University of Technology Sydney

What you'll study

This degree blends core communication disciplines with social and political science perspectives. You will learn to analyse political systems, public policy, social movements and media environments while developing practical skills in writing, digital communication, research methods and campaign design.

Typical modules and topics

• Foundations of Communication: media theory, audience analysis and public communication practice
• Introduction to Politics and Government: political institutions, comparative politics and civic processes
• Public Policy and Administration: policy cycles, policy evaluation and stakeholder engagement
• Research Methods for Social and Political Sciences: qualitative and quantitative methods, survey and interview techniques, basic statistical analysis
• Digital Media and Politics: social media campaigning, digital advocacy and information ecosystems
• Media, Power and Society: media regulation, political economy of communication and ethics
• Campaigns, Advocacy and Public Affairs: message development, lobbying, grassroots mobilisation and campaign strategy
• Capstone or Major Project: a supervised research or practice-based project that integrates communication and political/social analysis

Structure and learning opportunities

The programme is typically completed over three years full time and is composed of core units, elective options and a major capstone experience. Learning combines lectures and seminars with practical workshops, group projects and assessed placements. Many students undertake work-integrated learning or industry placements and have the option to choose electives from related areas such as international relations, sociology, media production or data analytics.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and generally requires completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or an equivalent secondary qualification from overseas. The university considers academic records and may use an ATAR-equivalent threshold for admission. Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements, usually demonstrated by a recognised test score (for example IELTS, TOEFL) or approved alternative.

UTS also recognises alternative entry pathways including recognised prior learning, vocational qualifications, and portfolio or interview processes where appropriate. Specific entry conditions can vary, so prospective students should consult the UTS admissions pages or contact the admissions office for personalised advice.

Career prospects

Graduates combine communication capability with political and policy knowledge, preparing them for roles across government, media, advocacy and the private sector. Common career paths include:

• Public policy analyst or policy officer in government and public sector agencies
• Communications advisor, media relations practitioner or press officer
• Campaign strategist, political organiser or advocacy officer for NGOs and interest groups
• Journalist or political reporter, particularly in beats that require policy literacy
• Community engagement or stakeholder relations roles in corporate, cultural or civic organisations
• Research assistant or program evaluator in think tanks, research institutes and universities
• Digital strategist or social media manager focusing on public affairs and civic engagement

The degree’s practical orientation and placement opportunities help graduates build industry networks and a portfolio of work evidence attractive to employers.

Why study at University of Technology Sydney

UTS is located in the centre of Sydney and emphasises practice‑based learning, industry engagement and contemporary skills. The university offers strong links to government, media organisations, NGOs and industry partners, which support placements and collaborative projects.

Students benefit from applied teaching formats—workshops, live briefs and capstone projects—that develop professional communication and research skills. Facilities and learning spaces are designed to support collaborative media and research work, and students can access specialist units and electives that reflect current trends in digital communication, policy development and civic participation.

UTS also provides support for international students and offers recognised pathways and cross-disciplinary study options, enabling students to tailor the degree to specific career goals in public affairs, media, research or advocacy.