Entry Requirements
- Bachelor of Communication OR Arts OR an equivalent qualification
- WITH a GPA* of 5.0 or higher, in 45 points above Stage II.
If you do not meet the above requirements but have at least 3 years of extensive relevant experience, please enquire to learn more.
Duration
3 years (part-time)
Next Start Dates
2025
- Semester 1: 3 March (Applications close 17 February)
- Semester 2: 21 July (Applications close 7 July)
Full Programme Fees
$13,957.20** (estimate)
Master of Communication Programme Overview
The Master of Communication provides exposure to a broad and interdisciplinary range of approaches and perspectives, with a particular emphasis on communication and social change, as well as communication for social change.
Throughout this programme, you will explore key themes in communication and social changes such as
- changing technologies,
- environment and sustainability,
- Indigeneity, equity, diversity and inclusion,
- health, and social justice
both within the context of Aotearoa New Zealand, and globally.
You will define your own research focus for your dissertation, drawing upon the knowledge and expertise gained from our experienced teaching team. Have access to our top researchers, global connections and a unique set of supervisory opportunities, guiding you in exploring communication challenges relevant to your interests.
Gain a unique perspective on bicultural and multicultural communication, developing skills and knowledge that are highly valuable in a globalised world. This programmes prepares you for a future where communication transcends borders and cultures, shaping a more understanding and inclusive world. Apply now and take your next step in becoming a key figure in the future of communication.
Where could this programme take you?
Master of Communication graduates will have developed advanced competencies that are highly valued across a broad range of employment sectors.
Graduates will be well-prepared for leadership roles in communication professions, including media, public relations and advertising. You will also be well-placed to take on leadership roles across a wide range of public, private and social organisations in which advanced communication skills are highly sought-after, including government agencies, community and charitable organisations, for-profit and not-for-profit enterprises, and civil society organisations.
Whichever sector you work in, the distinctive character of this programme will empower you to become influential agents of positive social change. Graduates from the Master of Communication will also be qualified and well-prepared to enter international or domestic doctoral programmes in Communication.
Jobs related to this programme
- Communication strategy for NGO’s, not-for-profit and advocacy groups
- Documentary production
- Public relations
- Social media comms
- Government and public sector communications
- Digital content marketing specialist
- Journalism
Further Study Options
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Who, What and Why
Associate Professor Bridget Conor is an Associate Professor of Communication at the University of Auckland, and the Programme Director of the 100% online Master of Communication.
Previously in the Department of Culture, Media & Creative Industries at King’s College London for past 10 years, her research interests include media production, cultural labour and the rise of wellness as a social phenomenon.
Watch the video to learn why this programme could be ideal for you.
Throughout this qualification, you will acquire advanced analytical, research, and solution-seeking capabilities that will empower you to become agents of positive social change while also improving your employability within a fast-changing world of work.
The Master of Communication is a 180-point programme consisting of five courses. Each course runs over a 12-week Semester, enabling you to complete this programme in 3-years part-time.
In the first two years of this qualification, you will take four taught courses (COMMS 705, 706, 707, & 709), and in your third and final year of this programme, you will complete your Dissertation (COMMS 793A/B).
Please note that the courses are scheduled on rotation, and not all courses will be available each semester.
| Course Code | Course | Description | Points |
| COMMS 705 | Communication Perspectives |
Critical review of key debates and perspectives in the Communication field, with a particular emphasis on social change communication. Balances broad coverage of dominant approaches in the field with the study of under-represented perspectives including through studies of Indigenous scholarship and research from the Global South.
|
30 |
| COMMS 706 | Communication Case Studies |
Explores how research in the Communication field can be applied to address complex challenges of the contemporary world and contribute to the development of solutions. Themes and topics will vary from year to year in line with changing societal issues and the research projects of contributing staff.
|
30 |
| COMMS 707 | Research Methods and Design |
Critical survey of methodological approaches in the Communication field, including Indigenous and other non-Western methodologies. Students will also be guided through a process for defining their own research problem and establishing an appropriate methodological design. Prepares students to undertake a dissertation as well as covering skills transferable to professional contexts.
|
30 |
| COMMS 709 | Special Topic | NA | 30 |
| COMMS 793A/B | Dissertation | NA | 60 |
- Display 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, organisations, 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
Throughout this qualification, you will acquire advanced analytical, research, and solution-seeking capabilities that will empower you to become agents of positive social change while also improving your employability within a fast-changing world of work.
The Master of Communication is a 180-point programme consisting of five courses. Each course runs over a 12-week Semester, enabling you to complete this programme in 3-years part-time.
In the first two years of this qualification, you will take four taught courses (COMMS 705, 706, 707, & 709), and in your second and final year of this programme, you will complete your Dissertation (COMMS 793A/B).
Please note that the Auckland Online courses are scheduled on rotation, and not all courses will be available each semester.
Course Module & Description
Communication Perspectives | COMMS 705 | 30 Points
Critical review of key debates and perspectives in the Communication field, with a particular emphasis on social change communication. Balances broad coverage of dominant approaches in the field with the study of under-represented perspectives including through studies of Indigenous scholarship and research from the Global South.
Communication Case Studies | COMMS 706 | 30 Points
Explores how research in the Communication field can be applied to address complex challenges of the contemporary world and contribute to the development of solutions. Themes and topics will vary from year to year in line with changing societal issues and the research projects of contributing staff.
Research Methods and Design | COMMS 707 | 30 Points
Critical survey of methodological approaches in the Communication field, including Indigenous and other non-Western methodologies. Students will also be guided through a process for defining their own research problem and establishing an appropriate methodological design. Prepares students to undertake a dissertation as well as covering skills transferable to professional contexts.
Special Topic | COMMS 709 | 30 Points
Topic will vary from year to year in line with respective academics leading the paper.
Dissertation | COMMS 793A/B | 60 Points
- display 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, organisations, 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
Why study with us
2025 QS World University Ranking, highest in New Zealand
Impactful University Globally, 2022 Times Higher Education World University Impact
Most International University, 2021 Times Higher Education list
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Accelerated Learning |
Complete this fast-tracked programme in 3 years part-time, one course at a time, all while you work. |
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100% Online |
Whether you’re balancing a career, raising a family, or simply pursuing your passions, you can advance your communication career without disrupting your life. Enjoy a world-class education at your convenience while fulfilling your other commitments. |
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Flexible Learning |
We know you are busy, so each course is thoughtfully designed to be flexible yet structured to help you gain the knowledge you need in the time you have. |
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Community |
Our extensive range of tools fosters highly engaging interaction, encouraging analytical dialogue, sharing of experiences, and strong connection with your peers. |
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Dedicated Support |
From your initial inquiry, to application and to graduation, you will be supported by your own advisor throughout your student journey. You will also have the opportunity to connect in real time with instructors and peers to share ideas and feedback. |
**Our Programme Advisors will provide all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, course fees, examinations and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates as per the University Calendar. Courses are paid per Semester. Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $4.44 per point (online). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.
Master of Communication – Enquire Now
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