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Bachelor of Media and Communication – Public Relations

Shape narratives. Build reputations. Lead communication.

  • Become an expert at designing strategic campaigns, plan events, and solve PR challenges
  • Build and maintain relationships with traditional media, social media, and business networks
  • Learn how to craft press releases, public statements, promotional materials
  • Plan, execute, and evaluate PR campaigns and special events effectively
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100% Online

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Undergraduate

Qualification

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3 years full-time

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Mar, Jul, Nov

Start Dates

Icon Units

24

Units

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$2,174*

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OVERVIEW

Join the world of professional communication.

With this qualification, you will learn how to effectively influence and manage public perception and communicate with target audiences using engaging content, targeted messaging and strategic campaigns.

Through practical experience and authentic projects and PR planning, you will learn to manage a range of communication challenges and explore new media, event management, digital marketing and crisis communication.

Our graduates are equipped to work in a variety of public and private industries, including corporate communications, public affairs, marketing, and promotions and events.

The Bachelor of Media and Communication with a major in Public Relations offers valuable work integrate learning opportunities and is professionally accredited by the Communication and Public Relations Australia (CPRA), ensuring you’re ahead of the curve upon graduation.

Key Learnings Include

  • Professional Communication: Build your skills and confidence as a professional communicator.
  • Intercultural Communication: Learn how to effectively communicate within a multicultural society.
  • Campaign & Events Planning: Learn how to plan and manage PR campaigns and events, and evaluate their success using real industry case studies.
  • Writing: Develop industry-specific writing skills that will allow you to effectively engage and influence your audience.
  • Digital Communities: Understand communication theories in relation to social media, online communities and blogging.

Professional accreditations

Kate-Graduation-BW

‘The benefit of studying online with Swinburne Online has allowed me to schedule my time efficiently and effectively around [my life]. I have been provided with a world-class education led by industry leaders and professionals.’

Kate, Swinburne Online graduate

4.4% ▴

Dreaming of a career in Public Relations? PR roles are expected to increase by 4.4% in the next 5 years. (SEEK 2026)

Our Media and Communications courses have ranked in the Top 250 by the QS Top Universities Rankings for 2025.

‘The benefit of studying online with Swinburne Online has allowed me to schedule my time efficiently and effectively around [my life]. I have been provided with a world-class education led by industry leaders and professionals.’

Kate, Swinburne Online graduate

4.4% ▴

Dreaming of a career in Public Relations? PR roles are expected to increase by 4.4% in the next 5 years. (SEEK 2026)

Our Media and Communications courses have ranked in the Top 250 by the QS Top Universities Rankings for 2025.

Swinburne Online

Your Pathway to the career of your dreams

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Structure

Your course breakdown:

To be awarded the Bachelor of Media and Communication with a major in Public Relations you must complete 24 units in total made up of:

  • 5 Core Units
  • 8 Advertising Major Units
  • 11 Elective Units

Each year is split into 3 Teaching Periods (13 weeks per Teaching Period). You can choose to study full-time or part-time depending on your preference.

What you'll study:

 

Introduction to Media Studies

Communicating with Data

Media Content Creation

Global Media Industries

Learning and Communicating Online

Global Public Relations Practice

Introduction to Public Relations Theory and Practice

Public Relations Writing

Media and Communication Industry Project

Events Management

Issues, Crisis and Risk Communication

PR Campaign Planning and Management

Professional Communication Practice

Have a look at our available electives to make your course your own.

Entry Requirements

Entry Criteria

Applicants are required to meet one of the following minimum entry requirements:

  • A completed or partially completed tertiary qualification (e.g. relevant Certificate IVs, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Associate Degree, incomplete or complete Bachelor’s degree); or
  • 4+ years of relevant work experience; or
  • Recent Year 12 Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or equivalent completion, with the required English study score.

Want to discuss your eligibility for the Bachelor of Media and Communication with a major in Public Relations? Get in touch with our course consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss more today!

Credit for Prior Learning

If you have completed recent prior studies you may be eligible to request course credit or subject exemptions to reduce the duration and cost of your program.

Credit for prior learning evaluates your previous studies related to your chosen subjects.

This is assessed on a case by case basis, where every applicant is assessed individually.

To learn more and explore your potential credit for prior learning, get in touch with our Course Consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss your options!

Need more info?

We have plenty of resources to help you! Visit our Applying and Enrolling FAQs or chat with a Course Consultant for advice on your specific situation.

Fees & Scholarship

  • The estimated fee per unit is $2,174*.
  • There are 24 units in this course, each unit is worth 12.5 credit point units.

*Note: Unit fees may change each year.

There are several ways to help manage your course fees:

  • Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP): Available to Australian Citizens and eligible Permanent Residents, and this will help reduce your course fees.
  • HECS – HELP Loans: Available to Australian Citizens, which will help you defer your fees.
  • Learn more about HELP Loans

Please contact our Course Consultant to find out if you’re eligible for financial support.

There are a variety of Swinburne Scholarships to help reduce your costs.

  • University-funded scholarships
  • Government-funded scholarships
  • Private scholarships and prizes

Scholarships are available for both new and current students.

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student Scholarships

There are a range of scholarships available to support Indigenous students in minimising the costs of study materials, accommodation, relocation and more.

How it works:
1. Check eligibility
2. Gather the relevant documentation
3. Produce a personal statement
4. Obtain your references
5. Apply online here

Please contact our Course Consultant to find out if you’re eligible for Swinburne Scholarships.

Credit for prior study:

  • Good news — if you’re awarded academic credit for prior study, your course fees could be lower! This means a cheaper degree!

