Program summary
Program title: Bachelor of Public Relations
Award abbreviation: BPR
QTAC code: 011141
OP/Rank for 2011 entry: OP-17 / Rank-65
Duration: 3 years full-time or equivalent part-time
Commence: Semester 1 or Semester 2
Recommended prior study: English
Fee type 2011: Commonwealth supported places, visiting non-award domestic places, international fee-paying places
Total units: 288
USC program code: AR346
CRICOS code: 066299G. Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student Visa.
Highlights
- Industry professionals are involved in course delivery
- Opportunity to undertake industry internships with public relations firms
- Graduates are experienced in reputation management
Public relations professionals assist organisations and individuals to develop and maintain beneficial relationships with clients, media, government, consumers and other stakeholders.
This program provides you with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in public relations. Courses cover event management, crisis and issues management, media and community relations, advertising, campaign planning, international communication, sports marketing and consumer behaviour. A range of elective courses are also available. Industry engagement and internships in public relations roles provide practical experience.
Majors
Communication studies; creative advertising; creative writing; journalism; public relations.
Career opportunities
Advertising/copy editing; corporate, marketing, government or policy communications; event management; media liaison; non-profit organisations, promotions, tourism.
Professional recognition
Graduates may become members of the Public Relations Institute of Australia.
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.
- Either scroll down to the Program Structure, or select the Recommended Enrolment Pattern link.
Program requirements
In order to graduate you must:
- Complete 2 core courses, 16 required courses and 6 electives.
- Complete no more than 10 introductory level courses, including core courses.
- Complete no more than 6 courses from the Faculty of Business or the Faculty of Science, Health and Education.
Program notes
- Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses).
- Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods including essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations. Not all courses will necessarily include all methods.
- As part of your USC program, you may apply to participate in the Global Opportunities (GO) Program to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider. It is advisable to contact your Program Advisor to discuss timing and course issues.
- Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa.
Program structure
Year 1
Core courses: (2)
Complete 2 core courses—ONE in your first semester and ONE in your second semester.
Select 2 core courses from:
| Course | Semester of offer | Units | Requisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| COR109 Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility | |||
| COR110 Managing Human Resources | |||
| COR111 Staffing and Remuneration |
Required courses: (4)
| Course | Semester of offer | Units | Requisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| BUS105 Managing Workplace Relations | |||
| CMN102 Employment and Industrial Law | |||
| CMN120 Training and Development | |||
| CMN140 Managing Organisational Change |
Elective courses: (2)
Select 2 elective courses from any faculty (Science, Health and Education, Arts and Social Sciences or Business).
Year 2
Required courses: (6)
| Course | Semester of offer | Units | Requisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMN213 Group Work | |||
| CMN218 Professional Health Communication | |||
| CMN231 Introductory Bioscience | |||
| CMN229 Practice Foundations | |||
| CMN226 Health Care and the Professions | |||
| MKG221 Communication and Thought |
Elective courses: (2)
Select 2 elective courses from any faculty (Science, Health and Education, Arts and Social Sciences or Business).
Year 3
Required courses: (6)
| Course | Semester of offer | Units | Requisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMN216 Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship | |||
| CMN224 Environment, Technology and Sustainability | |||
| CMN251 Marketing Theory and Practice | |||
| CMN243 Communication Theory and Practice | |||
| CMN273 Public Relations Strategies and Tactics | |||
| MKG210 Introduction to Creative Advertising |
Please note: CMN273 should be studied in your final semester of study.
Elective courses: (2)
Select 2 elective courses from any faculty (Science, Health and Education, Arts and Social Sciences or Business).
TOTAL UNITS 288
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