Welcome to Communications. Welcome to AUT

Transcription

1 COMMUNICATIONS UNDERGRADUATE STUDY GUIDE

2 Welcome to Communications Welcome to AUT E ngā mana, e ngā reo E te iti, e te rahi E ngā mātāwaka o ngā tōpito o te ao Ngā mahuetanga iho e kawe nei i ngā moemoeā o rātou mā Tēnā koutou katoa Welcome to Auckland University of Technology (AUT) and the opportunity to study towards a career in the growing world of communications and media. Print, broadcast and new media are central to our lives as citizens, and shape and reflect our perceptions and reactions to the world. We make choices on everything from policy decisions to consumer purchases based on the messages we receive. AUT s graduates help create those messages. As producers, journalists, creative advertising professionals and communication managers, AUT communications graduates help decide the media s look, sound, feel and flavour. These are exciting and demanding careers that constantly change to shape communication for the demands of today and tomorrow. It s a changing world and, in a challenging global environment, the communication industries are at the forefront. The demand for our graduates is high because the standard is high. The rewards are there if you re equipped with the necessary skills and engage critically and analytically with the world of contemporary communications. In order to give you those skills, our modern purpose-built facilities feature screen and television studios, a motion capture and chroma key studio, performance studio, radio station, sound and edit suites, digital media computer labs, and media centre. Our qualifications will put you into real working situations, and our teaching and facilities will prepare you for the real world of the media and communication. Piki mai rā, kake mai rā, Nau mai, haere mai ki tēnei o ngā wānanga Whakatau mai i raro i te korowai āhuru o Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makau Rau To the prestigious, the many voices The few, the great To those of all races and creeds We who remain to fulfil the dreams and aspirations of the ancestors Greetings one and all Climb, ascend Embark on the journey of knowledge Let us at AUT embrace and empower you To strive for and achieve excellence Te whakatupu i te kōunga, i te mana taurite me ngā tikanga matatika, i ngā pūkenga ako, i ngā pūkenga whakaako me te āta rangahau hei hāpai i ngā hāpori whānui o te motu, otirā, o te ao. To foster excellence, equity and ethics in learning, teaching, research and scholarship, and in so doing serve our regional, national and international communities. Associate Professor Alan Cocker MA (Hons), PhD Auck Head of School, Communication Studies

3 Contents Course information Bachelor of Communication Studies 06 Overview 07 Course planner 08 Advertising Creativity 10 Creative Industries 12 Digital Media 14 Journalism 16 Public Relations 18 Radio 20 Television and Screen Production About AUT 02 AUT s faculties and schools 03 Qualifications and study pathways 04 Why study communications at AUT? 26 University life 32 Campus map Applying for your programme 28 University entrance 30 Fees and payment 31 How to apply 31 Find out more 22 Certificate in Communication Studies 23 Graduate Diploma in Advertising Creativity 24 Graduate Diploma in Pacific Journalism 25 Overview of our postgraduate qualifications Images 1, 2, 4 on pages 4 and 5 by Simon Devitt Photographer. The information contained in this study guide is primarily intended for domestic students. International students should visit or international.centre@aut.ac.nz Disclaimer: Although every reasonable effort is made to ensure accuracy, the information in this document is provided as a general guide only for students and is subject to alteration. All students enrolling at AUT should consult its official document, the AUT Calendar, which is available online at to ensure that they are aware of, and comply with, all regulations, requirements and policies. The information contained in this study guide was correct at the time of print, April

4 AUT s faculties and schools AUT University has five faculties and 15 schools. The light orange box in the diagram below shows where the programmes in this study guide sit within AUT. FACULTY OF BUSINESS AND LAW TE ARA PAKIHI ME TE TURE Business School Te Kura Kaipakihi Law School Te Kura Ture FACULTY OF CULTURE AND SOCIETY TE ARA KETE ARONUI School of Education Te Kura Mātauranga School of Hospitality and Tourism Te Kura Taurimatanga me te Mahi Tāpoi School of Language and Culture Te Kura Reo me te Ahurea FACULTY OF DESIGN AND CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES TE ARA AUAHA School of Art and Design Te Kura Toi a Hoahoa School of Communication Studies Te Kura Whakapāho School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences Te Kura Mātai Pūhanga, Rorohiko, Pāngarau Colab: Creative Technologies Marautanga Matatini TE ARA POUTAMA FACULTY OF MĀORI AND INDIGENOUS DEVELOPMENT School of Social Sciences and Public Policy Te Kura Pūtaiao ā-iwi me ngā Kaupapa Tūmatanui FACULTY OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES TE ARA HAUORA A PŪTAIAO School of Applied Sciences Te Kura Whakamahi Pūtaiao School of Clinical Sciences Te Kura Mātai Haumanu School of Interprofessional Health Studies Te Kura Pākeho Ngaiotanga o Ngā Marau Akoranga Hauora School of Public Health and Psychosocial Studies Te Kura Hauora Tūmatanui School of Sport and Recreation Te Kura Hākinakina 02

