Program Overview

Bachelor of Communication Studies with Honours

The Bachelor of Communication Studies with Honours (BCS(Hons)) is a one-year, 120-point programme that cultivates a diverse skillset highly valued in professional environments. This programme is ideal for those who want to fast-track their career, deepen their specialist knowledge, or prepare for postgraduate research such as a master’s or PhD.

Degree Information

• Points and Duration: 120 points, 1 year
• Locations: Hamilton
• Area of Study: Waikato Management School
• Start Dates: Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

Why Study the Bachelor of Communication Studies with Honours?

The BCS(Hons) is a mark of academic excellence that tells employers you have advanced knowledge, sharp analytical thinking, and strong research capabilities in your chosen field. This programme includes a mix of taught subject papers (up to 90 points) and a research dissertation (at least 30 points) on a topic of your choice. You may include up to 30 points in elective papers from other subjects to broaden your expertise.

Career Opportunities

• Business/community/political leader
  • Business development manager
  • Change management specialist
  • Communications and engagement manager
  • Communications Advisor
  • Digital marketing specialist
  • Events and sponsorship manager
  • Internal communications advisor
  • International marketing analyst
  • Leadership & organisational development trainer
  • Marketing manager
  • Media relations adviser
  • Public relations consultant

Degree Structure

BCS(Hons) students must complete 120 points of papers at 500 level or above. This includes:

• At least 60 points in your specialist subject of Marketing, Public Relations, or Leadership Communication (including any compulsory papers)
• At least 30 points for a research dissertation
• Up to 30 points in elective papers from other subjects

Entry Requirements

To be admitted to the BCS(Hons), you must have been awarded the Bachelor of Communication (BC) degree, or an equivalent qualification, with at least a B grade average across the 300-level papers. You also need to have satisfied the prerequisites for graduate study in the major subject you wish to specialise in for the BCS(Hons) at a level considered appropriate by the Academic Board.

Fees and Scholarships

• Domestic Tuition Fees: Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
• Scholarships: Visit the Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.

Graduate Outcomes

Graduates of the Bachelor of Communication Studies with Honours will be expected to:

1. Understand, and be able to critically review and synthesise, the core theory, perspectives and analytical approaches within their subject area.
2. Be able to apply skills and knowledge to find, interpret, critique and evaluate research, commentary and policy relating to their subject area.
3. Make decisions, find solutions, and develop applications within their subject area, informed by disciplinary knowledge and sustainability concepts.
4. Effectively communicate arguments, findings and ideas informed by research within their subject area.

The BCS(Hons) may be awarded with either:

1. First Class Honours
2. Second Class Honours (First Division)
3. Second Class Honours (Second Division)
4. Third Class Honours

See the full qualification regulations for the BCS(Hons).