UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY · NEW ZEALAND
Media and Communication Study Options
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Highly-rated teaching and learningStudent satisfaction above Arts average
- Bachelor of CommunicationThree-year degree for journalism, PR, and communication advisors
- BA HonoursOne-year intensive program for deeper critical analysis
- Graduate Diploma in JournalismOne-year program for practical journalism training
- Masters and PhD studyResearch opportunities with internationally recognized scholars
The University of Canterbury offers a range of study options in Media and Communication designed to prepare students for careers in journalism, public relations, and communication advisory roles. These programs emphasize contemporary issues, multimedia examples, and practical relevance, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the demands of the modern communication landscape. Student feedback consistently rates teaching and learning in this department as well above the Arts average, highlighting the approachability of lecturers and the applicability of the curriculum.
Curriculum
The Media and Communication department offers several pathways, including a Bachelor of Communication, BA Honours, a Graduate Diploma in Journalism, and postgraduate research degrees.
- Bachelor of Communication (Year 1)
- Introduction to Media and CommunicationCOMS 1xx
- Bachelor of Communication (Year 2)
- Intermediate Media and Communication StudiesCOMS 2xx
- Bachelor of Communication (Year 3)
- Advanced Media and Communication StudiesCOMS 3xx
- BA Honours
- Media Research MethodsCOMS 450
- Research DissertationCOMS 480
Careers
Graduates in Media and Communication are well-prepared for a variety of roles in the industry. The skills developed are highly valued in both government and the private sector, particularly for positions requiring advanced analytical and research capabilities.
- Journalist
- Public Relations Practitioner
- Communication Advisor
- Communication Officer
- Government Policy Researcher
- Radio Broadcaster
- Marketing Executive
- Advertising Sales Representative
- Events Organiser
- Government Operations Officer
- Publisher Representative
- Government Research Officer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Communication program?
- The Bachelor of Communication is open to all students with entry to university. No specific high school subject background is required. You will need to meet general university admission criteria and English language proficiency requirements.
- How much does the Media and Communication program cost for international students?
- International tuition fees for this program are not specified in the provided data. Please contact the University of Canterbury directly for precise tuition fee information.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from this program?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Journalist, Public Relations Practitioner, Communication Advisor, and Marketing Executive. The skills developed are valuable in both government and the private sector.
- How can international students apply to the Media and Communication program?
- International students should check the university's admissions pages for specific entry requirements and deadlines. The application process involves checking requirements, preparing documents, submitting an online application, and then accepting an offer and paying fees.
- What is the duration of the Bachelor of Communication degree?
- The Bachelor of Communication is a three-year degree. Other study options like the BA Honours and Graduate Diploma in Journalism are one-year programs.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students in Media and Communication?
- While specific scholarships for Media and Communication international students are not detailed, options like the Manaaki NZ Scholarships (government-funded for developing countries) and general UC Scholarships are available. It is recommended to check the university's scholarship portal for further details.
Entry requirements
Bachelor of CommunicationOpen to all students with entry to university. No specific high school subject background is required.
COMS 200-level coursesMust have passed one 100-level COMS course, or have at least a B average in 60 points of relevant coursework (waiver may apply).
COMS 300-level coursesMust have passed two 200-level COMS courses (waiver may apply for students with good marks elsewhere taking one 300-level course).
Major in COMSAt least 7 COMS courses: two 100-level, three 200-level, and two 300-level. Must also meet the BA's 360-point overall requirement.
BA HonoursB+ average in at least two 300-level COMS courses, plus completion of BA degree requirements. Enrolment subject to approval of the Department Coordinator.
Graduate Diploma in JournalismCompletion of a bachelor's degree.
Masters DegreeAn Honours degree or equivalent, or a 3-year Bachelor's degree with strong academic record.
Prerequisites for 200-level and 300-level COMS courses may be waived under certain conditions. For Masters, an Honours-level certification in Media and Communication is preferred but other majors may be considered.
Fees
Tuition (international)Contact the university for specific international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Domestic tuition fees apply to NZ citizens, Australian citizens, and those with NZ Residence Class Visa or Australian Permanent Residence living in NZ. Fees are typically paid per course ('pay-as-you-learn').
LivingContact the university for estimated living costs.
MBA fees are approximately NZD $43,931 for 2026 (180 points, conditions apply), with domestic students having a pay-as-you-learn option.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsReview the academic and English language requirements specific to your chosen program.
2. Prepare DocumentsGather all necessary supporting documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, and proof of English proficiency.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form through the University of Canterbury's admissions portal.
4. Receive OfferIf successful, you will receive an offer of place.
5. Accept Offer and Pay FeesAccept the offer and arrange payment of tuition fees and any other required deposits.
6. Apply for VisaOnce your offer is confirmed and fees are paid, apply for your New Zealand student visa.
7. EnrolComplete your enrolment upon arrival at the University of Canterbury.
Scholarships
Gough MBA Leaders ScholarshipFinancial support and access to an exclusive leadership program
Graduate Women Canterbury (Inc.) Trust Board ScholarshipVariable
Pacific Community ScholarshipVariable
Ngāi Tahu Research Centre Postgraduate ScholarshipVariable
Manaaki NZ ScholarshipsFull scholarship
UC ScholarshipsVariable
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Communication program?
+
The Bachelor of Communication is open to all students with entry to university. No specific high school subject background is required. You will need to meet general university admission criteria and English language proficiency requirements.
How much does the Media and Communication program cost for international students?
+
International tuition fees for this program are not specified in the provided data. Please contact the University of Canterbury directly for precise tuition fee information.
What are the career prospects after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Journalist, Public Relations Practitioner, Communication Advisor, and Marketing Executive. The skills developed are valuable in both government and the private sector.
How can international students apply to the Media and Communication program?
+
International students should check the university's admissions pages for specific entry requirements and deadlines. The application process involves checking requirements, preparing documents, submitting an online application, and then accepting an offer and paying fees.
What is the duration of the Bachelor of Communication degree?
+
The Bachelor of Communication is a three-year degree. Other study options like the BA Honours and Graduate Diploma in Journalism are one-year programs.
Are there any scholarships available for international students in Media and Communication?
+
While specific scholarships for Media and Communication international students are not detailed, options like the Manaaki NZ Scholarships (government-funded for developing countries) and general UC Scholarships are available. It is recommended to check the university's scholarship portal for further details.