5 Qualifications and study pathways PRE-DEGREE UNDERGRADUATE POSTGRADUATE LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5 LEVEL 6 LEVEL 7 LEVEL 8 LEVEL 9 LEVEL 10 Certificate in Communication Studies Bachelor of Communication Studies Bachelor of Communication Studies (Honours) Master of Communication Studies Doctor of Philosophy Conjoint programme: Postgraduate Diploma in Communication Studies Master of Philosophy Bachelor of Business & Bachelor of Communication Studies Postgraduate Certificate in Communication Studies Double degree: Bachelor of Communication Studies & Bachelor of Laws Graduate Diploma in Advertising Creativity Graduate Diploma in Pacific Journalism Please note: 1) Completion of one qualification doesn t guarantee entry to a higher level qualification. 2) Apply for the qualification you are best suited for you don t necessarily have to enrol in the qualification that appears at the left of the above diagram. 3) Some qualifications in the above diagram may be prerequisites to and not credit towards higher level qualifications. 4) The academic year is from February to November. For more information contact the AUT Student Centre on 0800 AUT UNI ( ) or visit 03

6 1 Why study communications at AUT? Widely recognised qualifications Our communications programmes are well regarded by the industry, and you find our graduates in roles across the media and communication industries. AUT students and graduates are internationally recognised, and frequently win top industry awards such as the CAANZ AXIS awards, ORCA awards, Cannes International Advertising awards and NZ Student Marketer of the Year award. Industry experience during your degree Industry experience is a key part of the Bachelor of Communication Studies. As part of your studies you can work on live projects for real clients, or complete work experience or internships for major industry organisations. Journalism students, for example, get a taste of different media outlets through the internships that are part of their degree. Similarly, public relations students can work on a project for a not-for-profit client through our public relations agency Outside the Square. Strong support from industry partners We receive strong support from industry organisations and professional bodies like PRINZ (Public Relations Institute of New Zealand) and CAANZ (Communication Agencies Association of New Zealand). Our industry partners advise on current best practice, helps us draft and assess industry briefs, and consider proposed programme changes all to ensure that our graduates are work-ready when they leave AUT. Passionate and experienced staff Our experienced lecturers are passionate about their subjects and draw on their own experience to inform their teaching. AUT communications staff know the media landscape like the backs of their hands. They have great contacts and their research keeps them up-to-date and relevant. 04

7 Our state-of-the-art screen and television studio 2 Students can hone their skills in our media centre 3 Static FM, AUT s student radio station 4 Inside the WG building, home of our communications programmes Outstanding facilities and services As a communications student, you will be based in AUT s state-of-the-art Sir Paul Reeves Building (WG) on the City Campus. Using the very latest in design and technology, our space includes a screen and television studio, motion capture and chroma key studio, performance studio, radio station, sound and edit suites, digital media computer labs, and media centre, all under one highly modern roof. We re proud of our industry standard facilities, for example, the Television and Screen Production major has arguably the best TV studio facilities in New Zealand. International study opportunities A student exchange is an amazing opportunity to study overseas at one of our partner universities. Exchange programmes are generally for a semester, and students who have been on an exchange often find it changes their lives, both professionally and personally. As a communications student you could study at a number of renowned institutions: Cardiff University, Wales Danish School of Journalism, Denmark Hanze University, Netherlands Leeds Beckett University, England Malmö University, Sweden Missouri School of Journalism, USA Queen Margaret University, Scotland Ryerson University, Canada Salzburg University of Applied Sciences, Austria SUNY Oswego, USA Tec de Monterrey, Mexico. 05

8 UNDERGRADUATE Bachelor of Communication Studies Overview BACHELOR OF COMMUNICATION STUDIES BCS Code Level of study 7 AK3303 Points 360 Duration Venue 3 years full-time only City Campus Start date 29 February 2016 Minimum entry requirements Selection criteria Preferred school subjects University Entrance (NCEA, CIE or IB) or equivalent Preferred entry: Preference will be given to applicants who have completed Year 13 with: NCEA: A rank score of 180 or higher, with 14 credits in each of two subjects from Classical Studies, Drama, English, Geography, Health Education, History, History of Art, Media Studies, Social Studies. CIE: A rank score of 150 or higher including a minimum AS level grade of C in at least one of the subjects listed above, or equivalent. IB: A minimum of 28 points including a minimum grade 5 in one of the subjects listed above, or equivalent. Other documentation may be requested. Applicants who do not meet the preferred selection criteria above will be considered on a caseby-case basis where places are available Language rich subjects are useful (refer to the University Entrance section in the back of this publication) AUT encourages early application. There are limited places available. Late applications will be accepted if the programme is not full. AUT s communication studies degree is very well regarded by industry. That s because our people pick up top jobs in the best companies and media outlets and they win awards, lots of awards. Our students and graduates are internationally recognised, having won the Sally Logan-Milne Young Practitioner of the Year award, CAANZ AXIS award, ORCA awards, Cannes International Advertising award and NZ Student Marketer of the Year award. Majors Advertising Creativity Creative Industries Digital Media Journalism Public Relations Radio Television and Screen Production All students complete a major you can either choose a single major, or a major plus a minor. A major consists of a minimum of 90 points and a minor of 60 points. What this qualification covers Year 1 You ll be introduced to the media world and essential communication theories and practice. This year you take seven papers (including one paper worth 30 points). There are five core papers. Year 2 This year you ll be involved in more practical work in up to three communication disciplines, while continuing to study critical theory. This keeps your options open for your major and minor, which start this year. We recommend you choose two prerequisite papers each for three majors. Entry into some majors is competitive. Year 3 This year focuses on the theory and practice of your major. If you began a minor in Year 2, you complete this alongside your major. You may also be able to complete an industry project as part of Year 3. Conjoint and double programmes Today, standing out from the crowd is more important than ever. A conjoint programme of study doubles your knowledge and opportunities, but it doesn t take double 06

