Why study the Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication with UTS Online?
Top 100 University Globally1
Top 5 in Australia for Communication and Media Studies2
Top 10 in Australia for graduate employability3
100% online with support from enrolment through to graduation
1QS World University Rankings, 2024. 2QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024 3QS Graduate Employability Rankings, 2024
Develop the foundation to influence change through communication
Embark on a transformative journey with UTS Online's Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication. Gain an essential understanding of the forces driving human connection and develop the foundation to influence change through communication.
Learn how to apply key theories and concepts from contemporary practice to achieve business or organisational goals. Equip yourself with skills in intercultural communication and driving effective stakeholder engagement. Obtain know-how in digital and emergent communication practices and delivering multimodal integrated communication campaigns.
Experience the convenience of 100% online delivery, with regular intakes every two months, allowing you to balance your personal and professional commitments.
Who is this course for?
The Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication is suitable for:
- Corporate communication professionals looking to refine their skills in media relations, stakeholder engagement and brand management.
- Public relations specialists aiming to enhance their expertise in crisis communication, reputation management and storytelling.
- Marketing and digital communication professionals seeking to develop strategic messaging that aligns with brand and business objectives.
- Government and policy advisors who need to communicate complex information to diverse audiences effectively.
- Professionals transitioning into strategic communication roles who want to build expertise in audience engagement, media strategy and campaign execution.
See entry requirements under course information for more eligibility information.
What you will study
The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication comprises four online subjects (24 credit points [CP] in total).
Complete all of the following subjects:
- Understanding Communication in Society
- Intercultural and International Communication
- Emergent Communication Practices
- Driving Stakeholder Engagement
Note: Most UTS Online subjects are valued at 6 credit points each. For detailed subject descriptions and further information, please download a course guide.
Flexible course options
The Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication comprises 4 online subjects (24 credit points (CP) in total).
Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication may qualify to advance to the Master of Strategic Communication, requiring only 8 additional subjects to complete the Master's degree.
Graduate Certificate
4 Subjects | 8 months
Or continue studying
Master's
+8 Subjects | 2 Electives | 24 months
Graduate with a Master's degree
One of our Student Enrolment Advisors can assist you with more information, including alternative pathways.
Study pathways
The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences offers 2 online Graduate Certificate courses to support your career in communications.
The Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication and the Graduate Certificate in Corporate Communication both provide a pathway to the Master of Strategic Communication.
This allows you to tailor your studies to align with your career goals and develop specialist skills in the areas of communication that matter most to you.
Learning outcomes
Develop strategic communication solutions
Apply theoretical and technical knowledge to create and evaluate communication strategies that address contemporary organisational challenges. Use multi-platform approaches to enhance audience engagement and brand reputation.
Communicate with cultural awareness and inclusivity
Recognise and navigate diverse cultural, social and professional communication environments. Develop strategies that foster inclusivity, equity and ethical engagement with global and Indigenous communities.
Think critically and solve communication challenges
Critically analyse communication models and synthesise complex information across various media channels. Use strategic thinking and creativity to craft messaging that resonates with diverse audiences.
Engage and influence stakeholders through effective communication
Refine your ability to communicate clearly and persuasively across written, verbal and digital formats. Build relationships with key stakeholders through ethical, impactful and audience-centred communication.
Course information
Entry requirements
Applicants must have completed a UTS-recognised academic qualification, or equivalent, as follows:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Graduate Certificate
- Graduate Diploma
- Master’s degree or
- Doctoral degree or equivalent
Applicants without an appropriate academic qualification may apply on the basis of a minimum of four (4) years of full-time, or equivalent, relevant work* experience and a general capacity to undertake tertiary education#.
*Relevant work experience is defined from within the ANZSCO groups 01 Managers, 02 Professionals, 03 Technicians and Trade Workers, 04 Community and Personal Service Workers, 05 Clerical and Administrative Workers and 06 Sales Workers.
#These applicants must provide a 300-word personal statement outlining their interest in the course and clearly articulating how the course intended outcomes align with their career expectations; a CV outlining their work experience; and a Statement of Service confirming the dates of employment and the position held within the organisation.
Eligibility for admission does not guarantee an offer of a place.
