Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This degree combines practical production work with study of media practice, theory and ethics. Core subjects typically cover camera and lighting techniques, sound recording and design, editing and post‑production workflows, screenwriting and narrative development, directing for screen, and production management. Students also study digital media production for online platforms, documentary production, and the business and legal frameworks relevant to media work.

Learning is project‑based: you will plan and deliver short films, multi‑camera projects, documentary pieces and digital content, progressing from foundational technical skills to collaborative, industry‑standard productions. The course culminates in a major production or portfolio project that demonstrates your creative and technical capabilities.

• Camera, lighting and cinematography
• Sound recording and design
• Editing and post‑production (including industry software)
• Screenwriting and storytelling for screen
• Directing and production management
• Documentary and factual production
• Digital and social media content strategies
• Media law, ethics and professional practice

Entry requirements

Admission is normally based on successful completion of secondary school or an equivalent qualification. Mature‑age applicants and those with relevant vocational qualifications or work experience may be considered through alternative admission pathways.

All applicants must meet the university's English language requirements; international applicants will need to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications. Some campuses or units may require a short statement of interest, a portfolio of prior creative work, or an interview for selection into production streams.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a wide range of roles across screen, broadcast, online and corporate media sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Film and television production roles: assistant camera, production assistant, camera operator, assistant director
• Post‑production and editing: video editor, colourist, post‑production coordinator
• Sound and technical roles: sound recordist, boom operator, sound editor
• Creative and content roles: producer, director, screenwriter, content creator, social media producer
• Corporate and community media: communications officer, multimedia journalist, digital content producer

Graduates often build careers as freelancers or within production companies, broadcasters, digital agencies, cultural organisations and educational institutions.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises small class sizes and practice‑based learning, giving students substantial hands‑on time with cameras, studios and post‑production facilities. The course integrates ethical and community perspectives on media practice, reflecting ACU's commitment to social responsibility.

Students benefit from industry‑focused teaching, opportunities for work placements and collaborative projects, and support for building a professional portfolio. The university also offers pathways to further study and research in media, communications and related creative disciplines.