9 the time to complete. You study two degrees at the same time in a single programme of study and complete both degrees in a shorter time than it would take to complete them separately. It s usually possible to complete two three-year degrees in four to five years. You need to maintain a B grade average across all papers to remain in the programme of study and you need to do papers from each degree every year. A double degree is another great way to make your CV stand out. The difference between a double degree and a conjoint is that in the double degree you enrol separately in each of the two degrees. You can crosscredit papers from one degree to the other, which means you need to do fewer papers. Double degrees usually take longer than conjoint programmes but there are some advantages: a greater range of programmes to choose from, no minimum grade average each year and no rules about having to take papers from each qualification each year. Your study options include: Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Communication Studies conjoint programme Bachelor of Communication Studies and Bachelor of Laws double degree To find out more visit Course planner The Bachelor of Communication Studies consists of three years of full-time study. You complete 120 points per year. YEAR SEMESTER 1 SEMESTER 2 1 Five core level 5 papers (90 points total) Interpersonal Communication (15 pts) Media Communication I (15 pts) Image and Sound (15 pts) Media Production Workshop (30 pts) Applied Media Ethics (15 pts) PLUS 2 option papers (30 pts total) NB: if you plan to complete the Journalism major, your Year 1 option papers must include Principles of Journalism 2 Media Communication II (core paper 15 pts) Intercultural Communication (core paper 15 pts) Major 1 level 6 paper (15 pts) Major 1 level 6 paper (15 pts) Major 2 level 6 paper (15 pts) Major 2 level 6 paper (15 pts) Major 3 level 6 paper (15 pts) Major 3 level 6 paper (15 pts) 3 * Media Communication III (core paper 15 pts) Compulsory major paper (15 pts) Compulsory major paper (15 pts) Compulsory major paper (15 pts) Compulsory major paper (15 pts) Option paper (15 pts) Option level 7 minor paper (15 pts) Option or level 7 minor paper (15 pts) * Your paper choices in Year 3 vary depending on your choice of major and whether you are also completing a minor. You can structure Year 3 as follows: Media Communication III plus 105 points from papers within your major (compulsory and options); or Media Communication III plus 60 points from papers within your major (compulsory), plus 45 points made up of option papers, papers to complete a minor or additional papers from your major. For more detailed information visit 07

10 UNDERGRADUATE SEE YOURSELF AS: Bachelor of Communication Studies Advertising Creativity A strong writer or visual communicator, with a vivid imagination A boundary breaker, a trend spotter Inquisitive and cheeky Hard-working and committed Technology is changing the way we communicate with each other. But technology will only do what you tell it to do. That s why design, writing, and storytelling are at the heart of advertising creativity. It s all about thinking laterally and developing effective creative communications for brand and product campaigns. We start with a great idea and then choose how to combine and use various media. AUT is the only New Zealand university that teaches advertising creativity specifically and at degree level. At other universities you touch on it only as part of studying graphic design, marketing or business studies. Through the degree you develop a portfolio of professional work you can use to apply for work as a copywriter or art director in an ad agency. If you decide you d rather work in account service, account planning or media in an ad agency, the Advertising Creativity major equips you to do that too. Guest speakers from client companies and leading advertising agencies such as TVNZ, Spark, New Zealand Post, MediaWorks, Saatchi & Saatchi, DDB, Colenso BBDO, FCB New Zealand and Film Construction feature throughout the year. KEY FEATURES: The only NZ university degree in advertising creativity Recognised by the international Design and Art Direction (D&AD) University Network Fully supported by CAANZ (Communication Agencies Association of New Zealand) What this major covers You work in the media centre collaborating with your classmates on live briefs, and writing and designing real ads for real products and clients. Clients and agencies brief students directly both at AUT and at their own premises. There is often the opportunity for student work to be published in the media. Many of our students are also offered work experience in a leading advertising agency. As well as ideation, art direction and copywriting across print, radio, outdoor, television, interactive and web, you also develop creative problem-solving skills and the ability to think laterally and communicate information in a compelling and effective way. Year 1 The first year of the Bachelor of Communication Studies is common to all majors. A list of core papers can be found on the overview page. Year 2 Advertising Creativity papers: Advertising Creativity Visual Communication Year 3 Advertising Creativity papers: Advertising Art Direction (compulsory) Applied Creative Strategies Campaigns Copywriting (compulsory) Creative Principles and Strategy (compulsory) Career opportunities Account director Account planner Art director Copywriter Digital creative Digital strategist Media buyer/planner Strategic planner Web content creator For more details visit 08

