Postgraduate - Course3064 - Master of Communications and Media Studies

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. Students examine 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 course 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.

These course outcomes are aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework level 9, the Bologna Cycle 2 and Monash Graduate AttributesAustralian Qualifications Framework level 9, the Bologna Cycle 2 and Monash Graduate Attributes (http://opvclt.monash.edu.au/curriculum-by-design/aligning-course-outcomes-with-aqf-bologna.html).

Upon successful completion of this course it is expected that graduates will be able to:

• demonstrate a sound knowledge of diverse aspects of the academic discipline
• articulate and apply an understanding of the world view of the field of study
• demonstrate a critical appreciation of the secondary literature in the field of study
• apply a critical familiarity with many of the key texts and cultural products pertaining to the field of study
• apply advanced reading and communication skills, both written and verbal
• demonstrate advanced analytical skills
• demonstrate a thorough understanding of research methodology and ethics, and an ability to undertake a small, independent research project in one of the disciplines represented in the program.

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). All units are 12 points unless otherwise indicated.

Level four

Students must complete:

• APG4894 Communications theories and practices
• APG4396 Researching and writing Australia
• two level-four electives from the list below

Level five

Students must complete:

• APG5742 Industry research project
• one level-five elective from the list below (not already taken at fourth year level)

Electives

• APG4018/APG5018 Celebrity, fashion, publicity
• APG4397/APG5397 Media, technologies and social change
• APG4398/APG5398 New communications media
• APG4399/APG5399 Media, ethics and practice
• APG4400/APG5400 Issues in international communications
• APG4401/APG5401 Media empires and entrepreneurs
• APG4352 Field trip in media and communications
• APG5743 Industry research thesis (24 points)*
• APG5751 Communications industry internship

* Students may undertake this unit instead of two of the electives if they have achieved a minimum distinction average and with the approval of the coordinator.

Students may apply to exit after successful completion of:

• 24 points with a Graduate Certificate in Communications and Media Studies.
• 48 points with a Graduate Diploma in Communication and Media Studies.

Master of Communications and Media Studies