Services & amenities fee:

For more details on scholarships and financial support, visit the Swinburne website or speak with our Course Consultant team today!

Career Outcomes

Career Opportunities

Let’s take a look at the wide range of roles you can pursue with a Bachelor of Media and Communication with a major in Public Relations (average annual salaries via Seek):

$80,000 to $100,000 Average Salary

Assist with an organisation's communication activities, including developing and implementing communication strategies, creating content, and managing communication channels. Play a crucial role in promoting brands, products, or projects by crafting and distributing engaging content.

Assist with an organisation's communication activities, including developing and implementing communication strategies, creating content, and managing communication channels. Play a crucial role in promoting brands, products, or projects by crafting and distributing engaging content.

$70,000 to $77,500 Average Salary

Manage and enhance an organisation's public image and reputation through various communication strategies. This involves developing and implementing PR campaigns, crafting and distributing media materials, managing media relations, and organising events to promote positive public perception.

Manage and enhance an organisation's public image and reputation through various communication strategies. This involves developing and implementing PR campaigns, crafting and distributing media materials, managing media relations, and organising events to promote positive public perception.

$58,500 to $84,000 Average Salary

Develop and implement comprehensive social media strategies to enhance a brand's online presence and engagement. This role requires strong communication, analytical, and collaboration skills, as strategists work with various teams and stakeholders.

Develop and implement comprehensive social media strategies to enhance a brand's online presence and engagement. This role requires strong communication, analytical, and collaboration skills, as strategists work with various teams and stakeholders.

$110,000 to $130,000 Average Salary

Manage an organisation's public image and reputation through strategic communication and event planning. They act as a spokesperson, build relationships with stakeholders, and analyse the effectiveness of communication efforts.

Manage an organisation's public image and reputation through strategic communication and event planning. They act as a spokesperson, build relationships with stakeholders, and analyse the effectiveness of communication efforts.

$110,000 to $135,000 Average Salary

Develop and implement strategies to enhance an organization's public image and manage communication with stakeholders. They also play a crucial role in crisis communication and reputation management.

Develop and implement strategies to enhance an organization's public image and manage communication with stakeholders. They also play a crucial role in crisis communication and reputation management.

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Your pathway to a successful career in Public Relations!

This bachelor’s degree teaches students to manage reputation and influence public opinion through communication and promotional skills.

  • Projects: Gain experience working on real campaigns and projects.
  • Skills: Equip yourself with practical, industry-relevant skills in both digital and traditional advertising.
  • Skill Development: Develop key skills in copywriting, campaign planning, client and agency management, and professional communication.
  • Learn from the Best: Your learning advisors are professionals themselves, keeping your education aligned and connected to career opportunities.

Online Study

An online study experience designed for you

Each degree is thoughtfully designed for online learning, ensuring your experience is fulfilling and supported. At Swinburne Online, we want to ensure that your journey with us is a success. Our team of academic and online experts have developed engaging, media-rich course materials using cutting-edge digital technology and advanced teaching resources.

Your online study journey

 

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Here’s what you can expect

  • Personalise your study journey with full-time or part-time options — 100% online, no travel needed.
  • Start when it suits you with multiple intake dates.
  • Study on your terms, balancing life, family, and work — anytime, anywhere.
  • Stay connected with students and industry experts through discussion boards and virtual classrooms.
  • Get support 7 days a week for general help whenever you need it.
  • Learn with confidence with dedicated online tutors for each unit, ready to answer all your academic questions.

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Your online classroom - Canvas

Canvas is where all your classwork will take place. You’ll experience engaging lectures, tackle assignments, and connect with others on lively discussion boards. All within an easy-to-use platform. Stay on top of your progress, plan your studies with ease, and set your own pace — whether you want to fast-track your degree with up to 12 units a year or take it slow with part-time study. It’s all about balancing your studies with the rest of your life!

FLEXIBLE STUDY AT SWINBURNE ONLINE

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Your Online Campus: The Student Hub

  • The Student Hub is your one-stop online university campus where you’ll have access to course management tools, technical support, library resources, and more!
  • Find everything you need to manage your studies and university services.
  • Stay connected and empowered throughout your learning journey all from one easy to use location.
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Dedicated student support

You are supported at every stage of your journey with Swinburne Online, from enrolment and your first day through to graduation. Our dedicated teams are here to help you stay on track, feel confident, and succeed in your studies.

Support tailored to you:

    • Our Student Advisors are your go to guides, available 7 days a week to support you with course planning, technical support, and other any questions you may have along the way.
    • Our Online Learning Advisors (OLAs) will support you in every unit with unit information, learning materials, assessments, and referencing.
    • Our Student Coaches will help you build motivation, set goals, and develop effective study habits so you can stay focused and succeed.

With ongoing access to support, tools, and resources, you are never studying alone with Swinburne Online.

Indigenous Student Services

Access opportunities. Get tailored support with your studies. Thrive as an Indigenous student with the team at the Moondani Toombadool Centre.

Moondani Toombadool means ‘embracing teaching and learning’ in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri People. Established in 2018, the Moondani Toombadool Centre (MTC) handles all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander matters at Swinburne. This includes governance, student services, teaching and learning, research, staff, culture and engagement. Student services include but are not limited to:

    • Dedicated student support services
    • Indigenous Academic Support Program (IASP)
    • Cultural and engagement programs
    • Networking opportunities, career support and much more

Learn more about units, fees, entry criteria, career outcomes and more.

Download a course guide

The Swinburne Online-SEEK connection

The suite of Swinburne Online Business degrees provides students with the opportunity to forge connections within the industry. Students hear from industry leaders and work with real-life clients with demonstrated experience within their respective fields, such as SEEK.