11 Lennie Galloway Copywriter Intern, FCB New Zealand Bachelor of Communication Studies in Advertising Creativity Lennie Galloway s advertising career may have only just started but she already has an impressive collection of awards. No small feat for someone who only graduated at the end of last year. One of the things I m most proud of is winning the NZ Young Lions Film Competition together with my creative partner and fellow FCB intern Thomas Gledhill. The best part was being told by Parkinson s New Zealand that the ad captured their cause perfectly. The prize, a trip to the Cannes Festival of Creativity to compete on an international level, wasn t too bad either. This win is the latest in Lennie s growing collection of awards. Last year I picked up two second prizes at the NewsWorks Student Newspaper Ad Awards and, along with Thomas, received the TVNZ award for Creative Team of the Year, I m proud of the hard work these awards represent. Changing careers Before coming to AUT, Lennie worked as a prop and set designer but realised she wanted to be the one coming up with the ideas, not just being told what to make. AUT s advertising creativity degree ticked all the boxes. AUT stood out because of its strong connections to the industry, great tutors and good track record for getting graduates placements and jobs. Prepared for life as a creative Being able to work to tight deadlines is one of the key skills Lennie learned at AUT. That s so important in this industry! I also learned to accept that good ideas don t just fall into your lap you have to put in the effort. Internship at FCB After completing her degree, Lennie is now a copywriter intern at FCB New Zealand. I came here for a two-week placement in my final year. A couple of months later, I was offered a month of work experience which turned into an ongoing internship. My job involves writing scripts for Air NZ retail ads, writing print and radio ads for Vodafone, creating Facebook content for the HPA s Not Beersies campaign and coming up with ideas. 09

12 UNDERGRADUATE SEE YOURSELF AS: Bachelor of Communication Studies Creative Industries Drawn to creative work and people Able to lead a creative team Highly organised and aware of the creative environment and opportunities The creative industries have always been culturally important, and today they are crucial to national development. New Zealand needs skilled people who can drive the delivery of creative ideas from the drawing board to the marketplace. AUT s Creative Industries major focuses on management in the creative sector, cultural policy and its place in everyday life, and working with teams on the production of cultural goods and services. Because this is still a fairly new area, full of rich opportunities for research, we encourage our students to continue into postgraduate study. KEY FEATURES: Opportunity to manage an industry-based creative project Can lead to diverse roles in museums, galleries, performing arts management or the cultural aspects of city development What this major covers The papers in this major develop your understanding of work relationships in creative organisations, and the key issues faced by the creative sector in New Zealand and overseas. There is a strong focus on the behavioural side of management, the skills and art of project management, and the dynamic area of cultural policy analysis. To prepare you for a wide range of career opportunities, we cover examples from every part of the creative sector. Year 2 Creative Industries papers: Contextualising Creative Industries Organising Creative Work Year 3 Creative Industries papers: Cultural Policy Analysis Organising Creative People Creative Industries Practice (students can find and manage an industry-based creative project). You then choose another 15 points from Creative Organisations and Social Identity or any other approved Year 3 Creative Industries paper. Career opportunities Cultural policy analysis Manager in theatre production, publishing, online design or marketing Project management within the creative industries For more details visit Year 1 The first year of the Bachelor of Communication Studies is common to all majors. A list of core papers can be found on the overview page. 10

