
• a familiarity with many of the key texts and cultural products pertaining to the field of study
• advanced reading and communication skills, both written and verbal
• advanced analytical skills
• a grasp of research methodologies and ethics appropriate to communications and media studies, and an ability to undertake independent research in the field.

This course consists of four level-four 12-point units, plus two level-five 12-point units or a 24-point research thesis (with approval of the coordinator).

Level four

Core units

• APG4894 Communications theories and practices
• APG4396 Researching and writing Australia

Electives

Two of:

• APG4397 The first media age
• APG4398 New communications media
• APG4399 Media ethics and practice
• APG4400 Issues in international communications
• APG4401 Media empires and entrepreneurs
• ATS4352 Field trip in media and communications

Level five

Core unit

• APG5742 Industry research project

Electives

One of the following (not already taken at fourth year level):

• APG5397 The first media age
• APG5398 New communications media
• APG5399 Media, ethics and practice
• APG5400 Issues in international communications
• APG5401 Media empires and entrepreneurs
• APG5751 Communications industry internship
• APG5752 Field trip in media and communications

Alternatively students may undertake the following, if they have achieved a minimum distinction average and with the approval of the coordinator:

• APG5743 Industry research thesis (24 points)

Students may apply to exit after successful completion of:

• 24 points with course 3065 Graduate Certificate in Communications and Media Studies.
• 48 points with course 1398 Graduate Diploma in Communication and Media Studies.

Master of Communications and Media Studies