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Bachelor of Marketing and Communication
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
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View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements
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)- Completed 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
None
Degree overview
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Develop a versatile skill set in social media, advertising, public relations, content creation, marketing analytics, retailing, and brand management.
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Learn emerging trends in digital marketing including online advertising, mobile marketing, and customer relationship management (CRM) strategies.
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Combine creative thinking and data analysis to develop effective integrated marketing and communication campaigns in a digital era.
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Be guided by experts who conduct world-class research at the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute for Marketing Science and advise brands like P&G and CBS.
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Study with a global leader in brand management research.1
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UniSA Business is in the top 1% worldwide and awarded five stars.2
- Graduate with a degree evaluated and accredited by the Australian Marketing Institute (AMI).
1AFR BOSS Magazine, April 2018 – League of Scholars.
2UniSA Business is one of just 13 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2024. 2023 QS Stars Business School Ratings.
Snapshot
Study On Demand – this is a 100% online marketing and communication degree designed specifically for online learning. With UniSA Online you can 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.
Gain the skills you need to excel in any marketing and communication (marcomms) role, no matter what industry you choose to work in. Explore diverse areas such as social media, public relations, marketing analytics, digital marketing, advertising, retailing, brand management, and content creation.
Learn how to develop effective integrated campaigns by combining your creativity and passion for content creation with your marketing and data analytical skills.
Whether you’re looking to restart your career or make a change, this degree will set you up on a path towards career success.
What you'll learn
Study a combination of courses from UniSA Online’s Bachelor of Business (Marketing) and Bachelor of Communication degrees.
Equip yourself with an understanding of both the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind consumers’ digital purchasing habits, learn about eCommerce fundamentals like e-payments and order fulfilments, and explore customer relationship management (CRM) tools and tactics that help businesses of all sizes grow and scale.
Learn to develop brand communication strategies, craft media plans, build social media strategies, and create engaging content for different target audiences across a range of platforms. You’ll also explore corporate social responsibility, sponsorship, and crisis communication.
Digital marketing is a strong focus in this degree. Discover why businesses are turning to online advertising (using tools like Google Ads) to reach new audiences and develop an understanding of how effective marketers quantify their success using stats and data. You’ll also explore trends in mobile marketing and develop strategies to increase website traffic.
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.
Choose the following courses as part of your elective sequence to graduate with a minor in social media:
- Introduction to social media
- Content creation for media
- Media Law and Ethics
- Social Media Engagement.
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.
, Note(s): 1
, Note(s): 1
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Electives
Course name Area and cat no. Units Suggested Electives UO News Reporting COMM 1074 4.5 UO Market Research MARK 2035 4.5 -
Rules & notes
Rules
Go here to the see the complete UniSA Online electives list.
1. Assessment requirements for this degree include at least one online exam. The online exam software has system compatibility requirements, specifically that tablets, hybrid devices and mobile devices are not supported. Please refer to the online exam requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer and software is compatible to undertake the exam.
Notes
1. The elective may be chosen from the suggested electives list for this degree or from the UniSA Online electives list. Course pre-requisites must be satisfied.
2. This course is recommended for students who are new to university studies or require development in academic and research skills.
Study Marketing and Communication on Demand
Dr Damien Spry gives an insight into what the Marketing and Communication degree is about, and how the degree has been designed to suit busy adults on the go.
Why Bachelor of Marketing and Communication
UniSA is ranked as a global leader in Brand Management research1. Our research in the area of marketing is recognised as above world-class.2
Allied with UniSA, The Ehrenberg-Bass Institute for Marketing Science is the world’s largest centre for research into marketing. As a student, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from researchers and Marketing Scientists who have advised some of the world's biggest brands including Colgate-Palmolive, Mondelez International and Nestlé. Content taught in our communication courses is also informed by specialist research undertaken in the public communication, social media, and public relations sectors.
Throughout your studies, you'll learn via real case studies, consumer purchase data and the latest research from global brands – our real-world approach to studying marketing and communication makes our degrees hyper-relevant and valued by industry. In your final year, you’ll also complete a comprehensive, industry-standard communication plan that you can use to nail that next job interview.