13 Employer comment The skills students learn at university give them a solid foundation to build their career on. Hayley brought with her a mix of theoretical understanding and the ability to apply her knowledge on the job. Personal development in this way, combined with frequently challenging boundaries, benefits both the organisation and industry as a whole. Matt Scott, General Manager Digital Direct, FCB New Zealand Hayley Morrison Account Executive, FCB New Zealand Bachelor of Communication Studies in Creative Industries The practical industry involvement is what sets AUT s communications degree apart, says Hayley Morrison who graduated with a Bachelor of Communication Studies in Creative Industries. I did a lot of research before I decided where to study, and AUT s communications degree definitely stood out. You know that you leave with a qualification that is well respected by the communications industry, and get practical industry experience before you even graduate, says Hayley. I loved that the Creative Industries major can lead to such diverse career opportunities from advisory roles in museums, galleries or the cultural aspects of city development to opportunities in performing arts management or graduate roles in an advertising or architecture firm. Close links with the creative industries Hayley always wanted to work in the creative sector, and says AUT s Creative Industries major sets you up extremely well for careers in this field. Much of the teaching content is based around case studies involving real-life organisations in the creative sector. My internship with amateur theatre company Howick Little Theatre in my final year was an invaluable experience too. I could see for myself how an organisation in the creative sector operates. Support to help with your studies AUT offers plenty of support to help students succeed in their studies, Hayley says. The lecturers are always there to help you with any queries and concerns you may have. This is important, especially during the busy patches of semester. I also highly recommend the assistance of the Student Learning Centre and Library. I m really proud of the excellent grades I received throughout my studies, and I m sure all the support that is available helped with that. A career in advertising After graduating from AUT, Hayley is excited by what the future holds. Right after finishing my degree I started working as an account executive at advertising agency FCB New Zealand. I really enjoy the fast-paced and changing nature of the advertising industry. I m excited by the opportunities that are out there, Hayley says. 11

14 UNDERGRADUATE SEE YOURSELF AS: Bachelor of Communication Studies Digital Media Always connected An early adopter An innovative storyteller A digital native Visual Interested in the bigger picture of media trends and technological developments? Our Digital Media major opens up careers in visual communication, animation, moving image, digital video, digital visual effects, web and interactive media production, interface design and learning communication. As a digital media student, you operate at the interface of media communication and technology, learning how to make digital work communicate effectively, look great, sound great and tell a great story. You learn to recognise new creative markets as they emerge, manage teams and projects and design new workflows. You manage media projects, and learn how to deliver your work via mobile devices, broadcast media or broadband communication, from the smallest to the largest screens, on time and on budget. KEY FEATURES: Includes a substantial digital media project for a real client A mix of technical and creative skills Covers skills needed in all areas of communications What this major covers Year 1 The first year of the Bachelor of Communication Studies is common to all majors. A list of core papers can be found on the overview page. Year 2 Digital Media papers: Visual Communication (compulsory) Moving Image Production I Interactive Media Production I Year 3 Digital Media papers: Digital Media Project (compulsory) 3D Modelling and Animation I 3D Modelling and Animation II Advanced Digital Video Digital Audio Production Digital Media Praxis Interactive Media Production II Moving Image Production II Web Media Production I Web Media Production II Career opportunities 2D/3D animator or compositor Digital media project manager, producer or consultant Digital video specialist Instructional media designer Interactive media producer or consultant Mobile content developer Motion graphics designer Post-production special effects designer Production assistant Visual designer for print and online media Web administrator/designer For more details visit 12

15 Employer comment Chris showed aptitude in both communications and digital product design. He was also able to show impressive extra-curricular experience, including lecturing and commercial project experience. In our experience, Bachelor of Communication Studies graduates are extremely capable, curious and engaged. Chris was a high achiever but he demonstrated a desire to stretch into new areas of digital user experience design, strategy and delivery. This thirst for knowledge is vital to keep pace with digital change. Stephanie Creasy, Strategy Director, Digital Arts Network Christopher Lloyd User Experience Designer, Digital Arts Network Bachelor of Communication Studies in Digital Media Bachelor of Communication Studies (Honours) Digital media is at the heart of so many aspects of modern communication, says AUT communication studies graduate Christopher (Chris) Lloyd. Digital media complements so many other areas of communications. It encompasses everything from developing websites, film and moving image sequences, to interactive media. If communication is about telling stories, digital media is the contemporary platform to tell these stories. User-centric approach Now working as a user experience designer at the Digital Arts Network, Chris enjoys being able to make a difference to people s lives. My role is about crafting great digital experiences for customers, taking a user-centric approach to solution building. Tasks include facilitating usability testing, design workshops and stakeholder engagement through the presentation of findings and strategic recommendations. It s amazing what a big difference a small functional change can make to the user experience. For example, when you create a portal to access an online service it needs to be easy for people to sign up, otherwise they won t use it. In his work, Chris draws on what he learned at AUT every day. My degree gave me a broad range of skills which I use on a daily basis, including implementing code, telling visual narratives and understanding how content is used digitally. In this role, you need skills in information architecture, research and analytics, content strategy, heuristics, front-end code and interaction design. Real-world projects The opportunity to work on real-world projects was one of the highlights of his time at AUT. In the Year 3 Digital Media Project, for example, we worked on a project for a client. Our group created a short documentary, called Dominion Road Stories, for the Auckland Theatre Company, Chris says. He also appreciated the calibre of the teaching staff, who are often working on real projects themselves and then share their learnings with students. Discovering his passion While he knows he has found his passion, Chris didn t initially plan to study the Digital Media major when he came to AUT. I originally wanted to do TV, but the more I was exploring digital media the more I loved it. 13

