Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations)

Deakin University, located in Victoria, Australia, is recognized globally for its commitment to innovation and academic excellence. The Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations) program is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in public relations within a business context. It combines core business disciplines with specialized communication training, preparing graduates for diverse roles in public relations across industries.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations) program at Deakin University is structured to provide students with a solid foundation in both business and communication disciplines. Students study core subjects such as public relations principles and practice, media relations, crisis communication, strategic communication management, and digital media strategies. They also gain insights into business fundamentals including economics, marketing, management, and organizational behavior, essential for understanding the business environment in which public relations operate.

Research Focus: Deakin University emphasizes a research-driven approach to public relations education. The program encourages students to engage in critical analysis, research methodologies, and applied research projects relevant to contemporary PR practices. Faculty members are active researchers who contribute to the field's knowledge through publications and industry collaborations. Students have opportunities to participate in research initiatives that address current issues in public relations and communication management.

Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations) program at Deakin University fosters strong connections with industry partners. Students benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and networking events that bring them into contact with PR professionals and organizations. They also undertake internships with leading PR agencies, corporations, government departments, and nonprofit organizations, gaining practical experience and industry insights. This engagement ensures graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce with relevant skills and professional networks.

Global Perspective: With a commitment to preparing students for a globalized PR landscape, Deakin University integrates a global perspective into the program. Students have opportunities for international study experiences, exchange programs, and collaborations with international PR agencies and professionals. The curriculum includes case studies and projects that explore global PR challenges and strategies, preparing graduates to work effectively in multicultural and multinational environments.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 with a minimum of 21 in each section.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): Overall score of 58 with a minimum of 50 in each section.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

Deakin University provides an array of scholarships designed to recognize and reward academic excellence, leadership potential, and specific fields of study. 

Deakin International Scholarship: This scholarship is available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. It provides a partial tuition fee waiver, making Deakin's quality education more affordable.

Deakin Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to exceptional international students who have demonstrated academic excellence. It covers a significant portion of tuition fees, enhancing the value of a Deakin education.

Deakin STEM Scholarship: For students pursuing science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) programs, this scholarship recognizes and rewards their dedication to these fields. It provides financial support to help students achieve their STEM-related academic goals.

Regional Scholarships: Deakin University is supporting students from specific regions, including South Asia, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. These regional scholarships provide financial assistance to students from these areas to enhance their educational experience at Deakin.

Faculty-specific Scholarships: Deakin offers scholarships tailored to different faculties and areas of study, such as business, health, and arts and education. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence and dedication to specific fields.

Sports Scholarships: Deakin recognizes the value of sports and provides scholarships to talented athletes who wish to balance their education with competitive sports.

Graduates from Deakin University's Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations) program possess a versatile skill set that prepares them for diverse roles within the public relations (PR) industry and beyond. 

Public Relations Officer: Graduates can pursue careers as public relations officers, responsible for managing communication between organizations and their stakeholders. They develop PR campaigns, write press releases, handle media inquiries, and maintain positive relationships with the media and public.

Communications Manager: Careers as communications managers involve overseeing all internal and external communications for organizations. Graduates develop communication strategies, manage corporate branding, and ensure consistent messaging across various channels.

Media Relations Specialist: Graduates may specialize in media relations roles, serving as liaisons between organizations and journalists. They pitch story ideas, arrange interviews, and coordinate press conferences to secure media coverage and enhance brand visibility.

Digital PR Specialist: With skills in digital communication and social media management, graduates can work as digital PR specialists. They develop online PR strategies, manage social media accounts, monitor digital trends, and engage with online communities to build brand reputation.

Corporate Communications Advisor: Graduates may work in corporate settings as communications advisors, supporting internal communication initiatives and external PR activities. They provide strategic advice to senior management, draft corporate communications, and manage crisis communication strategies.

Event Manager: Careers in event management involve planning and executing PR events such as product launches, conferences, and promotional campaigns. Graduates coordinate logistics, manage budgets, and collaborate with vendors to ensure successful events that enhance brand visibility and engagement.

Government/Public Affairs Officer: Graduates can pursue roles in government agencies or public affairs departments of organizations. They develop communication strategies to engage with the public, stakeholders, and policymakers on issues affecting their organizations or communities.

Campaign Manager: Graduates with a strategic mindset can work as campaign managers, overseeing integrated PR campaigns that span across traditional media, digital platforms, and community outreach. They analyze campaign performance, adjust strategies as needed, and measure campaign effectiveness.

Social Media Manager: Careers in social media management involve creating and implementing social media strategies to promote organizations and manage their online presence. Graduates monitor social media platforms, engage with followers, and use analytics to optimize social media campaigns.

Consultant/Freelancer: Some graduates may choose to work as PR consultants or freelancers, offering their expertise to multiple clients or organizations. They provide strategic PR advice, develop customized communication plans, and execute PR campaigns on a project basis.