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Bachelor of Digital Media
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2024
Start Date
January, April, June, September
Duration
3 year(s) full-time
Mode
Online
Time Commitment
10 - 15 hours per week per course
Program Code
XBDM
Study as
Full-time
or part-time
Fees
AUD$ 25,500 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024
Admissions
Student Profile
- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
- IELTS speaking [6.0]
- IELTS listening [6.0]
International Admission by Country
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result:
Higher education study
- Successfully completed equivalent to a minimum of half a year of full-time study of a higher education program at a recognised higher education provider
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience (for domestic students only)- Passed a UniSA Online literacy and numeracy test and have relevant work experience, or
- Completed a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Qualify for Special Entry
OR
Recent secondary education- Completed a secondary education qualification equivalent to SACE, such as an interstate year 12 or international qualification
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
NoneEnglish language entry requirements
In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.English language testPlease access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
- IELTS speaking [6.0]
- IELTS listening [6.0]
Admission Requirements by Country
Bangladesh HSC 3.5 Canada High School (OSSD) 60 Eynesbury FSP 310 German Abitur 3.8 Kenya KCSE (average) B Malaysia STPM (best 3) 6 Malaysia UEC 32 Norway GPA 2.8 Pakistan HSSC 75 Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3) 6 Sweden GPA 12.5 UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board 6 Vietnam 7 Australia 65 IB (best 6) 26 USA SAT (1600) 1050 India (best 4) State Board 70 India (best 4) Central Board 60 HKDSE 15 Nepal NEB 2.41
Degree overview
- Develop essential digital skills including graphic and web design, social media management, content creation, video and audio production, animation and digital storytelling.
- Upskill in a range of digital areas required by businesses, government departments and not-for-profits who are increasingly bringing digital functions in-house.
- Get hands-on using the latest digital software and graduate with an industry-standard portfolio of work.
- Bring creative ideas to life in visually engaging ways to help businesses and their brands communicate with people more effectively.
- Explore how digital media has transformed the GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums) sector and removed boundaries between cultural institutions and audiences around the world.
- Complement your digital media expertise with electives from a range of disciplines including business, marketing, IT and data analytics, and communication.
Snapshot
Study On Demand – a 100% online digital media degree designed specifically for online learning. Take full control over your study - access support seven days a week, plan your study to fit around your life, view learning resources 24/7, and log into the interactive online environment anywhere, any time and on any device.
Learn to unlock your creativity, and bring your ideas to life in visually engaging ways – whether that be through an animation that grabs someone’s interest, a video that moves people to act, an online game that helps students learn, or a social media campaign that goes viral!
Our digital media degree is a primer into the broad range of practical and technical skills that employers are telling us they need. You’ll learn in a creative environment that integrates the latest technology and creative practice, using the latest Adobe Creative Cloud software that you’ll have access to for free.
At the end of your degree, you'll come out as an excellent visual storyteller with a broad foundation in essential design skills including video and documentary production, animation and visual effects, digital humanities and graphic design.
Learn more about what jobs you can get with a digital media degree >
What you'll learn
The Bachelor of Digital Media is an innovative degree that gives you the technical skills and capabilities for a career in the creative media industries.
You will learn about:
- digital humanities, and you’ll develop skills in video and documentary production
- the creative process, digital forms of interactive text and image making, web design, multimedia and digital design
- historical and cultural views of contemporary media scapes within the digital environment
- how the GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museum) sector has been radically transformed by technological innovation.
You can tailor your degree to your interests and broaden your career prospects through your choice of electives. You can select four electives from any other UniSA Online degrees.
Become a social media expert
Elevate your communications career with social media skills. Learn to develop and implement social media campaigns to gain followers and create conversations with your audiences. Write engaging online content, create content calendars and develop social media schedules.
In addition to relevant core courses in the degree, choose the following courses as part of your elective sequence to graduate with a minor in social media:
- Content Creation for Media
- Media Law and Ethics
- Social Media Engagement.
Learn more about the skills you need to work in digital media >
Study hours
Studying 100% online means you can engage with course materials at your own pace, whenever it suits you – there is no need to be online at a particular time. It’s flexible around your life so you can control your study schedule week by week. As a general rule, we recommend 10 to 15 hours of study a week for each course.
Assessment
All assessments, including exams (if required) are 100% online, meaning you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or find an exam venue.
Some of your assessments may include:
- an industry-relevant project
- an online presentation
- essays and reports.
Please note, courses may not be displayed in order of study.
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Rules & notes
Rules
Go here to the see the complete UniSA Online electives list.
1. When choosing electives, students may select any course in the UniSA Online electives list subject to pre-requisite requirements and availability.
