The Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Media and Communication is an interdisciplinary double degree that prepares graduates to understand, analyse, and communicate the complex social, political, economic, and environmental challenges facing communities in Australia and around the world. Development Studies examines issues such as poverty, inequality, sustainability, human rights, and international aid, drawing on disciplines including economics, political science, anthropology, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander studies, and international relations. Media and Communication equips students with the theory and practical skills to produce, analyse, and strategically distribute content across print, digital, broadcast, and social media platforms. Together, the two degrees create a powerful combination: graduates can both understand global development challenges and communicate them effectively to diverse audiences. The combined degree typically takes five years of full-time study and is structured so that students complete the core requirements of both qualifications, often with shared or complementary electives that allow for deep specialisation. Students may choose majors such as international development, sustainable development, Indigenous affairs, journalism, strategic communication, digital media, or public relations. The degree is unique in Australia for integrating development theory with real-world communication practice, making graduates highly versatile. Employers who hire these graduates span a wide range of sectors, including the federal Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), NGOs and not-for-profit organisations, international aid agencies like UN bodies and World Vision, state and federal government departments, consulting firms, community organisations, and media outlets. The combination of analytical depth and communication skill makes graduates equally competitive in the social impact sector and the media industry.

For domestic students, entry into this double degree program typically requires successful completion of Year 12 (or equivalent senior secondary qualification such as the Higher School Certificate in NSW or the Victorian Certificate of Education). Most Australian providers require an ATAR in the range of 70–85, though competitive programs may have higher cut-offs depending on demand. Some providers offer guaranteed entry to students who meet minimum prerequisites in relevant senior subjects such as English, Modern History, Economics, Society and Culture, or Legal Studies. Applicants who have completed prior study at TAFE or another university, or who have relevant work experience in community development, journalism, media, or the NGO sector, may be considered through alternative pathways. Mature-age and non-school-leaver applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis, and some institutions offer bridging or enabling programs for those who do not meet standard entry criteria. For international students, an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no individual band below 6.0) is typically required, or an equivalent score in TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Some programs may require a personal statement, written statement of interest, or short interview as part of the admissions process, particularly for students applying through non-standard pathways. Entry into the Media and Communication component may involve submission of a writing portfolio or evidence of prior creative or journalistic work at some institutions, although this is not universally required.