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; 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:

Required courses: (4)

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)

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)

Elective courses: (2)
Select 2 elective courses from any faculty (Science, Health and Education, Arts and Social Sciences or Business).

TOTAL UNITS 288

Enquiries

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

Acting Program Leader
Dr Heather Pavitt
Tel: +61 7 5459 4837
Email: HPavitt@usc.edu.au

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