Notes
1. Students are required to have access and make use of a digital drawing tablet in order to complete this course. It is recommended that the hardware access and suitable experience in its use is gained in the first year prior to the commencement of the course.
2. This course is recommended for students who are new to university studies or require development in academic and research skills.
Study Digital Media on Demand
Dr Claire Aitchison, Academic Developer: UniSA Online gives an insight into what the Digital Media degree is about, and how the degree has been designed to suit busy adults on the go.
Why Bachelor of Digital Media
Practical experience is an important focus of this degree. Right from the beginning, you'll be working on projects that you can add to your digital portfolio - and potentially use to land that next big role.
Our teachers have years of professional experience so you’ll be learning from some of the most experienced, innovative and tech-savvy people in the field. You'll also benefit from our close relationships with industry experts. We have strong relationships with creative agencies such as Kojo Productions, Frame Creative and the Media Resource Centre.
In a dynamic and innovative field, staying on top of digital trends is important. Your studies will cover the most current practices using the latest technologies and digital media that are leading and informing the way we communicate.
You’ll learn in an immersive online environment, supported by designers and educators skilled in a variety of digital media disciplines. You’ll have the opportunity to engage and connect with others and practice critiquing other’s work – something that creative industry workers do all the time. Your interactions with teaching staff and fellow students will mirror the collaborative relationships you will experience as a digital media professional, setting you up well for your future career.
Learn more about the differences between digital design and graphic design >
Your career
Almost half of those employed in creative occupations work within non-creative industries - these are often referred to as ‘embedded’ creative roles – and these types of jobs are on the rise. As more businesses bring digital and design functions in-house, more opportunities are being created for people with these skills.
Creative roles are found in almost every industry - from business, healthcare, financial services, IT, to community organisations, not-for-profit and government departments. Freelance careers are currently on the rise and popular among professionals in the creative industries because of the flexibility it brings.
A UniSA Online Digital Media degree can help you pursue the following careers:
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Digital content creator/ producer: possess a broad technical skill set and an excellent understanding of digital media to create blog posts, videos, memes, GIFs, infographics, podcasts; and work with analytics and search engine optimisation tools.
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Digital and social media manager: research social media platforms and tools; develop social media campaign strategies and plans, implement and monitor social activity; integrate social media elements into broader communication functions; and develop social media engagement policies for the workplace.
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Online journalist: combine traditional reporting skills with digital technology to develop interesting and engaging stories, and interact with audiences in new ways; present news and features on current affairs in the form of text, photos, audio and/or videos, and disseminate news through digital media technology and social media channels.
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Visual communication designer: responsible for a broad range of visual communication design elements including website design and development, video production, art, illustration and graphic design; and use software applications to create visual design elements for publishers, web developers and multimedia companies.
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Web designer: plan, create and code web pages to fit client needs; review website design elements and information architecture; analyse client needs and develop relevant documentation; design graphics, animations, apps and manipulate digital images; work with different content management systems; adhere to web accessibility standards; and collaborate with other web specialists including web developers and graphic designers.
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Digital marketing and communication officer: develop and manage digital marketing campaigns; utilise a range of techniques including paid search, search engine optimisation, and pay per click strategies; oversee the social media strategy for a company; create email marketing campaigns; report on website performance and other digital activities.
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Virtual reality curator: manage the acquisition, preservation, display and promotion of innovative virtual and/or augmented reality collections; collaborate with tech designers who work in 3D and use various computer programs to create animation that can mimic a world, or make a whole new one; and stay up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry.
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Freelancer: build a client base and gather a strong portfolio of work to present to potential clients when looking for creative work; interact with clients and understand their needs; be highly organised and flexible, and work towards tight deadlines. Common freelancing jobs include writing, editing, web design and graphic design.
Learn more about your career in Digital Media >
Enquire now to study with UniSA Online
Control how and when you study with our 100% online degrees.
Your study experience and support
Study On Demand
Our online career-focused degrees give you full control and ultimate flexibility over your study. It’s Study On Demand, on your schedule, on your terms.
- Designed specifically for your online learning
Designed by a team of academic and online experts, our course materials are delivered in an interactive way using innovative digital technology and state-of-the-art teaching and learning resources. - Study when it suits you
Our online degrees support students who lead busy lifestyles. With four start dates a year in January, March, July and September there is no need to interrupt your life. - Take control of your study schedule
With all content available from day one of your course, you have the power to plan your study schedule in advance. - Finish each course in 10 weeks
Our courses are delivered within 10-week terms to keep you motivated throughout your degree. Study two courses a term or just one. - 100% online study
You won’t need to come onto campus for coursework, assessments or exams. Complete all study for your degree where it suits you. - Get the help you need
Whether you need help with course content or assessments, we offer the academic support and services you need to be successful in your studies. - Adjust your study to your life
There’s no need to interrupt work and family life or spend money on travel and student accommodation. Organise study around your life. - Learn from world-renowned academics
Get a degree that’s designed and taught by leading academics and industry professionals. - 100% online interactive learning environment
Our interactive online learning environment supports all your study needs. Log in anytime, on any device, wherever it suits you. - Access a library of over 700,000 digital resources
Access a library of more than 700,000 digital resources including e-books, videos and journal articles. Our Ask the Library virtual service can help you locate, access, evaluate, use and reference a range of information resources.
