Diploma of Arts and Communication (UniLink)
40.0
Overview
Study arts and communication to learn how to address significant issues in today's society and make a difference in the world as an individual and part of a collaborative team.
Develop your creative skills and research-based knowledge, using critical thinking to offer solutions to the world’s most pressing problems. Learn about the ethical principles and cultural competencies that shape modern thinking, while you develop practical strategies for improving your oral and written communication.
Why UniLink?
Our UniLink diplomas are designed to provide a seamless connection from diploma to bachelor degree. They’re an alternative pathway – with a next gen difference! You’ll join our thriving Hawthorn campus community and gain access to all the same Swinburne facilities and support as your degree peers, with the addition of tailored support. You’ll have access to increased one-on-one time with your experienced teachers, English language development and learning support, smaller class sizes and increased class time to further develop the skills you need to succeed.
Transitioning into a degree
UniLink allow students to progress from one qualification to another where the first course is recognised as an entry requirement and/or provides advanced standing to the second. Completion of this course allows you to progress to these degrees and some more.
This information may change and should be used as a guide only. Credit available for advanced standing may vary depending on your chosen major.
-
Bachelor of Arts
60.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornSemester 1Semester 2Choose your major
Climate and Social Justice
Be ready to make your mark on a greener, more equitable future by developing a critical understanding of the social impacts of climate change.
Criminology and Social Change
Explore crime, its causes, policing, global issues, cybercrime, and policy-making to analyse trends and prevent criminal behaviour.
Ethics and Technology
Examine the use of data-harvesting by private corporations and governments and the plethora of resulting ethical issues – from privacy and surveillance to human rights, equity and security.
Indigenous Studies
Delve into Indigenous ways of being and doing, which are increasingly appreciated not only their historical value, but also for their place in contemporary society.
Literature and Creative Writing
Learn to harness the power of words to tell compelling stories that inform and inspire the world. Explore the traditional and latest methods to hone your writing practice.
Perspectives on Globalisation
Learn how globalisation has transformed our society. Understand international relations. Develop cultural competency skills and open your mind to world cultures.
Politics, Power and Technology
Question political structures and how new media technology has created opportunities for democratic mobilisation and participation, while opening up new ways to corrupt democratic processes.
Screen Studies and Popular Culture
Chart the history of screen technologies and use your creativity and initiative to anticipate what the future of entertainment will be.
-
Bachelor of Media and Communication
60.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornChoose your major
Advertising
Gain vital skills to succeed in the creative world of advertising. Explore effective design and strategy, advertising development and implementation. Create ads that hit the mark with audiences.
Cinema and Screen Studies
Explore the wide variety of film and TV genres, industry perspectives, and production styles. Benefit from a range of industry links with leading Screen Culture organisations.
Creative Writing and Publishing
Gain an understanding of creative text and popular culture in literature. Develop models for your own writing and critiquing skills in literature, while exploring subjects such as self and society.
Immersive Media
Learn how to develop content for the future of entertainment, business and advertising with a major in immersive media. Engage in 360, VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), and MR (Mixed Reality) interactive experiences.
Journalism
Combine traditional journalistic skills with online publishing and multimedia production. Learn the skills required for interacting with audiences, social networking and building online communities.
Public Relations
Influence the public perception of an organisation through engaging content, targeted messaging and strategic campaigns. This degree is accredited by the Public Relations Institute of Australia.
Social Media
Gain a comprehensive understanding of social media platforms within social, cultural and industry contexts. Learn how to analyse new and emerging media technologies and drive their use and innovation across industry.
-
Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Criminology
60.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornSemester 1Semester 2 -
Bachelor of Health Science
60.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornSemester 2Semester 1Choose your major
Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health
This major will equip you with the interdisciplinary skills needed to thrive at the intersection of healthcare, data science, and emerging technologies focusing on digital health systems.
Biomedical Science
Use cutting-edge, interactive tech to understand the human body in a range of health and disease states in our Biomedical Science major.
Clinical Technologies
Learn about anatomy and physiology using cutting-edge med-tech in our Clinical Technologies major, which is endorsed by the Australian Neurophysiological Scientists of Australia (ANSA).
Neuroscience
Learn how to interpret the data generated by MRI and MEG machines to identify healthy brains, brain disorders, and diseases of the central nervous system in our Neuroscience major.
Nutrition
If you've put dietitian or nutritionist on your career menu, learn how food affects our world in our hands-on lab-based nutrition major.
