Bachelor of Communication in Creative Writing Master of Teaching in Secondary Education

Course overview

Bachelor of Communication in Creative Writing Master of Teaching in Secondary Education (CRICOS course code 118359M) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of Technology Sydney (UTS) over 4 years. This unique combined degree allows you to graduate with both a Bachelor of Communication and a Master of Teaching, equipping you to teach English and creative writing in secondary schools. The course is registered on CRICOS, meaning it has been assessed to meet the Australian Government's quality standards for international education. As a dual qualification, you save time compared to studying each degree separately, and you benefit from an integrated curriculum that connects communication theory with teaching practice. UTS is one of 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, and its CRICOS provider code is 00099F. The course focuses on field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 100705 Written Communication, with a work component of 16 weeks, 30 hours per week, totalling approximately 480 hours of industry placement.

What you'll study

This course covers the field of Written Communication (100705) under Creative Arts. You will develop advanced writing skills across creative, critical, and professional genres, alongside a deep understanding of how to teach English and literacy in secondary school settings. Typical learning outcomes for a bachelor degree at AQF Level 7 include broad theoretical and technical knowledge, cognitive and creative skills to analyse and generate ideas, and communication skills to present information clearly. As this is a dual qualification, you also study master's-level content in education, including curriculum design, assessment, and classroom management. The combination prepares you to become a confident communicator and an effective secondary teacher. While the specific syllabus is determined by UTS, graduates typically leave with a portfolio of creative work, practical teaching experience, and the ability to design engaging lessons for diverse learners. The work-integrated learning component ensures you apply your skills in real classrooms or communications roles.

Duration and study mode

The course duration is 4 years (208 weeks on the CRICOS register), studied full-time. The language of instruction is English. This is a dual qualification, meaning you simultaneously study the bachelor and master degrees, graduating with both after four years. Dual qualifications are designed to be streamlined, often allowing you to complete the combined content in less time than two separate degrees. UTS offers this course as a face-to-face program on its City Campus in Haymarket, Sydney. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your student visa conditions. The course structure integrates the two qualifications, with the first two years focusing on communication and creative writing, and the latter two years incorporating teaching studies and professional placement.

Fees (indicative — set by University of Technology Sydney (UTS))

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$175,600 for the full 4 years. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, though you should budget for textbooks, materials, and other course-related costs. The estimated total is A$175,600, but this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Sydney are estimated at around A$25,000–$30,000 per year, including rent, groceries, and transport. For example, weekly rent for shared accommodation is approximately A$300–$450, groceries A$80–$150, and a public transport pass around A$40–$60. Always check UTS's official website for the most current fee structure, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

English language proficiency is typically required at IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (equivalent scores from other tests like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted). For this dual degree, you will need to meet the entry requirements for both the bachelor and master components. This usually includes completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent with a competitive grade, and for the master's level, a recognised bachelor degree (or concurrent enrolment as part of the pathway). Some prior study in education or communication may be advantageous. If you do not meet direct entry requirements, UTS may offer foundation studies or pathway programs. These are available through UTS Insearch or other providers. Check with UTS for specific prerequisite subjects. HeadStart Academy recommends referring to the provider's website for detailed entry criteria.

Work component

Yes, this course includes a work component of 16 weeks, 30 hours per week, totalling approximately 480 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) takes the form of professional experience placements, likely in secondary school classrooms or communication settings. WIL is a key feature of Australian degrees, helping you gain real-world skills and industry connections. For teaching degrees, this is typically supervised teaching practice in schools, where you plan and deliver lessons under the guidance of experienced teachers. For the communication side, you might undertake internships in publishing, media, or corporate communications. This hands-on experience not only enhances your CV but also satisfies registration requirements for teaching in Australia.

Delivery locations

The course is delivered at University of Technology Sydney (City Campus) in HAYMARKET, NSW. Haymarket is part of Sydney's central business district, close to Chinatown and Darling Harbour. UTS City Campus is well-served by public transport, including Central Station (walking distance) and multiple bus routes. Sydney is Australia's largest city, with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant international student community. The cost of living is higher than in other Australian cities, but the city offers diverse cultural experiences, excellent infrastructure, and strong employment prospects for graduates.

Student visa

International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and have sufficient OSHC for the duration. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating you intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Financial capacity is required to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, ensuring education quality and refunds. For visa advice, consult a registered MARA migration agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.

Is Sydney right for you?

Sydney is a global city with a strong economy, diverse culture, and excellent education infrastructure. For students in creative writing and teaching, Sydney offers a rich literary scene, many schools for practical placements, and a multicultural environment that enhances teaching skills. However, the cost of living is among the highest in Australia. Typical weekly expenses: rent $300–$450 (shared), groceries $80–$150, transport $40–$60. Sydney has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, so you'll be part of a large international student community. Public transport connects UTS City Campus to all parts of the city. Consider whether the vibrant city lifestyle and career opportunities outweigh the higher cost.

Ready to take the next step? Explore CRICOS-registered courses and providers on HeadStart Academy. All data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — free and transparent. Start your journey today.

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