Program summary

Program title: Graduate Diploma in Public Relations
Award abbreviation: GDPR
Degree type: coursework
Mode of study: on campus
Duration: 1 year minimum full-time, 4 years maximum part-time.
Commence: Semester 1 or Semester 2
Fee type 2011: postgraduate coursework places, international fee-paying places
Total courses: 8
USC program code: AR613
CRICOS code: 058893A

Highlights

• Learn to create strategic communication campaigns
• Find out how to succeed in the competitive field of public relations
• Develop essential writing, tactical and analytical skills

Build your skills in contemporary public relations.

Public relations specialists assist business, government and non-profit organisations to develop and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with clients, consumers, media, financial donors, employees and other stakeholders. These programs provide the theoretical understanding and practical skills to succeed in this competitive field. They are ideal for those who hold an undergraduate degree or its equivalent in an area different from public relations.

Interpersonal skills involving negotiation, and the ability to gain cooperation, are an essential foundation for advanced technical and strategic skills in public relations. Complete the 4-course Graduate Certificate to improve your written and oral communication skills, learn to design and manage large-scale events, and gain an understanding of the media industries. It offers an attractive opportunity for you to gain a qualification that is relevant, current and credible. To continue your studies, the Graduate Certificate articulates into the 8-course Graduate Diploma and you can apply the units completed to the higher award.

The Graduate Diploma in Public Relations is ideal for professionals in corporate or government sectors looking to upgrade their qualifications and expertise in a short time and it is currently under consideration by the Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA) for accreditation. You gain hands-on workplace experience through two work integrated learning units—a major event project and an internship. In the Graduate Diploma, you can use your electives to specialise in an area of interest. Select courses in internal communications, crisis and issues management, or advertising, or undertake a research project on a particular aspect of public relations that interests you.

Admission requirements

A student entering the Graduate Diploma program will normally be required to hold an undergraduate degree, or equivalent, from a recognised higher education institution. To be eligible to undertake this award, students must not have undertaken a previous degree in communications, journalism, creative writing or public relations; or a major or minor in any of the foregoing fields of study.

Students cannot undertake any course in this award that they have completed previously at an undergraduate level. Entry by non-graduates who have extensive relevant industry experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Advanced standing for up to 4 courses may be awarded for courses completed in a Graduate Certificate in Public Relations.

Study Plan

This Study Plan is valid from Study Period 1, 2011.

For students who commenced study in this program prior to Study Period 1, 2011:

• Find the Student Handbook for the semester in which you commenced.
• Select the program in which you are enrolled.
• Scroll down to your relevant Program Structure.

Program requirements and notes

• Students are required to successfully complete 8 required courses as listed below.
• Students are required to seek approval from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences prior to enrolling into CMN574
• Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses).
• The Graduate Diploma articulates into the Master of Communication. Students who undertake courses in the Graduate Diploma can apply for up to 8 courses advanced standing into the coursework components only of the Master of Communication. To gain the maximum of 8 courses advanced standing, students must complete CMN574 .
• Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa.

Program structure

Required courses: (8)

PLUS select 6 courses from:

TOTAL UNITS 96

The University attempts to ensure this information is accurate and up-to-date. However, the University reserves the right to discontinue or vary program/course information at any time without notice.

Enquiries 

How to apply

Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Tel: +61 7 5430 1259

Program Leader
Dr Amalia Matheson
Tel: +61 7 5456 5054
Email: amatheso@usc.edu.au

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