Australia is a common destination for students from Sri Lanka pursuing careers in media and communication. In 2024, Australia recorded over 1 million international student enrolments across all education sectors, with higher education institutions accounting for 453,796 of these enrolments. This marks a 15.2% increase from the previous year, highlighting Australia's growing appeal as a destination for global learners. The country offers quality education in journalism, film production, digital media, and public relations.
Bachelor's programmes in media studies in Australia offer Sri Lankan students practical experience in journalism, film, and digital media. Universities like the University of Sydney and RMIT University emphasise hands-on learning, where students create films, write for media outlets, and work on live broadcast projects.
Why Study Media Studies in Australia?
Australia's media education system combines classroom learning with practical industry experience, making it highly relevant and career-focused. The best universities for media studies in Australia work closely with television stations, newspapers, film studios, and digital agencies. This means students can do internships and projects with media companies while completing their degrees.
Studying media and communication in Australia gives Sri Lankan students the chance to learn different ways to tell stories, such as through videos, news reporting, social media, and advertising. Students gain experience creating content that connects with people from various communities. This kind of experience is useful for those who want to work in other countries or bring fresh ideas back to Sri Lanka.
The top Australian universities for media studies maintain high teaching standards and use modern equipment. Students learn on the same cameras, editing software, and broadcasting tools that professionals use. The small class sizes mean teachers can give personal attention to each student, helping them develop their unique creative voice.
Popular Courses for Media Studies in Australia
Australian universities offer diverse media and communication courses to match different student interests and career goals:
- Journalism: Learn news writing, reporting, and digital journalism skills through comprehensive courses in Australia.
- Film and Television Production: Create movies, documentaries, and TV shows with industry-standard equipment.
- Digital Media: Focus on social media, web content, and online marketing strategies.
- Public Relations: Study corporate communication and brand management.
- Advertising and Marketing Communication: Develop creative campaigns and strategies.
- Radio and Podcasting: Produce audio content and broadcast programmes.
- Photography and Visual Media: Master visual storytelling techniques.
- Media Studies and Theory: Understand how media affects society and culture.
- Entertainment Industry Studies: Learn about music, gaming, and the entertainment business.
These media and communication degrees in Australia provide comprehensive training for various career paths in the media industry.
Top Universities for Media Studies in Australia
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University Name
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QS World Subject Ranking 2025
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The University of Sydney
Sydney, Australia
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#28
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Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
Brisbane, Australia
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#33
|
|
The University of Melbourne
Parkville, Australia
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#39
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|
Monash University
Melbourne, Australia
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#51-100
|
|
RMIT University
Melbourne, Australia
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#51-100
|
|
Australian National University (ANU)
Canberra, Australia
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#51-100
|
|
The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)
Sydney, Australia
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#51-100
|
|
The University of Queensland
Brisbane City, Australia
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#101-150
|
|
University of Technology Sydney
Haymarket, Australia
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#101-150
|
|
Deakin University
Burwood, Australia
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#151-200
|
These are some of the best universities for media studies in Australia that offer strong programmes with excellent job placement rates and extensive industry connections. They regularly update their programmes to match current media trends and technology changes, making them ideal choices for students seeking quality education.
International Student Tuition Fees for Media Studies in Australia
The approximate annual international tuition fee ranges for bachelor's and master's degrees at the best universities for media studies in Australia for Sri Lankan students are listed below. These are relatively affordable media studies courses abroad, especially compared to universities in the UK or the US.
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University Name
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Course/Degree Type
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Annual Tuition Fees (AUD)
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|
The University of Sydney
|
Bachelor of Arts (Media and Communication)
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$46,900 - $53,600
|
|
Master of Digital Communication and Culture
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$47,700 - $54,600
|
|
Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
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Bachelor of Arts & Business
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$37,600 - $45,200
|
|
Master of Communication (Public Health focus)
|
$34,560 - $47,200
|
|
The University of Melbourne
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Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Fine Arts
|
$37,884 - $52,032
|
|
Master of Global Media Communication
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$30,976 - $50,450
|
|
Monash University
|
Bachelor of Media Communication
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$42,100 - $47,900
|
|
Master of Communication (General Postgraduate Range)
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$38,900 - $76,900
|
|
RMIT University
|
Bachelor of Professional Communication / Digital Film
|
$35,126 - $44,212
|
|
Master of Communication (General Postgraduate Range)
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$35,128 - $46,080
|
|
Australian National University (ANU)
|
Bachelor of Arts
|
$42,560 - $47,940
|
|
Master of Media and Communication
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$45,360 - $47,940
|
|
University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)
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General Undergraduate Programmes
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$40,000 - $50,000
|
|
Master of Public Health / Other Postgraduate Programmes
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$37,000 - $61,000+
|
|
The University of Queensland
|
Bachelor of Journalism / General Arts
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$33,888 - $43,200
|
|
Master of Communication / Master of Public Health
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$47,200 - $53,760
|
|
University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
|
Bachelor of Communication / Design
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$40,416 - $50,520
|
|
Master of Strategic Communication / MA in Data Science & Innovation
|
$43,110 - $52,992
|
|
Deakin University
|
General Bachelor of Arts Programmes
|
$35,000 - $42,000
|
|
Master of Communication
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$38,800
|
While these fees represent a significant investment, many institutions among the best universities for media studies in Australia offer scholarships and financial support to make education more accessible.
