Graduate Diploma in Strategic Communication

About the course

The Graduate Diploma in Strategic Communication focuses on advancing the skills, knowledge and capabilities required to successfully participate in the contemporary communications environment.

This course is subsidised for Australian residents through Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). Visit our fee calculator for CSP rates and an estimate on your course fees.

Course details

• Status: Available
• Locations: Perth (Crawley campus)
• Attendance: Full-time, Part-time
• Delivery: On-campus
• Starting dates: Semester 1, Semester 2
• Weekly contact time: 8-10 hours plus own study time.
• Level of study: Postgraduate
• Course Code: 12340
• CRICOS code: E
• Full time/part time duration: 1 year
• Degrees course is available in: Graduate Diploma in Strategic Communication

Course structure

Postgraduate coursework degrees and combined (coursework and research) degrees comprise a number of units. Refer to the course structure for more information.

Core

• Take all units (24 points):
  • COMM5104 Public Communication (6)
  • COMM5701 Strategic Communications in a Digital Era (6)
  • COMM5702 Digital Media: Theory and Practice (6)
  • COMM5704 Global Media and Cross-cultural Communication (6)

Option

• Take unit(s) to the value of 24 points:
  • COMM5200 Digital Advocacy (6)
  • COMM5604 Media Governance (6)
  • COMM5605 Issues in Global Journalism and Strategic Communication (6)
  • COMM5706 Accountability and Responsibility in the Media (6)
  • WILG5001 Work Integrated Learning Internship Program (6)

Why study this course?

• Develop advanced skills in designing and managing effective communication strategy across media platforms
• Work placements provide access to real-world experience of the local and international communications environment
• The course has a number of options for completion depending on individual requirements and aspirations

You'll learn to

• effectively participate in contemporary media and communication environments
• design effective communication strategies and projects and manage communication activities and campaigns
• apply practical, analytical and critical skills across the media platforms and in a range of professional contexts and practices

Work integrated learning

Our program integrates a range of practical, project-based activities toward building up a student’s professional portfolio, including specialised media training and workshops and professional and networking opportunities.

This course includes a work placement component where students apply knowledge in industry environments. Work placements provide access to real-world experience of the local and international communications environment.

Articulated courses

This course is part of an articulated sequence with the:

• Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication
• Master of Strategic Communication

Admission requirements

• To be considered for admission to this course an applicant must have:
  • a Bachelor's degree, or an equivalent qualification, as recognised by UWA;
  • the equivalent of a UWA weighted average mark of at least 50 per cent; or
• completed a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication at UWA.

Ranking and Selection Process

Where relevant, admission will be awarded to the highest ranked applicants or applicants selected based on the relevant requirements.

English competency

English is the language of instruction and assessment at UWA and you will need to meet the English language requirements of the University to be eligible for a place.

Minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0.

Fees and scholarships

Domestic Student Fees

For Commonwealth-supported places, student contribution amounts are charged by unit, based on area of study. For a fee estimate, go to the Fee Calculator and select “I want to price my units”. Fees are subject to annual indexation. Refer to the Handbook to identify the units required.

International Student Fees

Annual course fee

2025

$40,700.00

Onshore international students are charged an annual course fee, charged per credit point at a rate dependent on the course in which the student is enrolled. Annual course fees are calculated based on an annual study load. Check the handbook to confirm the annual study load for your course.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available to students from a diverse range of backgrounds, including academic achievement, financial need, educational disadvantage, leadership and community service, artistic or sporting achievements, and being from a rural or remote area.

Cost of living

There are a few things to consider before applying to study at university. One could be your cost of living. This can depend on factors such as lifestyle, accommodation, tuition fees, medical insurance, textbooks and more. For an indication of expenses and average costs, see our Cost of living page.

The University of Western Australia

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Overview:

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a leading research-intensive university located in Perth, Western Australia. It is renowned for its high-quality teaching, strong research output, and commitment to graduate employability. UWA is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities globally and is the number one university in Western Australia for graduate employability.

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Services Offered:

UWA offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic support:

Tutoring, workshops, and study skills resources.

Career services:

Career counselling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Student wellbeing:

Mental health support, counselling, and health services.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options.

Sports and fitness:

Access to state-of-the-art facilities and a variety of sports clubs.

Clubs and societies:

A vibrant student community with numerous clubs and societies catering to diverse interests.

Study abroad and exchange:

Opportunities to study at universities around the world.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UWA provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience for its students. The university boasts a beautiful campus with modern facilities, green spaces, and a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:

Social events:

Concerts, festivals, and other social gatherings.

Sporting events:

Supporting the university's sports teams.

Volunteer opportunities:

Contributing to the local community.

Cultural events:

Art exhibitions, theatre performances, and music concerts.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class education:

UWA offers a high-quality education with a focus on research and innovation.

Excellent employability:

Graduates from UWA are highly sought after by employers.

Vibrant campus life:

A diverse and engaging student community with numerous opportunities for personal and professional development.

Beautiful campus:

A picturesque campus with modern facilities and green spaces.

Strong research focus:

UWA is a leading research university with a strong commitment to innovation.

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Academic Programs:

UWA offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

History, Literature, Philosophy, Languages, and more.

Science and Engineering:

Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, and more.

Business and Economics:

Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Economics, and more.

Health Sciences:

Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, and more.

Law:

Juris Doctor, Bachelor of Laws, and other law programs.

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Other:

UWA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university has a strong focus on Indigenous education and research, and offers a range of programs and support services for Indigenous students. UWA also has a strong international presence, with students from over 100 countries studying at the university.