C10100v2 Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Social Inquiry)

Overview

Social Inquiry is where social and political theory and practices of research and communication converge. This cross-disciplinary course investigates society, explores current issues, and questions implications of change and progress in the global community. Students undertake professional studies as well as social, cultural and communication theory and practice so they can ask questions, research issues, develop advocacy skills and effectively develop communication strategies.

Flexible, rigorous and professionally focused, this course is for students interested in social issues and in developing the skills to participate effectively in social change. Students explore cross-cultural, international, and local perspectives affecting society, and gain a broad range of skills and knowledge that prepares them for a variety of professions in the diverse fields of social science, media and communication.

Course aims

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Social Inquiry):

• have a broad range of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in social inquiry, research and advocacy
• are able to research and analyse wider social and public issues as well as apply critical analytical perspectives to daily and personal life
• have a critical cross-disciplinary knowledge of Australian societal, political, historical, anthropological and cultural traditions and institutions
• are aware of, and have the knowledge to, critically analyse social, political and cultural phenomena across time and space in local, national, regional and global contexts
• are sensitive to the multiple dimensions of social difference and inequality especially in terms of race and ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic class, sexuality, disability and age
• possess a critical understanding of, and an ability to engage with, the political and public policy processes, advocacy and social change
• are able to use communication techniques and strategies effectively to communicate social research to a wide variety of audiences
• have both general and specialised skills in the communication of social inquiry and research (e.g. media strategies, new media, electronic media, public communication, media production, etc.)
• seek opportunities to use their professional skills in researching, reporting, advocacy and change management to achieve a socially just and equal society
• have the knowledge and critical awareness of industries, practices and processes relevant to their professional interests
• are committed to ethical behaviour and practice, and
• are prepared for lifelong learning and are open to new perspectives on social, political and cultural life.

Career options

Career options include community development officer, community project manager, international aid worker, local or community historian, media or social researcher, policy officer, political adviser and social advocate.

Additional assumed knowledge

HSC English and computer literacy.

Additional recognition of prior learning

The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences has established recognition of prior learning packages with the following institutions for the courses listed below:

• TAFE NSW: Diploma in Community Services
• College of Higher Vocational Studies, City University of Hong Kong: Associate of Social Science in Community Services Management; Associate of Social Science in Public Administration and Management; Associate of Social Work

Course duration and attendance

This course is offered on a three-year, full-time basis.

Course structure

A total of 144 credit points is allocated to the course: 68 credit points for Disciplinary Strand subjects, 44 credit points for Professional Strand subjects and 32 credit points for Elective Studies subjects.

Industrial training/professional practice

Students can elect to undertake a professional experience project with a community, corporate, non-government or government organisation. There are opportunities for parliamentary placement.

Course completion requirements

Course program

The example program below is for a student commencing in Autumn semester.

Honours

Other information

Further information is available from the Faculty Student Centre on: