Bachelor of International Studies/Bachelor of Media (Public Relations and Advertising) (CRICOS course code 080066G) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 5 years. This dual qualification combines global perspectives with strategic communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in diplomacy, international business, media, and public relations. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international education. As a CRICOS-registered provider, UNSW can enrol international students under the ESOS Act protections. Located in Kensington, NSW, the university is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students in Australia. This page provides an overview of the course structure, indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa information for prospective international students.
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This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' (specifically 099999 - Society and Culture, n.e.c.). At the Bachelor Degree level (AQF Level 7), students typically develop foundational knowledge in international relations, cross-cultural communication, media theory, and public relations practice. The dual degree structure allows you to integrate two disciplines: international studies (exploring global politics, economics, and cultural systems) and media with a focus on public relations and advertising (covering strategic communication, campaign planning, and media production). Graduates gain analytical, research, and professional skills applicable across diverse industries. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with UNSW, this general guidance reflects typical learning outcomes for this level and field.
The course is delivered over 5 years (260 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a dual qualification, meaning you graduate with two separate bachelor degrees — Bachelor of International Studies and Bachelor of Media (Public Relations and Advertising) — simultaneously. This structure allows you to combine complementary areas of study and often reduces the total time compared to completing two degrees separately. Full-time study is typically required for international students to maintain visa compliance. UNSW offers various study modes; contact the provider for current availability.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$254,000, with non-tuition fees of approximately A$5,000, giving an estimated total of A$259,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., in Sydney, indicative weekly rent is around A$400–600, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$40–50), and the student visa application charge. These are not included in the estimated total. Always confirm current fees with the University of New South Wales (UNSW) directly via their website: www.unsw.edu.au.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent English test results). Prior qualifications expected include completion of senior secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12, with prerequisite subjects in English and possibly mathematics or humanities. Foundation/pathway options may be available through UNSW Global; refer to the provider for details. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Applications are assessed on an individual basis. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the entry criteria on the UNSW website and consulting with the institution's admissions team.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can undertake voluntary or paid work subject to visa conditions: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Any work must not compromise course progress. For work-integrated learning options, contact UNSW.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 6 km from the city centre. Sydney is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. The campus is well-served by public transport (bus and light rail), and nearby accommodation options include student housing in Kensington and surrounding areas. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia; budget accordingly.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and English language proficiency. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your stay. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions and obligations are set by the Department of Home Affairs — always check the latest information at homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent for personalised advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Bachelor Degree), field (Society and Culture), and location (NSW) to compare options. Confirm that The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is CRICOS-registered (code 00098G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications, application deadlines) and submit your application through UNSW's online portal. Provide all required documents including transcripts and English test scores. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW issues your CoE, use it to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, financial, and health cover requirements.
A dual degree offers the advantage of graduating with two qualifications in a shorter time frame, but it requires careful planning. Consider your career goals: international studies and media complement fields like diplomacy, global communications, and NGO work. However, the combined workload can be intense. Ensure you have strong time management skills and are prepared for a five-year commitment. Also evaluate the financial investment – total costs exceed A$250,000 not including living expenses. Sydney's high cost of living means budgeting for accommodation, transport, and daily expenses is essential. Finally, check UNSW's credit transfer policies and whether any previous study can shorten the duration.
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Bachelor of International Studies/Bachelor of Media (Public Relations and Advertising) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.