Psychology and Forensic Science
Our Psychology and Forensic Science major prepares you for a rewarding career applying specialist knowledge in psychology to aspects of the law, the justice system and forensic science.
Psychology and Psychophysiology
Our Psychology and Psychophysiology major explores the role of physiological processes in psychology to prepare you for an engaging career on the frontiers of science and technology.
Public Health and Health Promotion
Empower people to live their healthiest lives by harnessing the power of digital technology through our Public Health and Health Promotion major.
-
Bachelor of Games and Interactivity
65.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornSemester 1 -
Bachelor of Aviation Management
70.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornSemester 2Semester 1Choose your major
Uncrewed Aircraft Systems
Discover the future of flight with a major in Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAV). Gain a remote pilot licence and build skills in UAV design, navigation, aerodynamics and data analysis.
Aviation Operations
Designed in consultation with senior industry professionals, the Aviation Operations major prepares graduates for frontline and strategic roles in aviation and allied industries.
-
Bachelor of Arts
60.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornSemester 1Semester 2Choose your major
Climate and Social Justice
Be ready to make your mark on a greener, more equitable future by developing a critical understanding of the social impacts of climate change.
Criminology and Social Change
Explore crime, its causes, policing, global issues, cybercrime, and policy-making to analyse trends and prevent criminal behaviour.
Ethics and Technology
Examine the use of data-harvesting by private corporations and governments and the plethora of resulting ethical issues – from privacy and surveillance to human rights, equity and security.
Indigenous Studies
Delve into Indigenous ways of being and doing, which are increasingly appreciated not only their historical value, but also for their place in contemporary society.
Literature and Creative Writing
Learn to harness the power of words to tell compelling stories that inform and inspire the world. Explore the traditional and latest methods to hone your writing practice.
Perspectives on Globalisation
Learn how globalisation has transformed our society. Understand international relations. Develop cultural competency skills and open your mind to world cultures.
Politics, Power and Technology
Question political structures and how new media technology has created opportunities for democratic mobilisation and participation, while opening up new ways to corrupt democratic processes.
Screen Studies and Popular Culture
Chart the history of screen technologies and use your creativity and initiative to anticipate what the future of entertainment will be.
-
Bachelor of Media and Communication
60.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornChoose your major
Advertising
Gain vital skills to succeed in the creative world of advertising. Explore effective design and strategy, advertising development and implementation. Create ads that hit the mark with audiences.
Cinema and Screen Studies
Explore the wide variety of film and TV genres, industry perspectives, and production styles. Benefit from a range of industry links with leading Screen Culture organisations.
Creative Writing and Publishing
Gain an understanding of creative text and popular culture in literature. Develop models for your own writing and critiquing skills in literature, while exploring subjects such as self and society.
Immersive Media
Learn how to develop content for the future of entertainment, business and advertising with a major in immersive media. Engage in 360, VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), and MR (Mixed Reality) interactive experiences.
Journalism
Combine traditional journalistic skills with online publishing and multimedia production. Learn the skills required for interacting with audiences, social networking and building online communities.
Public Relations
Influence the public perception of an organisation through engaging content, targeted messaging and strategic campaigns. This degree is accredited by the Public Relations Institute of Australia.
Social Media
Gain a comprehensive understanding of social media platforms within social, cultural and industry contexts. Learn how to analyse new and emerging media technologies and drive their use and innovation across industry.
-
Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Criminology
60.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornSemester 1Semester 2 -
Bachelor of Health Science
60.0
Guaranteed Entry ATAR or more entry options3 years full-time or equivalent part-time 3 years full-timeHawthornSemester 1Semester 2Choose your major
Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health
This major will equip you with the interdisciplinary skills needed to thrive at the intersection of healthcare, data science, and emerging technologies focusing on digital health systems.
Biomedical Science
Use cutting-edge, interactive tech to understand the human body in a range of health and disease states in our Biomedical Science major.
Clinical Technologies
Learn about anatomy and physiology using cutting-edge med-tech in our Clinical Technologies major, which is endorsed by the Australian Neurophysiological Scientists of Australia (ANSA).
Neuroscience
Learn how to interpret the data generated by MRI and MEG machines to identify healthy brains, brain disorders, and diseases of the central nervous system in our Neuroscience major.
Nutrition
If you've put dietitian or nutritionist on your career menu, learn how food affects our world in our hands-on lab-based nutrition major.
