University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This programme combines critical study of media and culture with hands‑on practice in contemporary media forms. Core themes include media theory and history, cultural studies, audience and industry analysis, digital and social media practices, and research methods. Students examine how media operate across local, national and global contexts and how cultural meanings are produced, contested and circulated.

• Core topics: Media and Society; Media Histories; Cultural Theory; Audience Studies; Media Industries; Media Policy and Regulation.
• Practical and production units: Digital Storytelling; Multimedia Production; Social Media Strategy; Audio and Video Production; Content Design.
• Research and professional skills: Research Methods for Media; Ethics and Law in Media; Internship/Industry Placement options; Capstone project or honours pathway for research‑oriented students.
• Electives: Film and Television Studies; Journalism foundations; Public Relations and Strategic Communication; Cultural Heritage and Museums; Global Media and Migration.
• Structure: The degree is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and production laboratories, with assessment that may include essays, media projects, presentations and a final project or placement.

Entry requirements

Admission is normally based on satisfactory completion of secondary school with a recognised senior secondary qualification or equivalent. The University of Adelaide considers domestic applicants using their state‑based selection rank or its equivalent, while international applicants are assessed on recognised overseas qualifications (for example, International Baccalaureate) and evidence of English language proficiency.

• Academic background: Strong performance in senior secondary studies is expected. There are typically no specific subject prerequisites, though prior study in English, media, humanities or social sciences is advantageous.
• Alternative pathways: Applicants with completed TAFE/diploma programs, portfolios of creative work, relevant work experience, or those who have completed recognised bridging programs may be eligible for entry.
• English language: International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through accepted tests or previous study in English; specific score requirements are published by the university.
• Selection considerations: Where competition is strong, selection may take into account academic results, personal statements, portfolios for practical units, and relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates develop a mix of analytical, research and production skills valued across media, cultural and communication sectors. The degree prepares students for both creative and strategic roles and for further study in media, communication or cultural policy.

• Content creator, multimedia producer or production assistant
• Social media strategist, digital marketing coordinator or community manager
• Communications or public relations officer
• Media researcher, policy analyst or audience analyst
• Cultural programmer, arts officer or events coordinator
• Journalism and editorial roles, or pathways into postgraduate research and honours

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a research‑led learning environment with opportunities to engage directly with media industries and cultural organisations. Students benefit from access to digital media labs and production facilities, academic staff active in media and cultural research, and industry links that support placements and project collaborations.

• Industry connections: Local and national partnerships that help with internships and practical experience.
• Research strengths: Opportunities to learn from scholars working in media, cultural studies and communication research.
• Flexible learning: A range of electives and cross‑disciplinary options that allow students to tailor their degree toward production, policy, journalism or cultural practice.
• Graduate pathways: Clear progression into professional roles or further study, including honours and postgraduate degrees in media, communication and related fields.