Course Overview

About This Course

The Master of Public Relations and Advertising is a hands-on, two-year postgraduate program that will prepare you for a new chapter in this vibrant, fast-paced industry. It balances academic theory with practical industry experience, making it ideal for PR and advertising professionals looking to take their next step, as well as career-changers moving into a new profession. Over two years of full-time study, you'll learn how to inform, persuade and promote ideas and products. You'll engage creatively with different concepts, hone your communication skills and study successful PR and advertising campaigns under the guidance of experienced mentors and leading academics. Graduate career-ready with the skills and knowledge to drive meaningful progress in the world of PR and advertising. This program will shape you into a well-rounded communication professional known for your creativity, innovation and business acumen.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

For the 1 year stream (A):
Honours degree or Graduate Diploma* (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%.
Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%, plus one year relevant professional experience.
For the 1.7 year stream (B):
Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%.
Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%, plus one year relevant professional experience.
For the 2 year stream (C):
Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65% or better.
Honours degree or Graduate Diploma (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%.
Relevant disciplines include: Media, Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, Advertising.
Qualifications in the following disciplines may also be relevant where there is evidence of specialisation in Media, Communication, Journalism, Public Relations and/or Advertising: Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; Marketing, Business, Commerce, Management; Law.
English language requirements: Evidence of English proficiency may be required depending on your educational background and citizenship. Accepted evidence includes English language tests and university English courses, prior study in the medium of English, or other qualifications.
You may be eligible to have your study recognised via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), allowing credit points to be counted towards the degree.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Public Relations and Advertising go on to lead vibrant, future-focused careers in diverse roles across government, media and corporate communication. From representing an array of clients within an agency environment to working in-house for leading brands or thought leaders, there are plenty of opportunities to flex your creativity, innovation and strategic thinking skills. Public Relations Managers and Advertising Managers are becoming highly sought-after in Australia, and demand for both roles is expected to grow by 4.4% over the next five years (Seek, 2026). Advertising, Public Relations and Sales Managers earn an average of $2,331 per week, which is $634 above the total workforce median (Jobs and Skills Atlas Australia, 2026).

Potential careers include: Account executive, Account manager, Advertising strategist, Brand manager, Brand strategist, Campaign manager, Chief marketing officer (CMO), Communications director, Communications manager, Content strategist, Crisis communications specialist, Head of brand, Media relations manager, Political communications adviser, Political strategist, Press secretary, Public information officer, Public relations manager, Publicist, Social media manager.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the Master of Public Relations and Advertising?

The duration depends on your prior experience. If you have significant PR or advertising experience, you may be able to complete the degree comprising 48 units of credit (UOC) in one year of full-time study (or the part-time equivalent). If you have some relevant experience, there is a fast-tracked version comprising 72 UOC in 1.7 years of full-time study. Students without prior experience must complete 96 UOC over two years of full-time study or the part-time equivalent.

What are the fees for the Master of Public Relations and Advertising?

For domestic students, the 2026 indicative first year full fee is $34,500, with an indicative full fee to complete the degree of $69,500. For international students, the 2026 indicative first year full fee is $51,000, with an indicative full fee to complete the degree of $106,000. Fees are subject to annual review and may vary accordingly.

What electives can I choose in this program?

The program allows you to tailor your studies with flexible electives based on a specific field of interest. Electives include industry-relevant subjects such as Understanding Digital Cultures, Advertising Analytics, Understanding Contemporary Media, Advertising & Strategy, and Writing for Media.

What industry opportunities are available during the program?

You'll be supported and encouraged to make the most of UNSW's strong industry connections through work experience, industry-focused projects, networking and work-integrated learning opportunities. You'll also be mentored by academics who are leaders in the industry and at the forefront of key trends, discourses, dynamics and patterns in global media and communications.

Can I combine this degree with another master's program at UNSW?

Yes. You can combine the Master of Public Relations and Advertising with another eligible Arts, Design & Architecture master's degree to graduate with even more expertise and potential, allowing you to earn two master's degrees.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

💬

Need guidance?

Free advisor support

Our advisors help international students choose the right course and navigate visa pathways — at no cost.

Quick Tools

PR Points Calculator Visa Funds Calculator Compare Courses

Partner with Find the Courses