| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-07-15 | - |
Program Overview
The Master of Communication program at the University of Auckland is a 100% online program that equips students with the skills to understand and analyze the relationship between communication and social change. The program consists of five courses, including a dissertation project, and covers key focus areas such as changing technologies, environment and sustainability, and social justice. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in journalism, digital marketing, public relations, and other communication-related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objectives
This program aims to equip students with the expertise necessary to understand, analyze, and articulate the intricate and crucial relationships between communication and social change. Throughout the program, you will cultivate advanced analytical, research, and problem-solving skills, empowering you to become an agent of positive social change while simultaneously enhancing your employability in today's rapidly evolving professional landscape.
Description
The Master of Communication is a 180-point program encompassing five courses. Each course unfolds across a 12-week semester, enabling completion of the program within three years on a part-time basis. The first two years involve engagement with four taught courses (COMMS 705, 706, 707, & 709). In your final year, you will embark on your Dissertation project (COMMS 793A/B). It's important to note that the Auckland Online courses follow a rotational schedule, with not all courses being offered in each semester.
Key Focus Areas
- Changing Technologies
- Environment and Sustainability
- Indigeneity, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
- Health
- Social Justice
Context
This program explores these key themes both within the context of Aotearoa New Zealand and globally.
Learning Outcomes
Upon graduating with a Master of Communication, you will be equipped to:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge and engage in practices relevant to the field of Communication.
- Identify productive interdisciplinary connections between Communication and related subjects.
- Apply relevant theories, conceptual frameworks, and research methodologies from within the interdisciplinary field of Communication in the design of real-world solutions and interventions.
- Understand the enduring importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi for Aotearoa through communication scholarship and practice.
- Demonstrate bicultural and multi-cultural competencies relevant to both Aotearoa and the wider world.
- Evaluate the communication practices of diverse social actors, organizations, and institutions.
- Identify and critically assess competing frameworks, narratives, rhetorics, and strategies of communication in both global and local contexts.
- Understand the connections between communication and social power.
- Communicate effectively and ethically across multiple contexts.
- Demonstrate skills in collaboration and partnership necessary for addressing complex communication challenges.
- Deploy knowledge and findings from the field of Communication to address the needs and concerns of real-world stakeholders and for the purposes of promoting positive social change.
- Address ethical issues relevant to communication research and stakeholder engagement.
- Demonstrate inclusivity, empathy, and social responsibility as core principles of ethical communication.
Outline:
Structure
The Master of Communication consists of five courses:
- COMMS 705: Communication Perspectives (30 points)
- COMMS 706: Communication Case Studies (30 points)
- COMMS 707: Research Methods and Design (30 points)
- COMMS 709: Special Topic (30 points)
- COMMS 793A/B: Dissertation (60 points)
Course Descriptions
- COMMS 705: Communication Perspectives: Critically examines key debates and perspectives within the field of Communication, with a particular emphasis on communication for social change. This course balances comprehensive coverage of dominant approaches in the field with a deep exploration of under-represented perspectives, including Indigenous scholarship and research from the Global South.
- COMMS 706: Communication Case Studies: Explores the practical applications of communication research in addressing complex real-world challenges and contributing to the development of solutions. Themes and topics covered in this course will vary from year to year, reflecting evolving societal issues and research interests of contributing faculty members.
- COMMS 707: Research Methods and Design: Provides a critical survey of methodological approaches in the Communication field, including Indigenous and other non-Western methodologies. Students will gain a thorough understanding of how to define their research problem, select appropriate methodologies, and design a research project. This course prepares students not only for undertaking their Dissertation project but also equips them with transferable skills applicable in professional settings.
- COMMS 709: Special Topic: The specific topic will vary depending on the faculty member leading the course in that particular year.
- COMMS 793A/B: Dissertation: This two-semester project allows students to delve deeply into an approved research topic of their choice, culminating in the completion of their Dissertation.
Careers
Graduates from the Master of Communication program will be well-prepared and equipped to pursue diverse career paths spanning numerous sectors, including:
- Journalism
- Digital Marketing
- Communication Strategies for NGOs and Non-Profit Organizations
- Documentary Production
- Public Relations
- Social Media Communications
- Government and Public Sector Communications
- Digital Content Specialists
Other
- Entry Requirements: For entry into the Master of Communication program, applicants must possess either a Bachelor of Communication or Bachelor of Arts or an equivalent qualification, achieving a GPA of 5.0 or higher in 45 points above Stage II. Candidates with at least 3 years of extensive relevant experience and a Bachelor's degree in another field can also apply for entry.
