Graduate Certificate in Communication

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Create purposeful and contextualised programs in the areas of strategic communication or community engagement.
2. Examine and interpret research to identify and address challenges and opportunities in organisational and community-led engagement and communication, considering ethical and cultural impacts.
3. Critique and assess communication and engagement theory and practice informed by discourse and local and global contexts, with reference to best practice models.
4. Synthesise critical knowledge of strategic communication and/or community engagement with advanced digital and other professional skills to enable innovation in the profession.
5. Employ reflexive professional skills and judgement, underpinned by theory, to address real world problems.

Enhance your skills and boost your career potential with the University of Canberra’s 100% online Graduate Certificate in Communication. Designed for professionals ready to sharpen their expertise, this course will prepare you to step confidently into leadership roles in the fast-changing communications industry.

You’ll build practical and theoretical knowledge across media, communication, and digital engagement, gaining tools you can apply immediately in your career. Explore digital data analysis, visualisation techniques, innovation in the media environment, and strategies for developing campaigns that influence behaviour. Learn from industry-connected teachers who bring real-world insight into your online learning experience.

By graduation, you’ll have the skills, confidence, and industry knowledge to advance in diverse communication roles, from public relations and journalism to corporate change and political campaigning. With UC’s industry connections and flexible learning, you’ll be ready to thrive in an evolving and competitive field.

Recommended study pattern

Year 1

Semester 1

• Communication and Behaviour Change
• One Restricted Choice Unit

Semester 2

• Communication Trends and Innovation
• Digital Data Analytics and Visualisation

Award requirements

Completion of all subjects, as per the recommended study pattern.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $11,875

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

UC’s online learning is inspired by Canberra’s vibrant, progressive spirit. As the centre of Australian decision-making, Canberra is where ideas come to life—and we bring that energy to you, wherever you are. UC’s industry-focused approach connects you with expert guest speakers and hands-on projects that tackle real workplace challenges, boosting your employability and confidence. With flexible pathways and a renowned support network, UC helps you thrive and make a meaningful impact in your career..

Learn more about UC.

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QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

27

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

28

Applicants must have an undergraduate degree (AQF level 7) or equivalent.

Students who have completed a Certificate in Engagement with International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) may be eligible to receive Credit for 1 unit (3 Credit Points) with relevant work experience into the Engagement Stream.

Alternate entry pathways are available to IAP2 graduates without Bachelor's qualifications in accordance with the Admission (for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Coursework Courses) Procedure.

Please refer to the Faculty of Arts and Design website for full details and instructions.

You can use professional experience and prior learning to enter into a postgraduate qualification at UC through our Professional Pathway Entry program. If you have significant work experience or hold industry-recognised qualifications, this program could be your route to bypass undergraduate study and accelerate your career. Please touch base with our Future Students team to discuss your individual circumstances. 

In making an offer to an applicant, the University will give consideration to a range of factors including English proficiency, academic record and/or employment experience.

At UC, we want to help you get the credit you deserve for the hard work you've already done. Whether it’s from previous study, vocational training, or even relevant work experience, you might be eligible to fast-track your degree, finish sooner, and save money along the way.

What Can Count for Credit?

You could gain credit for:

• Completed or partially completed tertiary studies (from a university, TAFE, or college).
• Vocational training at Certificate III level or higher (Australian Qualifications Framework).
• Relevant work experience (if it’s connected to your area of study).

How Does It Work?

If you’ve studied at an institution that has a formal agreement with UC, your credit application will be automatically assessed when you apply for admission—no extra steps needed.

If you’re a domestic student and want credit for other study or work experience, you can apply after accepting your offer to study.