Psychology and Forensic Science
Our Psychology and Forensic Science major prepares you for a rewarding career applying specialist knowledge in psychology to aspects of the law, the justice system and forensic science.
Psychology and Psychophysiology
Our Psychology and Psychophysiology major explores the role of physiological processes in psychology to prepare you for an engaging career on the frontiers of science and technology.
Public Health and Health Promotion
Empower people to live their healthiest lives by harnessing the power of digital technology through our Public Health and Health Promotion major.
Skills you’ll learn
- Media studies analysis
- Popular culture analysis
- Effective professional communication
- Academic English
- Working in teams and independently
- Science and technology communication
Support available to you
We provide integrated support to you as an international student to help develop the skills you need to make a successful transition to study with Swinburne. The support services available include:
- Embedded English language development within all course units
- Smaller class sizes to ensure personalised development and learning support
- Learning support services available 24/7
- Increased class time dedicated to developing academic and communication skills
- Access to expert teachers specialising in assisting non-English speaking students
Your career opportunities
After completion of the chosen bachelor degree, graduates may find employment in a wide range industries and associated areas.
- Community development officer
- Government relations coordinator
- Political correspondent
- Campaign coordinator
- Journalist
- Intelligence analyst
Key codes
International student visa
International students in Australia who hold student visas are required to study full-time and on campus. Courses that are taught entirely online are only available to international students studying outside Australia or those in Australia who are not on a student visa. Online courses are not available to international students in Australia who hold a student visa.
Why choose a UniLink diploma?
No time or cost added to your degree
Seamless and guaranteed connection to your degree
24/7 support for Academic English and skill development
Smaller class sizes and one-on-one time with teachers
Admissions
Successful completion of Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or its equivalent, such as an interstate or international Year 12 qualification.
Non-Year 12 entry
Completion or partial completion of an approved tertiary qualification (including certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, associate degrees and degrees). Additional performance criteria and prerequisite requirements may also apply.
Students admitted to the course with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be eligible for academic credit.
Applicants without a formal qualification but with significant and relevant work experience will be considered if they can demonstrate that they can undertake the course with a reasonable prospect of success.
The University may determine selection criteria and restrictions in respect of courses to apply in addition to these entry requirements.
Subject adjustments:
- A study score of 25 in any Business, any Humanities, Literature, any LOTE, Politics or Theatre Studies equals 2 aggregate points per study.
- A study score of 30 in any Business, any Humanities, Literature, any LOTE, Politics or Theatre Studies equals 3 aggregate points per study.
Overall maximum of 10 points. Subject adjustment points are applied to the aggregate, not the ATAR.
Successful completion of Australian Year 12, or equivalent overseas qualification.
Course prerequisites
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a minimum study score of 20 in English OR at least 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL).
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a minimum study score of 20 in English OR at least 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL).
Admission requirements
Meeting the minimum entry requirements for the course does not guarantee an offer of a place. Check admission requirements for general information about the admission process.
English language requirements
Satisfactory completion of one of the following:
- IELTS overall band of 5.5 (Academic Module) with no individual band below 5.0.
- Swinburne’s English for Academic Purposes EAP 4 Upper Intermediate with overall 65%, and all skills 60% or above
- or equivalent measures available at English language requirements.
Need to undertake an English assessment for entry?
A prerequisite for many courses, the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) can now be done at our Hawthorn campus.
Finding your fit
At Swinburne, we recognise that not one size fits all. If this course doesn’t meet all your study criteria, check out these alternatives.
Apply for a pathway course
These pathways are recognised as an entry requirement to allow students to progress to a UniLink diploma.
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Diploma of Screen and Media - Film and Television
Full-time Full-time1 year full-timeHawthornMarch Intake -
Diploma of Justice
Full-time Full-time12 months full-timeHawthorn -
Diploma of Professional Writing and Editing
Full-time Full-time1 year full-timeHawthornMarch intake
How credit points work
To qualify for the award of the Diploma of Arts and Communication (UniLink), students must successfully complete eight units (100 credit points) comprising:
Transitioning into a degree
UniLink allows students to progress from one qualification to another where the first course is recognised as an entry requirement and/or provides advanced standing to the second. Completion of this course allows you to progress to these courses.