- Duration: The program can be completed within 3 years on a part-time basis.
- Start Dates: The next intake for the program begins in Semester 2 of 2024, with applications closing on July 1st.
University of Auckland Summary
Overview:
The University of Auckland is New Zealand's leading university, renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to research. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The University provides a comprehensive range of services for students, including:
Student Services Online:
A platform for accessing various student-related services.Class Search:
A tool for finding and enrolling in courses.Canvas:
An online learning platform for accessing course materials and submitting assignments.Concur:
A system for managing travel and expenses.Student Email:
A dedicated email account for communication with the university.MyCDES+ (job board):
A platform for students to find job opportunities.Course Outlines:
Detailed descriptions of course content and requirements.Learning Essentials:
Resources to support student learning.Libraries and Learning Services:
Access to extensive library resources and support services.Our People:
A directory of university staff and researchers.Forms, Policies and Guidelines:
Information on university policies and procedures.Campus Card:
A multi-purpose card for accessing campus facilities and services.Enrol in Courses:
Information on the enrollment process.Postgraduate Students:
Specific resources and support for postgraduate students.Summer School:
Information on summer school programs.Graduation:
Information on graduation requirements and ceremonies.AskAuckland:
An online help and support center.Student Hubs:
Physical locations on campus for student support and advice.Student IT Hub:
Support for IT-related issues.Student Health and Counselling:
Services for student well-being.Be Well:
Resources for promoting student health and well-being.Harassment, Bullying, Sexual Assault and Other Violence:
Information on reporting and support services.Complaints and Incidents:
Information on reporting complaints and incidents.Career Development and Employability Services (CDES):
Support for career planning and job searching.Ratonga Hauātanga Tauira | Student Disability Services (SDS):
Support for students with disabilities.Rainbow Support:
Resources and support for LGBTQ+ students.Covid-19 Information for Our Community:
Updates and information on COVID-19.Emergency Information:
Contact information and safety guidelines for emergencies.Report Concerns, Incidents and Hazards:
Information on reporting safety concerns.Health and Safety Topics:
Information on health and safety policies and procedures.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The University of Auckland offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, with opportunities for students to:
Live in Auckland:
Experience the city's cultural attractions and amenities.Join Clubs and Societies:
Engage in extracurricular activities and meet like-minded individuals.Attend Events:
Participate in a variety of events and activities on campus.Experience Māori and Pacific Life:
Engage with the university's strong Māori and Pacific communities.Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-ranked University:
The University of Auckland is consistently ranked among the top universities in New Zealand and Oceania.World-class Research:
The university is a leading center for research, with a strong focus on innovation and impact.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
The university values diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.Excellent Student Support:
The university provides comprehensive support services to help students succeed.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a dynamic and engaging campus experience with a wide range of activities and opportunities.Academic Programs:
The University of Auckland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts:
Business School:
Creative Arts and Industries:
Education and Social Work:
Engineering:
Law:
Medical and Health Sciences:
Science:
Entry Requirements:
For domestic students (including EU home students):
- A Bachelor of Communication OR Arts OR an equivalent qualification
- WITH a GPA of 5.0 or higher, in 45 points above Stage II.
For international students (including overseas students outside the EU):
- A Bachelor of Communication OR Arts OR an equivalent qualification
- WITH a GPA of 5.0 or higher, in 45 points above Stage II.
Additional Requirements:
- If you do not meet the above requirements but have at least 3 years of extensive relevant experience, please enquire to learn more.
Please note:
- This program is open to both domestic and international students.
- The entry requirements for domestic and international students are the same.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
English Language Proficiency Requirements:
- All applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.
- This can be done by providing evidence of a recent English language test score, such as IELTS (6.5 overall with no band score lower than 6.0) or TOEFL (90 overall with a minimum of 22 in writing and 20 in listening, speaking and reading).
- If you are a native English speaker or have completed a degree taught in English, you may not need to provide a language test score.
- This program is offered 100% online, so you can study from anywhere in the world.
- You will be supported by a dedicated advisor throughout your studies.
Conclusion:
The Master of Communication program at the University of Auckland is a great option for students who want to advance their knowledge in Communication and its social impact, as well as open further career development opportunities.