Why UniSA Online?
Our graduates get jobs
UniSA is ranked as the number one university in Australia for graduate employability.1 Join a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA Online degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career or take it to the next level.
Specifically designed for online learning
Our team of academic and online experts have created interactive and media-rich course material using innovative digital technology and state-of-the-art teaching and learning resources. Every degree has been specifically designed for online learning to ensure you graduate with the skills and knowledge for your future career.
Backed by industry
Every UniSA Online degree is overseen by an experienced industry advisory board. We've also consulted with industry experts with a wealth of experience to design course content that reflects the most cutting-edge developments in your field. Our industry connections will enrich your online study experience - you'll be presented with industry problems that real organisations face. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge that industry are telling us they need in graduates.
Expand your professional network from wherever you are
Online study doesn’t mean studying on your own. You’ll connect with a community of other like-minded students – you’ll be able to share, debate and collaborate ideas through virtual classrooms, online chat, video conferencing, and online communication tools.
1 QILT Employer Satisfaction Survey, 2020-22 – Employability Skills Indicator. Public universities.
Student support
Studying can be challenging, especially when you’re also juggling work and other life commitments. You’re not studying 9-5, Monday to Friday, which is why we provide personalised, extended hour support services – including on weekends – so you can get help when you need it.
Dedicated Student Adviser support
Our Student Advisers will be an important part of your student journey – they’ll help you enrol, discuss your study goals, communication preferences, and will be your first point of call for all your general study questions. They’ll link you to an extensive range of support services and resources across the University and will help schedule appointments with specialised services if required.
Online academic support seven days a week
You’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing as well as answer any other course-specific queries. You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
24/7 tech support
Our IT Help Desk is available 24/7 to provide assistance with your computer set up, student email, software requirements and other UniSA apps and student applications. You’ll be able to get support no matter what time it is.
24/7 digital environment
Our interactive online environment supports all your study needs. You’ll be able to track your progress through the student dashboard, plan your study schedule, receive reminders on due dates for tasks and assessments, as well as collaborate and network with a community of other like-minded students.
Using innovative technology in online education, your study experience will be highly personalised based on your learning activities throughout your degree. Just like your own personal study coach, you’ll get tailored feedback to enhance your learning outcomes and ensure you’re successful in your studies.
What others are saying
I’ve always loved design and have worked on a few projects on the side. I’d never thought I’d do this as a career, I always thought it would be a hobby. Now that I’m in the degree, I know for certain that this is definitely the path I want to take. All the assessments encourage you to act like you’re a business working for a client. It’s great because it gets you thinking about how to run a business, how to break down tasks, and how to work with different people.
James Grajdan
Bachelor of Digital Media
I chose to study Digital Media because it’s an area that doesn’t have an end game. There is always going to be a need for digital skills, and the next new thing is always around the corner. Studying this degree has ignited my passion more than I initially thought.
Corey Wade
Bachelor of Digital Media
IT Requirements
As a general rule of thumb, any desktop or laptop computer purchased in the past three years should be capable of meeting your online learning needs. While mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones will be able to access most of your online course content, there are likely to be elements of most courses where we recommend you use a desktop or laptop computer. Your computer should be able to:
- run a modern browser (Microsoft Edge, Firefox 24, Safari 5, or Chrome 32 or later versions)
- run Java
- run programs to create documents, spreadsheets and presentations
- use a web camera and headset (or ear pods with microphone)
- Some UniSA Online degrees require an online exam. The online exam software – Remote Proctor Now – has specific capability requirements. Please refer to the system requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer is compatible.
- Students who complete the Animation Design course will need a drawing tablet. We recommend using an entry-level tablet such as the WACOM Intuos.
Access free IT software and resources
As a UniSA Online student, you'll:
- Get free access to the full Office 365 ProPlus suite, which includes full versions of Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access and Lync software. Install the full suite on up to five different devices (PC and Mac compatible).
- Get 1Tb of personal storage that syncs with your PC or mobile device through OneDrive - it's like an extra hard drive that allows you to open any of your files from any of your devices, whenever you need them.
