Bachelor of Media & Communication/Laws (Hons) | Newcastle

Bachelor Honours Degree Mass Communication Full Time

Bachelor of Media and Communication/Bachelor of Laws (Honours)

at University of Newcastle · Newcastle, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

113055A

CRICOS provider code

00109J

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$192,016 total

Per year

A$38,403/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Bachelor of Media and Communication/Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at the University of Newcastle is an integrated double degree designed for students seeking versatile expertise in both legal and communication fields. Over the span of five years, students engage with a curriculum that covers the theoretical foundations and practical aspects of law, in addition to advanced studies in media theory, journalism, public relations, and digital communication. The program structure follows the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) for a Bachelor Honours Degree, involving core units of study, extensive electives, and a research-focused honours year in law.

Students will accumulate credit points across both disciplines, completing units that incorporate case law analysis, legal research, advocacy, ethical communication, news writing, and multimedia production. A key feature in the law component is the honours research thesis, enabling in-depth investigation and critical reflection on a chosen legal topic. In the media stream, students develop hands-on skills in content creation and audience engagement, preparing them for the rapidly evolving Australian and global media landscape.

For those interested in practical experience, there are opportunities for work-integrated learning such as internships or professional placements, particularly relevant to the legal and communications industries. Throughout their studies, students benefit from industry and research links within Newcastle’s media outlets, legal practices, and government bodies, enhancing their readiness for professional life. The program suits individuals aiming for multifaceted careers or those who wish to combine advocacy, analysis, and creative communication in their professional path.

International students must provide proof of English proficiency, typically with an IELTS Academic score of 7.0 or higher for the law component. While studying, students are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight, and graduates may be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream in Australia. For the most accurate and current details about admissions, unit outlines, or credit requirements, prospective students should consult the official course page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Solicitor or barrister (subject to admission requirements in Australia)
In-house counsel for corporations and government
Media and communication strategist
Public relations and corporate affairs specialist
Journalist or content producer in print, broadcast, or digital media
Policy advisor in government agencies
Legal researcher or analyst for think tanks or non-profits
Media regulator or compliance officer in the communications sector
Consultancy roles in law, media, and communications
Employment opportunities within Australia's legal and media industries, including news outlets, government departments, and private enterprises

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Media and Communication/Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at University of Newcastle?

It typically takes 5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$192,016 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Solicitor or barrister (subject to admission requirements in Australia)In-house counsel for corporations and governmentMedia and communication strategistPublic relations and corporate affairs specialistJournalist or content producer in print, broadcast, or digital mediaPolicy adv...

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