16 UNDERGRADUATE SEE YOURSELF AS: Bachelor of Communication Studies Journalism A truth seeker Inquisitive A hunter of stories Investigative and curious Today s rapidly changing news media environment means we need journalists who know how to find, write and produce news using multimedia technologies, and who have a solid grounding in broad communication theory. Through the Journalism major, you learn to write, illustrate and edit stories for professional news organisations, often beating the professionals to breaking stories for publications. You gain experience in news reporting, different writing and production specialisations, bicultural reporting, cross-cultural reporting, news photography, media law and ethics. You learn on the job, and will be encouraged to extend your skills with live reporting exercises. The core papers cover news gathering, news and feature writing, and court and local government reporting. You also learn how to take notes in shorthand. Elective papers include Radio Journalism, Television Journalism, Magazine Journalism, Photo Journalism, Editing and Design, Data Journalism, Māori & Pacific Media Industries, and Reporting the Pacific Region. KEY FEATURES: Includes real experience in different news outlets Experience running a newsroom Write, sub-edit and design stories for our awardwinning Te Waha Nui newspaper, Pacific Scoop, Pacific Media Watch or the Pacific Media Centre Year 2 and 3 In your second and third year you have many opportunities to contribute to the real world of news. This includes filing stories for different news outlets, experience of daily news journalism in our specialist media centre under the guidance of a media professional, and a two-week internship in a newsroom anywhere around the country. Editors know our students produce publishable work and strongly support our programme. Compulsory Journalism papers: Principles of Journalism News Reporting Principles of Broadcast Journalism Advanced News Reporting Journalism Law and Ethics Public Affairs Reporting News Desk Assignment Career opportunities News reporter for newspapers, magazines, television, radio or online media Freelance journalist Specialist writer Production journalist Web editor For more details visit What this major covers Year 1 The first year of the Bachelor of Communication Studies is common to all majors. A list of core papers can be found on the overview page. If you want to study the Journalism prerequisite papers in Year 2, you must first successfully complete Principles of Journalism in Year 1. 14

17 Employer comment We were looking for someone with a positive attitude, who has strong attention to detail and a passion for news. Sam was employed because he shows promise, is a hard worker and has a great attitude in the newsroom. Sam s communications degree is a great asset for his role, as the practical side of the course gives you a great platform in understanding the professional world and prepares you for your career after university. Nick Baker, Senior Assignments Desk Co-ordinator, TVNZ Samuel Clarke Ngāpuhi Assignments Desk Co-ordinator, TVNZ Bachelor of Communication Studies in Journalism The amount of practical experience you get through AUT s journalism degree is the perfect preparation for the job, says Samuel Clarke who now works as assignments desk co-ordinator at TVNZ. I had always dreamt of being part of a major news organisation. The AUT work placements were invaluable they gave me the practical skills that pure theory can t teach. Even the ways that we studied ran parallel with industry standards. Samuel loves seeing the daily news bulletins go live on TV and knowing he had a role in producing them. That is hugely rewarding! My job is a mix of responsibilities from around the news room administration, research and producing. All of them help me play an active role in producing the daily news. The catalyst for journalism careers A career in journalism had always been Samuel s goal, and he talked to a number of industry professionals before choosing where to study. They all said the AUT degree was a great way to launch myself into the industry. He says the tight-knit and collaborative learning community makes the AUT degree unique. I don t know any other degree where there is such a close bond between those who go through it together. Communications by its very nature attracts some of the most exciting and interesting people I ve ever met. Working in tandem with them is something that forges friendships and memories that are as valuable as the skills you develop. Making industry contacts During his studies Samuel had many opportunities to gain real journalism experience, including spending two weeks in a regional newspaper and one week as a local radio journalist. Through AUT I met contacts from a number of industries, and the degree even helped me land a position at TVNZ during my last year of study. AUT offered me a chance to not only get experience at practically any publication of my choosing but helped me line up future job prospects. The skills I learned at AUT translate into my work every single day. The writing and research skills as well as the firm understanding of the fundamentals of current affairs are essential for my work. 15