Your units
| Units of study | Unit code |
|---|---|
| Core units | |
|
Grand Challenges - Industrial Revolution to Digital Age
Core unit, 12.5 credit points |
ART10003 |
|
Introduction to Media Studies
Core unit, 12.5 credit points |
MDA10009 |
|
Popular Culture
Core unit, 12.5 credit points |
SOC10016 |
|
Applied Communication
Core unit, 12.5 credit points |
COM10009 |
|
Indigenous Studies
Core unit, 12.5 credit points |
INS10003 |
|
Media Content Development
Core unit, 12.5 credit points |
JOU10009 |
| Elective units [Choose two units] | |
|
Global Media Industries
Elective unit, 12.5 credit points |
MDA10010 |
|
Introduction to Power in the Digital Age
Elective unit, 12.5 credit points |
PHI10009 |
|
Introduction to Innovation in Science and Technology
Elective unit, 12.5 credit points |
MDA10011 |
|
Introduction to Environment and Society
Elective unit, 12.5 credit points |
SOC10015 |
2025 fees
Commonwealth Supported Fee* ($AUD)
$16,032
Yearly fee* ($AUD)
$33,440.00
Fees are estimates only
Published student tuition fees for 2025 unit enrolments in HE Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) and Undergraduate Full Fee Paying (FFP) are subject to change based on individual circumstances at enrolment. Fees may vary for units studied in future years, with part-time fees being proportionally lower depending on the number of units taken per semester. Enrolled students will receive reasonable notice of any fee changes before payment is due.
Fees are estimates only
The indicative course fees shown apply to international students for the relevant year, based on a standard study load per year. Fees are assessed according to actual study load each semester, with variations to study load resulting in tuition fee adjustments. These fees generally include the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) and are subject to annual review. Enrolled students will receive reasonable notice of any fee changes before payment is due.
How do I pay my fees?
HECS-HELP is a loan and discount scheme available to you if you are eligible and enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place. A HECS-HELP loan can cover all or part of your contribution amount. You can also choose to pay your fees up front.
International students need to pay tuition fees up-front by the relevant due date. You can find the due dates on your Statement of Account.
To pay your fees:
- log in to My Financials
- check your Australian bank account details are correct
- check your Statement of Account to see how much you owe
- pay using your preferred payment method.
Eligibility for HECS-HELP
You are eligible for a HECS-HELP loan if you have been offered a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) for an undergraduate degree at Swinburne or a UniLink course, and you:
- are an Australian citizen and doing at least one unit of your course in Australia; or
- hold a permanent humanitarian visa and will be living in Australia for the duration of your course; or
- hold a New Zealand Special Category visa and meet the special eligibility requirements for New Zealand citizens.
Student services and amenities fee
This funding serves to improve the student experience at Swinburne. You may use many or just some of the services and amenities that the fee provides.
The fee shown is the capped amount for 2025.
This funding serves to improve the student experience at Swinburne. You may use many or just some of the services and amenities that the fee provides.
This amenities fee is included within your annual tuition fee listed above. The fee shown is the capped amount for 2025.
Please refer to the Student Services Amenities Fee page for more information.
SSAF fee* ($AUD)
$365.00
SSAF fee* ($AUD)
$365.00
Future scholarships
Scholarship applications for 2025 are open. Scholarships at Swinburne are about providing opportunity, promoting equity and recognising excellence and achievement. We want you to reach your potential and achieve your life and career goals.
Our handy guide will assist you to gather documents for your application.
When you apply for a Swinburne course, we automatically consider you for an international scholarship of up to 20 per cent off your course fees – no separate application required! Just apply for your Swinburne course of choice and when we review your course application, we will also assess you for an international scholarship.
Apply through an agent
Most international students use an education agent to help them through the application process. Swinburne has agents all over the world that can help you with your application to study. Search for a Swinburne representative in your country. If your country is not listed, please contact us.
Apply directly
Ready to take on a new challenge and reach your academic goals? If you already know which course you want to study and understand the entry requirements, what are you waiting for? Apply online! Remember, you cannot apply direct if you have an active VTAC application.
Apply through VTAC
International students currently studying Year 12 in Australia must apply through VTAC. VTAC is the central office that administers the application processes for places in tertiary courses, scholarships and the Special Entry Access Scheme at universities, TAFEs and independent tertiary colleges in Victoria.
VTAC is the central office that administers the application processes for places in tertiary courses, scholarships and the Special Entry Access Scheme at universities, TAFEs and independent tertiary colleges in Victoria.