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University of Technology Sydney

Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication Online

  • Delivery: Online
  • Study Level: Postgraduate
  • Duration: 8 months
  • Course Type: Graduate Certificate

Develop skills in communication strategy, stakeholder engagement and intercultural and emerging communication practices.

Course overview

The Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication is designed for professionals looking to develop or extend their skills in strategic communication. The course examines how communication theory and contemporary practice can be used to support organisational goals, engage audiences and respond to changing communication environments.

You will explore communication in society, intercultural and international communication, emerging communication practices and stakeholder engagement. The course develops skills in creating and evaluating communication strategies, communicating across different cultural and professional contexts and using written, verbal and digital channels to engage audiences.

The course comprises four core subjects totalling 24 credit points and is completed entirely online over a minimum of eight months. Graduates may also use the qualification as a pathway into the Master of Strategic Communication, requiring a further eight subjects to complete the Master's degree.

Key facts

Delivery
Online
Course Type
Graduate Certificate
Duration
8 months (Part time)
Price Per Unit
From $4,559
More Information
Indicative fee per subject.
Intake
1st January, 2027
1st March, 2027
1st May, 2027
1st July, 2027
1st September, 2027
1st October, 2027
Units
More Information
You may be required to complete 0 credit point units throughout your course. The university will confirm this as part of your enrolment.

The unit total reflects the number of units required for course completion, not the total credit point weight. Some units may be double- or triple-weighted, so the number of units you complete may be lower.
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Fees
More Information
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.
FEE-HELP

What you will study

The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication comprises four online subjects (24 credit points in total).

Core subjects

Complete the following subjects:

  • Understanding Communication in Society
  • Intercultural and International Communication
  • Emergent Communication Practices
  • Driving Stakeholder Engagement

Entry requirements

Applicants must have one of the following:

  • Completed an Australian bachelor's degree or higher qualification, or overseas equivalent, in any field of study.
  • Completed an Australian advanced diploma or associate degree, or overseas equivalent, and a minimum of two years full-time, or equivalent part-time, relevant post-secondary professional work experience.
  • A minimum of four years full-time, or equivalent part-time, relevant post-secondary professional work experience and a general capacity to undertake tertiary education.

Relevant professional work experience refers to any professional work experience in which an applicant has developed skills, knowledge and competencies directly related to supporting strategic communication activities. This includes roles such as managers, professionals, technicians, community, personal service, clerical, administrative or sales workers across various industries.

Supporting documentation to be submitted with the application

For applicants who need to demonstrate professional work experience:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a Statement of Service provided by the employer.
  • A completed UTS Statement of Service signed by the employer.
  • A statutory declaration confirming professional work experience, for Australian residents only.
  • An official letter from the applicant's accountant or solicitor on company letterhead confirming the applicant's professional work experience or engagement with the business, duration of operations and nature of the business.
  • A business certificate of registration in the original language and English, such as ASIC documentation, an ABN or similar documentation for Australian businesses.

Eligibility for admission does not guarantee an offer of a place.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Your previous studies or employment experience can be acknowledged as credit towards your online postgraduate studies, provided that it meets the relevant course requirements.

If you receive a UTS offer of enrolment and you’ve undertaken previous studies at another institution, you may be eligible to apply for recognition of prior learning. UTS doesn’t determine recognition of prior learning until an offer of enrolment is accepted.

Outcomes

Learning outcomes

  • Apply theoretical and technical knowledge to create and evaluate communication strategies that address contemporary organisational challenges. Use multi-platform approaches to enhance audience engagement and brand reputation.
  • Recognise and navigate diverse cultural, social and professional communication environments. Develop strategies that foster inclusivity, equity and ethical engagement with global and Indigenous communities.
  • Critically analyse communication models and synthesise complex information across various media channels. Use strategic thinking and creativity to craft messaging that resonates with diverse audiences.
  • Refine your ability to communicate clearly and persuasively across written, verbal and digital formats. Build relationships with key stakeholders through ethical, impactful and audience-centred communication.

Career outcomes

The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication provides foundational knowledge and skills for professionals looking to advance or transition into strategic communication roles. This course prepares you to craft and deliver effective communication strategies.

Upon completion, graduates can pursue roles such as:

  • Communication officer
  • Public relations coordinator
  • Digital content strategist
  • Corporate communications assistant

Fees and FEE-HELP

Indicative tuition fee per subject in 2026: $4,559 (domestic full-fee paying place)

Indicative total tuition fee in 2026: $18,236 (domestic full-fee paying place)

All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of 24 credit points (normally four subjects) per semester or year.

Student fees may vary in accordance with:

  • The number of subjects studied per term.
  • The choice of major or specialisation.
  • Choice of subjects.
  • Credit from previous study or work experience.
  • Eligibility for government-funded loans.

You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.

Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.

FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.


Who You Will Learn From

Dr Andrew McCowan

Dr Andrew McCowan

Course Director, Master of Strategic Communication

With an increasing number of jobs in business, government and the community/charity sectors all requiring skills in managing and implementing communication activities, we have created a program that introduces people to the skills and knowledge they will need to deliver strategic communication activities as their career progresses. This Graduate Certificate program gives students a different learning experience and helps to prepare them to thrive in the communication environment now and into the future.

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Student Testimonials

Audrey B.

Audrey B.

I thought completing one subject at a time would be much easier for me to juggle with my work. Everything was in one place. The broad coverage of what I studied has been really helpful, because I’m opening my progression up to those new paths.

Ben G.

Ben G.

I continued some friendships with fellow students and also continued the relationship with UTS.