University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This degree blends core media and communication studies with technical and creative web design units. You will study digital media production, web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript fundamentals), responsive and accessible design, user experience (UX) principles, content strategy and digital storytelling. Modules typically cover visual design and interaction, multimedia production (audio, video, motion graphics), content management systems, project management for digital projects and ethics and law in digital media.

The program structure includes foundational media and communication theory, practical studio and lab-based units, electives to specialise in areas such as UX design or front-end development, and project-based units culminating in a capstone industry project or portfolio subject. Learning is a mix of lectures, tutorials, workshops and hands-on studio time, with assessments often centred on production briefs, individual and group projects, and a final professional portfolio.

• Core topics: media and communication theory, digital media production, multimedia storytelling, digital ethics
• Technical skills: HTML/CSS, introductory JavaScript, responsive frameworks, CMS usage
• Design and experience: visual design, interaction design, information architecture, user research
• Professional practice: project workflows, client briefs, pitching, portfolio development

Entry requirements

Admission is generally based on completion of an Australian senior secondary qualification or an equivalent overseas qualification with a competitive score. Applicants may also be considered via recognised prior learning, diploma pathways or bridging programs. International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements.

For design-focused streams, a digital or visual portfolio is often recommended to demonstrate creative skills and prior work, though it may not be mandatory for all applicants. Mature-age applicants with relevant workplace experience and strong motivation are encouraged to enquire about alternative entry pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in digital media, design and communications. Common career paths include:

• Web designer or front-end developer producing responsive websites and interfaces
• User experience (UX) or interaction designer conducting user research and prototyping
• Digital producer or content strategist managing multimedia projects and online content
• Social media and community manager creating platform-specific campaigns and engagement
• Multimedia specialist or digital content creator working with video, audio and interactive formats
• Freelance designer/developer or consultant supporting small businesses and agencies

Graduates can work across agencies, in-house communication teams, government and cultural institutions, tech and start-up environments, or pursue further study in media, design or computing-related fields.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a media and digital curriculum embedded within a research-intensive university, providing access to experienced academic staff and industry-aligned teaching. Students benefit from hands-on studio and lab facilities, collaborative projects with industry partners, and opportunities to build a professional portfolio through real-world briefs and capstone projects.

The program supports cross-disciplinary learning, enabling students to take electives from areas such as computer science, business or creative arts to broaden technical or entrepreneurial skills. Career services, industry networking events and internship pathways help students transition into the workforce or start independent practice.