- Get free access to LinkedIn Learning - Access more than 5000 video courses on a broad range of topics such as: the Microsoft Office suite, time management and study skills, health and wellbeing, communication and presentation skills, photography, film making and designing your own games or mobile apps.
- Be able to connect with others using Microsoft Teams, Yammer and the Outlook Web App.
There are some degrees that have specialised software requirements. We've made this software available to students to access for free - you'll be able to download and install any of the required programs on your own device anywhere and anytime. See if your degree requires specialised software.
Check your device
Our computer system test will determine if your device has the base system resources and software required to study online. It'll also check the speed of your internet connection.
See if your computer, laptop or device is all set up and ready to go – it takes just a few seconds.
The application process is easy – just follow these simple steps:
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Submit an online enquiry
If you're ready to apply, the first step is to fill out and submit our online enquiry form. Here you'll be asked a series of questions to see if you're eligible. Following your online enquiry, one of our Degree Advisers will contact you at your preferred time to discuss the application process.
Enquire now > -
Speak to a Degree Adviser and start your application
If you're eligible, you'll receive an email outlining the entry requirements and the relevant documentation you need in order to be considered.
In order to verify your academic qualifications, you'll need to upload relevant documents like your official parchment, certificates or transcripts. If you have work experience, you will need to upload your CV as well as any other documents like work references, professional recognition or accreditation or your training certification.
Your email will contain information on the specific documents you need to provide as well as a link to begin your application. You'll be asked to create an account and set your own password.
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Complete your application and send through your documents
In order to proceed with your conditional offer, you’ll need to complete your application and provide required evidence of your previous study or work experience.
Enquire now >
Alternative Pathways
Online Course Facilitator
Having worked as a journalist and digital media specialist for nearly 30 years, and with more than 20 years of experience teaching journalism and digital media, I am committed to providing authentic learning experiences. Through my work as a journalist and digital storyteller, and having launched the entrepreneurial digital media company, Stories Well Told, I am able to share practical skills and discuss establishing a freelance or creative business. My industry connections include working with the ABC, News Limited, Solstice Media, and commercial broadcasters; in marketing strategy, digital and social media management and publishing and communication/PR planning for AnglicareSA, South Australian Councils, Renewal SA, and the Motor Accident Commission; and with creative businesses such as Martins Brand House and Black Sheep. I also stay connected to the latest industry guidelines as a judge and social media manager for the South Australian Media Awards and as a member of a number of professional organisations.
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When should I apply?
UniSA Online degrees start four times a year in January, April, June and September. There are key application dates for each term. If you're looking to apply for credit, there are different closing dates you need to be aware of, so it's always best to double check. Key dates can be found at unisaonline.edu.au/key-dates.
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Do I have to be online at set times?
All of our courses are asynchronous, meaning you choose when to study, whenever it suits you. However, if your degree has online exams, you will need to sit these at a designated date and time. Some courses may also require you to speak to your academics via phone or online communication channels at a mutually agreed time as part of your assessment.
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What academic support is available?
Our academics are available seven days a week, including weeknights. Throughout your degree, you’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing, and can answer any other course-specific queries.
You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
If you need after-hours learning support, Studiosity is a great resource that can help you with your writing, academic language, grammar and referencing. You’ll also be able to chat online with a Studiosity online adviser.
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How is my degree structured?
Full-time students study two courses each term. It makes earning a degree completely achievable, especially if you’re working. Your degree is delivered over four terms each year. Each term runs for ten weeks with two-week breaks in between each term.
You’ll also have the option to go part-time, or switch between the two. If you need to take a break in your study, that’s an option too. We recommend speaking to your Student Adviser who can help you update your study plan and check when your courses are offered.
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What career prospects do I have with my university qualification?
Our degrees are designed in conjunction with industry experts, employers and professional associations, and informed by the latest developments in your field. You will graduate with in demand skills and up-to-date knowledge required by industry.
You will be studying with a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career, or take it to the next level. UniSA's online students have graduate employment rates well above the national average.*
UniSA Online qualifications follow the same Government Higher Education Standards Framework as our on-campus degrees. The parchment you receive at the end of your degree will be the same as any other University of South Australia student.
*UniSA External UG full-time employment rate 83% Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018
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What are the main differences between online, on-campus and distance education?
The knowledge you gain from each mode of study is the same – it's how you get there that's different. When you study online, everything from your course material to weekly activities and assessments are fully online. You'll communicate with academic staff and students via live messages, online discussion forums and email.
Studying on campus requires students to physically come on to campus at specific times to attend lectures, tutorials and practicals. On-campus students have face-to-face contact with academics and fellow students and also communicate via email and online discussion boards.
Distance Education involves physical course material packages being sent to students, usually print based but occasionally audio or video. Communication is usually via telephone, mail and email. In today’s digital era, distance education has been superseded by online education.