Want to check your eligibility?
Not only do we have the right tools and support teams to help you – we have people who care about your success.
Career outcomes
The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication provides foundational knowledge and skills for professionals looking to advance or transition into strategic communication roles. This course prepares you to craft and deliver effective communication strategies.
Upon completion, graduates can pursue roles such as:
- Communication Officer
- Public Relations Coordinator
- Digital Content Strategist
- Corporate Communications Assistant
$96,000
Average starting salary
Professionals in Communications and Public Relations in Australia earn an average starting salary of approximately $96,000 per year, highlighting the competitive compensation in the corporate communications sector.
(Talent.com)
10.9%
Projected employment growth by 2029
Employment for professionals in strategic communications is projected to grow by 10.9% by 2029, reflecting expanding opportunities in the field.
(Jobs and Skills Australia)
2500 +
Job listings across Australia
As of December 2024, there are over 2,587 job listings for Strategic Communication and Engagement roles across Australia, indicating a robust demand for professionals in this field.
(Seek)
Upcoming intakes
UTS Online courses have 6 intakes per year. The diagram below shows all upcoming intakes. Our next intake is highlighted below.
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Jan
2025 -
Mar
2025 -
May
2025 -
Jun
2025 -
Aug
2025 -
Oct
2025
Meet our Course Director
“With an increasing number of jobs in business, Government and the community/charity sectors all requiring skills in managing and implementing communication activities, we have created a program that introduces people to the skills and knowledge they will need to deliver strategic communication activities as their career progresses. This Graduate Certificate program gives students a different learning experience and helps to prepare them to thrive in the communication environment now, and into the future.”
Dr Andrew McCowan
Course Director, Master of Strategic Communication
Download a course guide
Download a course guide to explore detailed subject descriptions, entry requirements, pathway options and fee information.
Frequently asked questions
The Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication prepares you for roles such as Public Relations Officer, Communications Manager, Media Advisor or Engagement Officer. Graduates can find opportunities in communication agencies or 'in-house' positions across corporate, government, and non-profit sectors.
"At UTS Online, your success is our priority, and that doesn't change when you study remotely. We're committed to providing you with a comprehensive range of student support services, guiding you from enrolment right through to graduation.
As a UTS student, you'll enjoy access to an array of support services, including:
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Your own dedicated Student Success Advisor, available to answer any course-related questions you may have to keep you on track
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UTS Career Hub for work experience and networking opportunities
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Assignment writing and academic support from teachers & lecturers
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Public speaking and peer learning support
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Confidential medical and mental health services.
Connect with us to learn more about how we support your success while studying for a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communications at UTS Online."
Assignments in our subjects are authentic, relevant and often grounded in your personal clinical context. They vary according to the subject and include, but are not limited to clinical reports, posters, online quizzes and vivas (oral assessment), podcasts, recorded presentations, education tools, proposals, protocols and professional portfolios. You will not be required to complete exams or group assignments to graduate the Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communications.
When studying the Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communications, your online study experience includes:
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Modules on strategic communication tools and techniques
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Case studies for applying learning in practical scenarios
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Academic and peer support throughout your studies
Here’s a video example showcasing key features of our online learning platform, including tools designed to enhance your study experience.
For practical tips on balancing your studies with work and life, click here to learn how to achieve your goals. Remember, our team is just an email or call away to support you every step of the way.
Related courses
“Knowing that I've got the research behind me through the Master's course is going to give me a lot more confidence when I step into a room where decisions need to be made.”
Joel G, UTS Online Student
“Participating in the course has given me more opportunities at my workplace and has led to me being offered a new role. I absolutely love the flexibility of learning online. Being able to join evening classes; really adaptable to my lifestyle”
Kim M, UTS Online Student
“The flexibility to be able to do it any time, anywhere, just made completing the Masters so much easier.”
Bianca N, UTS Online Student
“I'm really impressed by how the course was structured and the way that I could connect with my peers. I also really enjoyed the opportunity to connect what I was learning, all of the theory to my professional world.”
Sonia D, UTS Online Student
“To be able to connect with these industry experts and also so many different students from so many different industries really allowed you to get stuck in and just explore what else is out there.”
Lauren S, UTS Online Student
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