Bachelor of Commerce (Public Relations)

Public relations (PR) is about managing information between private and public spaces between organizations and stakeholders, individuals and the public, or a combination of these. The key is effective communication and the way this information is planned and executed. Public relations can create goodwill and a favorable public image that helps shape and maintain the reputation of an organization, event or person.

This degree

After a common first year in business, you can major in PR from your second year. If you enjoy writing and communication then the PR major may be right for you with roles such as media relations assistant, digital communication consultant, public relations manager, communications manager or corporate communications specialist.

You will also undertake a final-year capstone subject that lets you apply everything you've learned up to that point in collaboration with students from other disciplines. Plus, you have the option of applying for an internship that provides work-integrated learning.

What you will study

The degree covers a variety of subjects, including business communication, PR concepts, PR writing, advertising and creative strategies, digital marketing, corporate identity and branding, marketing communications, and PR campaigns. You will learn how to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders using a range of media. You will also learn how to evaluate the cultural and organizational contexts, key trends and ethical issues influencing contemporary PR, and be able to critically evaluate the role of PR in society and organizations. Working with some of Australia's largest public relations companies, you will be able to see firsthand where your career could take you.

Additional Information:

First and second-year subjects can also be completed at the following locations:

• UOW Batemans Bay - UAC 753604

• UOW Bega - UAC 753605

• UOW Shoalhaven - UAC 753603

• UOW Southern Highlands - UAC 753606

• UOW Southern Sydney - UAC 753607

Course Learning Outcomes

Course Learning Outcomes are statements of learning achievement that are expressed in terms of what the learner is expected to know, understand and be able to do upon completion of a course. Students graduating from this course will be able to demonstrate:

Entry Requirements

Applicants need to have achieved the required score in a qualification equivalent to the completion of 13 years of schooling in Australia.

In order to succeed in your chosen course, it is assumed you have completed relevant subjects in your senior high school studies or other relevant qualifications. This is particularly important for degrees which have a strong basis in Mathematics or Science.

The Faculty of Business is a signatory to the Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME), a global initiative of the United Nations. The PRME endorses institutions that champion responsible management education, research and thought leadership.

Why choose this course

UOW Business students experience a modern curriculum that doesn’t merely teach business theory but applies it to everyday business contexts. We develop professionals, managers and business leaders with critical thinking skills who will succeed in their chosen fields.

You have the opportunity to gain practical, real-world experience and make professional connections that will help launch your career, including the opportunity to participate in our Business Internship program, which could see you being partnered with industry leaders such as Commonwealth Bank, Cancer Council, World Vision Australia and Gazal.

The Faculty of Business is a signatory to the Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME), a global initiative of the United Nations. The PRME endorses institutions that champion responsible management education, research and thought leadership.

Career opportunities

• Auditor

• Banker

• Analyst

• Financial controller

• Accountant

• Policy advisor

• Business adviser

• OHS officer

• HR manager consultant

• Stockbroker

• Insurance broker

• Fund manager

• Exporter/Importer

• Public relations coordinator

• Market researcher

• Advertising executive

• Brand/product manager

• Event manager