Bachelor of Development Studies/Bachelor of Media and Communication (CRICOS course code 113057K) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 4 years. This dual qualification combines two complementary fields: development studies, focusing on social and economic progress in communities, and media and communication, covering journalism, public relations, and digital media. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 00109J), it meets Australian government standards for international students. Graduates gain skills to work in NGOs, government, media, and corporate sectors. This page details fees, entry requirements, work component, and how to apply.
Bachelor of Development Studies/Bachelor of Media and Communication (CRICOS course code 113057K) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) (CRICOS 00109J) over 4 years (208 weeks). This is a dual qualification, meaning you earn two bachelor degrees simultaneously — a Bachelor of Development Studies and a Bachelor of Media and Communication. The field of education is Society and Culture (09), specifically Studies in Human Society (0903). The course is taught entirely in English at the Callaghan campus. UoN is a government-owned university established in 1965, with a strong research focus and over 37,000 students from more than 100 countries. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring tuition assurance and quality standards.
This double degree integrates development studies and media/communication. In the development stream, you explore theories of social change, global inequality, community development, and sustainable development. In media and communication, you learn writing for different platforms, media production, strategic communication, and audience analysis. You'll develop critical thinking, research, and cross-cultural skills. Field of education 0903 covers studies in human society, including sociology, anthropology, and development. Graduates typically work in international development agencies, media organisations, government policy, or advocacy. While the syllabus is set by UoN, you can expect a combination of lectures, tutorials, workshops, and practical projects. This degree prepares you for careers that bridge communication and social impact.
As per the CRICOS register, this course runs for 4 years (208 weeks) of full-time study. All instruction is in English, with no foundation studies required. The dual qualification structure means you complete requirements for two bachelor degrees within the same period. This typically involves integrated curriculum and cross-credited units, reducing the total study time compared to doing two separate degrees. You'll attend classes at the University of Newcastle's Callaghan campus, with access to modern facilities. While full-time on-campus study is standard, UoN may offer some online components for flexibility. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Course fees are set by The University of Newcastle (UoN) and are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. For Bachelor of Development Studies/Bachelor of Media and Communication, tuition is approximately A$181,112 for the full 4 years. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services and amenities fee) are about A$1,608, bringing the estimated total to A$182,720. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Newcastle are generally lower than in Sydney: weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$200–350, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$30–50. Always confirm current fees with UoN's official website (www.newcastle.edu.au) as prices are subject to change.
International applicants need to demonstrate English language proficiency. For this degree, the typical requirement is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0. Equivalent tests (TOEFL, PTE) are also accepted. Academic entry requires completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent. UoN considers prior academic records from your home country. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry — contact UoN for options. These are general guidelines; always check UoN's official entry requirements for the intake year. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission due to competitive selection. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider for exact criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning (WIL) component. According to CRICOS data, it involves 14 weeks of placement at 10 hours per week, totalling approximately 140 hours. This could be an industry internship, community project, or clinical/professional placement in an organisation relevant to development or media. WIL provides practical experience and networking opportunities, enhancing employability. UoN's Career Development team assists in finding placements. International students must ensure their visa allows work — Student visa (Subclass 500) permits up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always comply with visa conditions.
This course is delivered at The University of Newcastle's Callaghan campus, located in the suburb of Callaghan, New South Wales (NSW). Callaghan is about 12 km from Newcastle city centre, accessible by car and bus. Newcastle is a coastal city with a population of over 500,000, including a large student community. It has multiple CRICOS-registered providers (over 20) across various study levels. Living costs are moderate: rent A$200–350/week, groceries A$80–150/week, transport A$30–50/week. Public transport includes buses and trains connecting to Sydney (2.5 hours). The campus features libraries, studios, and sports facilities. ESOS Act protections apply to all students at CRICOS-registered locations. Newcastle's relaxed lifestyle and lower cost of living make it an attractive study destination.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UoN, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. On a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependants may also work. Visa conditions require maintaining full-time enrolment and satisfactory academic progress. This is general guidance — always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for your specific situation. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Development Studies/Bachelor of Media and Communication at The University of Newcastle (UoN):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Society and Culture), and location (NSW). Confirm that UoN and this course (113057K) are CRICOS-registered.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UoN's international admissions page. Check entry requirements (academic and English), prepare transcripts, and submit an application before the deadline. You may need to provide a personal statement or portfolio. UoN may offer conditional or unconditional offers.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you accept the offer and pay the deposit, UoN issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE, and evidence of funds. Visa processing times vary.
Newcastle offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. With over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, the city has a vibrant international student community. The University of Newcastle is the largest, but other institutions also offer pathways. The cost of living is lower than Sydney or Melbourne, making it budget-friendly. You'll enjoy beaches, national parks, and a growing arts scene. Public transport connects campus to the city and suburbs. Consider your preference for campus size, course flexibility, and lifestyle. Newcastle is particularly appealing for those seeking a balance between study and recreation. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses here are protected by ESOS. Take a virtual tour or visit during open day to see if it fits you.
Ready to take the next step? Use our course finder to explore more bachelor degrees, or apply directly to The University of Newcastle (UoN) following the 3-step guide above.
Bachelor of Development Studies/Bachelor of Media and Communication is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.