1AFR BOSS Magazine, April 2018 – League of Scholars.
22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Your career
A career in marketing and communication can take you in several different directions – from traditional advertising and PR through to digital marketing and social media. You may decide to pursue an analytical role, working with data to uncover insights and trends, or you could choose to focus on writing and content creation (and perhaps even launch your own business).
Marketing and communication graduates go on to work in a variety of different sectors. You could go on to work in business-to-consumer (B2C) roles in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) businesses, business-to-business (B2B) roles, Government departments or the private sector.
While a diverse skill set is an asset in such a fast-moving industry like marketing and communication, choosing to hone your skills will provide you with a wealth of career prospects, too – the world is your oyster!
A UniSA Online Marketing and Communication degree can help you pursue the following careers:
- Marketing and communication professional: plan, develop and produce marketing and communication materials for online and print; monitor social media activity and respond to comments and enquiries; write and distribute media releases; develop reports and track ROI for marketing and advertising campaigns; develop EDM communications and landing pages; and ensure all marketing and communication activities align with an organisation’s brand style guide.
- Brand and advertising manager: plan and develop marketing strategies to increase the value and performance of a specific brand, service or product; monitor market trends and oversee advertising and marketing activities to ensure the right message is delivered to the right customers at the right time in the right medium; and create brand style guidelines for an organisation.
- Media planner: combine creative thinking with factual analysis to develop effective marketing campaigns; identify the best mediums for building brand awareness and increasing sales; undertake research and analyse data using specialist industry resources; identify target audiences and analyse their characteristics, behaviour and media habits; and manage client relationships.
- Digital and social media manager: build and execute social media and digital strategies; publish and edit content on a range of platforms; create editorial calendars and distribution schedules; moderate, capture and repurpose user-generated content; and continuously improve and optimise campaigns by analysing social data and metrics.
- PR coordinator: generate media coverage to help raise the profile of the organisation; deliver creative solutions and new ideas across traditional and social media; develop crisis communication strategies and manage reputation issues; and build long-term relationships with journalists, influencers and bloggers.
- Content creator and writer: develop compelling content and creative concepts for a range of marketing and communication materials including email campaigns, long-form articles, style guides, social media, written scripts, and landing pages; work closely with designers, web developers, photographers, and videographers; and use insights and analytics to continually optimise content.
- Market analyst: perform research and gather data to help an organisation market its products or services; gather data on consumer demographics, preferences, needs and buying habits; monitor and forecast marketing and sales trends, measure the effectiveness of marketing activities and strategies; and devise methods for collecting data, such as surveys, questionnaires and opinion polls.
Learn more about your career in Marketing >
Learn more about your career in Communication >
Industry facts
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.
- Study 100% online - no need to come onto campus
- Choose from four start dates in January, April, June and September
- Learn in 10-week blocks
- Get support seven days a week - including on weeknights
- Access learning resources 24/7
- View course content before your term starts
- Work while you study
- Plan your study schedule ahead of time
- Fast-track your studies and receive credit for past study and/or work experience.
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 is a one-stop shop for 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 lead a team that’s responsible for Foodland’s advertising, communications, media, sponsorships, public relations, and consumer insights. No two days are ever alike. One day, I might be planning the next advertising campaign and media schedule, the next I could be talking about opportunities with a new sponsor and planning point of sale material. Having such a diverse skill set in both marketing and communications, while staying abreast of all the digital platforms, is pivotal to my role.
Christopher Villani
Bachelor of Marketing and Communication
General Manager: Merchandise and Marketing | Foodland Supermarkets Australia
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.
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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Check your eligibility
Take our eligibility checker and answer a few short questions to see if you’re eligible. You’ll be given an option to continue your application, save it for later or request a call back from a Degree Adviser if you have any questions. -
Gather your relevant documents
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 log in to your application. You'll be asked to create an account and set your own password. -
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.
Alternative Pathways
- complete the UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Business)
- complete the UniSA College Diploma in Business
- complete the UniSA College Diploma in Creative Studies (Communication)
- complete the UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Creative Studies)
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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.