University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This degree blends practical journalism units with creative writing workshops and literature studies. Core journalism topics typically include news reporting and writing, multimedia storytelling, investigative techniques, editing and sub-editing, media law and ethics, and digital and social media production. Creative writing components focus on fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, scriptwriting and genre studies, with an emphasis on craft, voice and revision.

Study structure commonly features a mix of compulsory core units, discipline-specific majors or minors, and electives. Students work through skills-based studios and workshops, complete project-based assessments such as feature packages or a writing portfolio, and usually undertake a capstone project or practicum that brings together journalistic practice and creative work. Electives often allow exploration of related areas such as public relations, screen studies, publishing, or cultural studies.

Entry requirements

Admission is normally based on completion of senior secondary school or an equivalent qualification. Applicants should demonstrate strong English language skills; domestic applicants will need the University’s standard English prerequisites, and international applicants must meet recognised English language requirements (for example, an accepted academic English test score or equivalent qualification). The University also considers alternative entry pathways including tertiary transfer, mature-age entry and recognised prior learning.

Some applicants may be asked to provide a short writing sample or undertake an interview, particularly for competitive entry or selection into specific majors. It’s important to check the University of Adelaide admissions pages for the most up-to-date information on prerequisites and pathway options.

Career prospects

Graduates from a journalism and creative writing degree typically move into roles across media, communications and the creative industries. Common career paths include:

• Journalist – reporting for newspapers, magazines, online outlets, radio and television;
• Editor and sub-editor – shaping content in newsrooms, magazines and publishing houses;
• Content writer and copywriter – producing branded content for organisations and agencies;
• Communications and public relations officer – managing corporate or nonprofit messaging and media relations;
• Social media and digital producer – creating and managing content across platforms;
• Author, scriptwriter or creative freelancer – producing books, scripts or long-form narrative projects;
• Publishing and editorial roles – working in literary publishing, rights and production.

Students also gain transferable skills valued by employers: critical thinking, research, storytelling, multimedia production and effective written and verbal communication.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers access to experienced academic staff who combine industry experience with research in media and creative practice. Students benefit from hands-on learning supported by digital production facilities, workshops and opportunities to publish and broadcast work through student media platforms and industry placements.

Located in a city with a rich cultural scene and festivals, the University provides connections to local media, publishers and arts organisations, enabling practical experience and networking. The degree’s interdisciplinary structure also allows students to tailor study with electives across humanities, arts and communication, preparing graduates for a diverse range of careers in the contemporary media and creative sectors.