18 UNDERGRADUATE SEE YOURSELF AS: Bachelor of Communication Studies Public Relations A people-person Strategic thinker Builder of reputations and relationships Good writer, speaker and organiser Public relations is about strategically planning and managing communication activities, building relationships and managing reputations. PR professionals work for a range of organisations, from governments to small businesses, and multinationals to non-profit organisations. An effective public relations practitioner needs a wide knowledge of communication, knows how the media works, understands strategy, is culturally sensitive and has a range of writing, visual and audio skills. In this major you develop an understanding of reputation management and learn to make ethical judgments about strategic communication and communication planning. You gain an in-depth understanding of public relations writing, communication in a business environment, sponsorship and promotion, internal communication, persuasion, social media and communicating with diverse audiences. KEY FEATURES: Supported by the Public Relations Institute of New Zealand (PRINZ) and leading public relations consultancies Gain experience in our student-run PR consultancy, Outside the Square (OTS) Includes an industry-based project for a real client What this major covers Year 1 The first year of the Bachelor of Communication Studies is common to all majors refer to the overview page. This will help you develop the wide knowledge base you need to be an effective public relations practitioner. Because we like our students to have wide-ranging knowledge and interests, we encourage you to choose the remaining two papers from across AUT. Year 2 In the first semester, you ll be introduced to current theories, models, and concepts of public relations as well as real-life examples. In the second semester, you ll be introduced to a range of PR writing styles. Compulsory papers: Public Relations Communication Writing for Professionals Year 3 All students take the Reputation Management paper. You learn about managing reputations, crises and issues, as well as building and managing relationships between organisations and publics. You can then choose whether you want to learn more about internal communication, persuasion or creating content for multimedia platforms. A key component of this major is learning how to plan and execute communication strategies through real-life industry collaboration. Through Outside the Square (OTS), our student-run consultancy, you work in teams to interpret a client brief, develop a communication strategy and implement the plan on time and on budget. Your responsibilities range from managing communication activities, producing appropriate print and web-based publications, carrying out media relations and liaising with the client. There is input from the industry s professional body, the Public Relations Institute of New Zealand (PRINZ) and public relations consultancies including Porter Novelli, Acumen Republic, Botica Butler Raudon PR, Mango, Network Communication, Professional Public Relations, and Sparkactivate. Throughout the year you can also apply for internships and gain work experience, although this is not a requirement of the programme. Career opportunities Corporate communication executive Public relations consultant Marketing communication executive Government communicator Internal communications advisor Media relations manager Community relations manager Social media manager The major also leads directly into postgraduate study. For more details visit 16

19 Employer comment Kaya was the inaugural recipient of Porter Novelli s Joseph Peart Scholarship. Kaya was the stand-out candidate and made herself invaluable to us during that period. So much so that I had many consultants asking me to hire her just a month into her internship! So we did just that. She has all the right skills and that all important great attitude. She s also a really nice person and fits with our collaborative and fun culture with ease. Her AUT training and education prepared her exceptionally well for her first steps into communications consulting. Strahan Wallis, Managing Director, Porter Novelli Kaya Arai Senior Account Executive, Porter Novelli Bachelor of Communication Studies in Public Relations No two days are the same for public relations senior account executive Kaya Arai, and that s one of the things she enjoys most about her job. Since graduating with a communications degree Kaya has been working at Porter Novelli, a role she was offered after working there as part of the Joseph Peart Porter Novelli Scholarship she was awarded at the end of her degree studies. I m pretty lucky that I got to stay and I m glad it worked out this way. The perfect first PR job For Kaya, working in a consultancy with a wide range of clients is the perfect first job after university. For someone just starting out in PR, it s a great way to get a taste of everything you could branch out into in the future. No two days are the same, and deadlines are constantly being juggled as many projects are happening at once. This pressure is what makes it fun, especially when working with such a fun, supportive and encouraging team. I enjoy working on diverse client accounts from technology and fast moving consumer goods (FMCG), to finance and health. In one day I could be researching and costing up a client event, media monitoring for clients, pitching stories to media, organising photo opportunities and interviews, launching a new product or attending a client event, and that s to name a few! Real experience before graduation Kaya says that AUT prepared her well for the working world, not only through her degree studies but with the real-world placements she undertook. AUT gave me the foundation I needed to go into the workforce. As well as teaching me what I needed to know, they helped make the transition from study to work a lot less daunting by getting students to experience it before they graduated. Keeping a balance Throughout her studies Kaya tried to keep a balance between her academic life and her personal life. I would tell future students to enjoy your time being a student and have fun. Study hard when you need to but also enjoy time with your friends. Work hard and play hard but keep your goals in sight. 17

20 UNDERGRADUATE SEE YOURSELF AS: Bachelor of Communication Studies Radio A creative thought starter Capable of thinking on your feet Interested in people, popular culture and current events Keen to communicate through radio Radio is a fast-paced, dynamic medium that has the power of immediacy. It s often the first medium to break the news and it s a primary source of entertainment and information. Radio is also at the forefront of popular culture delivering music, opinion and information to ever more savvy and demanding audiences. The internet has only extended radio s reach and influence, as radio stations have now developed sophisticated online presences that offer audiences numerous exciting ways to interact with them. These new opportunities create many new ways for radio to reach and interact with audiences hungry for music, news, information and entertainment. The Radio major places equal emphasis on creativity, performance skills, theory, radio station operations and management, and the critical thinking needed to place those skills within the broader context of the medium. You have many practical opportunities to work in FM and online broadcasting, and will plan, create and deliver content that engages your audiences. You also interact with top industry representatives from organisations such as Radio New Zealand, RadioWorks, The Radio Network and The Radio Bureau. KEY FEATURES: NZ s only university degree in radio Access to our state-of-the-art radio and audio studios Real experience in our student radio station, Static 88.1 FM What this major covers Year 1 The first year of the Bachelor of Communication Studies is common to all majors. A list of core papers can be found on the overview page. Year 2 and 3 You get to know the business of radio and how both public and private broadcasters operate behind the scenes. You ll be engaged in a range of professional tasks: announcing, writing and selling commercials, writing features, recording and producing items for broadcast, researching and presenting documentaries, compiling and presenting news and organising station and client promotions. During these years you run an FM and online radio station with other radio students. You ll be on-air and involved with the day-to-day management of the station. This involves creating the format, managing the playlists, selling advertising, writing features and commercials, promoting and marketing the station and its clients and learning how to work as a team in a fast paced and highly creative media enterprise. Check out our student radio station, Static 88.1 FM, visit or search the TuneIn Radio app. Compulsory papers: Radio Production I Radio Production II Applied Radio Techniques Research Project Radio Radio Performance Career opportunities Announcer Copywriter Account executive Media planner Music director Music programmer Producer Production engineer Programme director Promotions manager Radio journalist Record company representative Station manager Studio engineer Website content manager For more details visit 18