Please note that fees are subject to change with progressive years and vary with different universities. It is recommended for Sri Lankan students to check the latest information on the university websites.
Eligibility Criteria for Media Studies in Australia
To pursue media studies in Australia for Sri Lankan students, specific requirements must be met:
Academic Requirements- Completed high school with good grades (usually 65% aggregate or higher)
- For postgraduate media and communication degree programmes in Australia, a relevant bachelor's degree
English Language Requirements- IELTS Academic score of 6.5 bands overall (no band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL iBT score of 79 or higher
- PTE Academic score of 58 or higher
Additional Requirements- Some programmes may ask for a portfolio of creative work (such as writing samples, video projects, or media campaigns) and a statement of purpose explaining career goals.
- Statement of purpose explaining career goals
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or employers
- Interview (for some competitive programmes)
Applicants who studied in English-medium schools may be exempt from English tests at some of the top universities for media studies in Australia for Sri Lankan students.
Admission Process for Media Studies Programmes
Follow these steps for finalising and applying to one of the best universities for media studies in Australia for Sri Lankan students:
- Research and Choose Programmes: Compare different universities and their media and communication courses in Australia
- Check Entry Requirements: Ensure you meet academic and English language criteria. For Sri Lankan students, this may include GCE A-Level results equivalent to the Australian Year 12 qualification and IELTS Academic or TOEFL scores for English proficiency.
- Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, English test scores, GRE score (if applicable), SOP, LORs, CV, and work experience (if required)
- Submit Application: Apply directly on the university website or seek an agent's help for the application
- Receive Offer Letter: Universities will send acceptance letters to successful candidates
- Accept Offer and Pay Deposit: Confirm your place by accepting the offer
- Get Confirmation of Enrollment (COE): This document is needed for a visa application
- Apply for Student Visa: Submit a visa application with all required documents
- Prepare for Departure: Arrange accommodation, flights, and other travel needs
Most universities for media studies in Australia have two main intake periods: February/March and July/August. Application deadlines are usually 2-3 months before the semester starts.
Scholarships for Media Studies in Australia for Sri Lankan Students
The popular scholarships for Media Studies in Australia for Sri Lankan students are listed below.
Australia Awards ScholarshipsGovernment-funded scholarships, such as the Australia Awards, primarily support postgraduate study and cover full tuition, living expenses, and health insurance. These are highly competitive and subject to strict eligibility criteria, with availability for media and communication degrees depending on the applicant's country-specific priorities.
University-Specific ScholarshipsMost of the top Australian universities for media studies offer merit-based scholarships ranging from AU $5,000 to AU $15,000 per year. These are awarded based on academic performance.
Destination Australia ScholarshipsDestination Australia Scholarships provide AU $15,000 per year for students studying at regional campuses such as Charles Sturt University (Wagga Wagga), La Trobe University (Bendigo), and James Cook University (Townsville), helping lower living and study costs outside major cities.
Vice-Chancellor's International ScholarshipsPremium scholarships are offered by top universities, covering 25-50% of tuition fees for excellent students pursuing journalism and media courses in Australia.
Industry-Sponsored ScholarshipsSome media companies and organisations offer scholarships to students in specific fields like journalism or film production.
Students should apply for scholarships early, as deadlines are often months before course start dates. Most scholarships are competitive and require strong academic records for those seeking to study media in Australia for international students.
Aspirants are encouraged to check the individual university's scholarship pages regularly for any new introductions or criteria updation in scholarships for media studies in Australia.
Visa Requirements for Media Studies Students
Sri Lankan students need a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to pursue media studies in Australia or any other programme. The current base visa application fee for the main applicant is approximately AU $2,000, effective from April 1, 2025.
Media Studies Student Visa Requirements- Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE): An official document from an Australian university confirming your enrollment in a CRICOS-registered course.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds: Evidence that you have access to at least AU $29,710 per year to cover living expenses, in addition to your tuition fees and travel costs.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Health insurance for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.
- English Language Proficiency: Satisfactory test results (e.g., IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0, TOEFL iBT score of 79 or higher, or PTE Academic score of 58 or higher).
- Health Examinations and Police Clearances: You may need to undergo health checks and provide police clearances depending on your country of origin and planned stay.