21 Employer comment I chose Rebekah for her high energy and positive attitude. Her references had only great things to say about her and the fact that she had worked part-time for The Sound showed me that she would be mature enough to take on a brand like The Breeze. Throughout her degree, Rebekah had worked on assignments both as an individual and in a team. You have to have the ability to do both in radio. She also knew the basics of how to run a radio desk which helped when she had to record crosses and traffic. Joel Skulander, Marketing and Promotions Manager, Mediaworks Waikato Rebekah Dewhurst National Promotions Co-ordinator, The Breeze, Mediaworks Bachelor of Communication Studies in Radio Radio graduate Rebekah Dewhurst knows just how far genuine passion can take you. After working just a year in the radio industry she has secured a national role and is loving every minute of it. Moving on up After graduating from AUT, Rebekah was Waikato brand manager for radio stations The Breeze, The Sound and Mai FM, which involved promotional work, marketing, managing a promotions team, interacting with listeners and clients and stints on air. She recently moved to Auckland to start work as The Breeze national promotions co-ordinator. In radio no two days are the same. Radio is such a fast-paced industry to work in it certainly keeps you on your toes. You never know what you are going to get and I love that! Top facilities Taking a positive approach to life is nothing new for Rebekah, who approached her studies with the same attitude. I put my heart and soul into every aspect of my degree and am very proud at what I accomplished. One of my highlights was getting a part-time job at The Sound thanks to my AUT lecturers. It s a big part of why I am where I am today. Rebekah says another advantage was AUT s new Sir Paul Reeves building, which offers excellent facilities for communications students. We had brand new radio studios to work in as well as new Mac computers which made the editing software a lot easier to use. It was a great environment to study in and I actually liked staying extra hours because of that. Give it your all Rebekah s advice to others is to make the most of their time at university. Fall in love with your degree. Give it your all because you re only there for a short time. I questioned myself so much throughout my degree but now I ve stepped into a national role! It may get a little tough at times, but you soon realise that while you were sticking it out you actually had the time of your life. 19

22 UNDERGRADUATE SEE YOURSELF AS: Bachelor of Communication Studies Television and Screen Production A thought starter Creative Well organised A self-starter Logical Creating exciting and innovative screen productions that tell a good story is at the heart of this major. It focuses on both creative and professional skills, and is a great starting point if you have serious aspirations to work in the broadcasting, independent production and corporate sectors of the screen industry. The emphasis is on practical skills for professional multi-camera and digital video production. Throughout your studies you develop the practical knowledge to produce programmes suitable for large, medium or small screens. Our graduates are well-known for their skills in pre-production, production and post-production roles within television and screen production. They are also able to manage, organise and collaborate within production teams. KEY FEATURES: Access to one of the best TV studio facilities in New Zealand and the latest digital field equipment Includes a major practical project in Year 3 What this major covers Year 1 The first year of the Bachelor of Communication Studies is common to all majors. A list of core papers can be found on the overview page. Screen Narrative Production is an optional paper that explores the use of cameras, sound and editing in creative storytelling. Year 2 and 3 The Television and Screen Production major starts in Year 2 with the core papers Studio Production and Screen Production: Non-Fiction. These papers introduce you to the theory and practice of basic multi-camera and single camera productions. Screen Production Practice is an optional paper for those interested in furthering their skills in storytelling. Papers in Year 3 provide you with the theoretical and practical skills to achieve professional industry standards. You work towards creating a major practical project. Using the latest digital technology, you are responsible for producing or directing a major production. You learn to work in teams by assisting each other with presentation, production management, interviewing, camera operation and sound recording. Papers include: Creative Screen Practice (compulsory) Creative Screen Project (compulsory) Screenwriting: Drama Screenwriting: Non-Fiction Advanced Studio Production Writing for the Studio Screen Production Management Broadcast Interviews & Production Career opportunities Camera operator Director Producer Production editor Production manager Promotions manager Reporter Researcher Television presenter Television programmer Writer For more details visit 20