- Genuine Student (GS) Statement: It involves answering specific questions in your visa application about:
- Your current circumstances (ties to family, community, employment, economic situation in your home country)
- Your reasons for choosing your specific course and institution in Australia
- How the course will benefit your future career goals
- Any relevant study history or visa history in Australia
Australian Student Visa Processing Details- Processing Time: Processing times can vary significantly. While some applications are processed faster, 90% of Higher Education Student Visa (Subclass 500) applications are processed within 6 months. It is advisable to check the latest processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Application Submission: Applications must be submitted online through the ImmiAccount of the Department of Home Affairs, Government of Australia.
- Work Rights: Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies when their course is in session. There are no work limits during scheduled course breaks.
- Multiple Entries: The visa typically allows multiple entries to Australia.
Post-Study Work Options for Sri Lankan Students
Graduates of Media Studies who complete a CRICOS-registered course in Australia may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) under the Post-Higher Education Work Stream. The duration of stay depends on the level of qualification:
Post-Study Work Stream Durations- Bachelor's Degree (including Honours): Up to 2 years
- Master's Degree (Coursework and Extended): Up to 2 years
- Master's Degree (Research): Up to 3 years
- Doctoral Degree (PhD): Up to 3 years
These durations generally apply to students who studied in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Graduates who have studied, lived, and worked in regional areas may be eligible to apply for a second Post-Higher Education Work Stream visa, with additional time granted based on the regional classification of the area.
Job Opportunities After Media Studies in Australia
Media studies graduates have many career options in Australia's growing media industry. Those who complete their media and communication degree in Australia can explore various paths.
Career Opportunities After Media Studies in Australia for Sri Lankan Students
After completing media studies in Australia, Sri Lankan graduates can work on these popular profiles and earn the following estimated range of salaries:
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Career Opportunity
|
Average Annual Salary (in AUD)
|
|
Journalist
|
AU $70,000 - $85,000
|
|
Content Creator
|
AU $75,000 - $85,000
|
|
Public Relations Officer
|
AU $85,000 - $95,000
|
|
Film/TV Producer
|
AU $85,000 - $105,000
|
|
Digital Marketing Specialist
|
AU $80,000 - $100,000
|
|
Social Media Manager
|
AU $85,000 - $105,000
|
Jobs Prospects After Media Studies in Australian Universities
The practical programmes for media studies in Australia prepare Sri Lankan students for dynamic careers in journalism, film, and digital media. The combination of high-quality education, strong industry connections, and practical experience makes Australia an ideal destination for aspiring media professionals seeking valuable media studies courses.
Graduates benefit from modern facilities, experienced faculty, and robust job placement support, leaving with skills that are highly valued worldwide. Whether they choose to work in Australia, return to Sri Lanka, or explore opportunities in other countries, the investment in a media and communication degree in Australia pays off through enhanced career prospects and higher earning potential.
Take the first step toward your media career by applying to some of the leading and best universities for media studies in Australia for Sri Lankan students with AECC Global. Register today.
Best Universities for Media Studies in Australia FAQs
1. Can I work while studying Media Studies in Australia?
Yes, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies. Sri Lankan students pursuing media studies in Australia can find part-time work in their field, such as at local radio stations, newspapers, or production companies, which provides valuable experience alongside their studies.
2. Which university is best for Media Studies in Australia?
The University of Sydney, Monash University, and Queensland University of Technology are consistently ranked among the best universities for media studies in Australia. The "best" university depends on your specific interests - Queensland University of Technology excels in creative industries, while the University of Sydney is strong in traditional journalism and media theory when you study media and communication abroad.
3. Is Media and Communication a PR pathway course in Australia?
Media and Communication can lead to roles like Journalist or PR Professional, which are on Australia's skilled occupation lists. However, it's not a guaranteed PR route. Eligibility depends on your occupation, work experience, English level, age, points score, and evolving immigration policies. For accurate guidance, consult official government sites or connect with AECC counsellors.
4. What is the duration of a Media Studies degree in Australia?
The duration of a full-time bachelor's degree in Media Studies in Australia is 3 years. A master's degree in Media and Communication in Australia is usually 1.5 to 2 years long. Some universities offer accelerated programmes that can be completed faster, while part-time options are available for students who need more flexible scheduling.
5. Are internships available for Media Studies students in Australia?
Yes, most of the top Australian universities for media studies have strong industry partnerships that provide internship opportunities. Many journalism and media courses in Australia include mandatory work placements or internships as part of the curriculum. International students pursuing media studies in Australia can gain experience at television stations, newspapers, advertising agencies, production companies, and digital media organisations.
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Nidhi Mehrotra, with extensive experience in Australian education, has helped countless students achieve their dreams of studying in Australia. Known for her expertise in visa applications and course selection, her guidance ensures success. Outside work, she enjoys reading and exploring new recipes, adding a personal touch to her mentoring.
