Bachelor of Communication

Summary

Choose a Bachelor of Communication at Victoria University of Wellington and study in New Zealand’s communication hub.

In our media-saturated society, clear, persuasive, and imaginative communication is more important than ever. With the three-year Bachelor of Communication (BC), you’ll build the communication skills and knowledge you need for your future career.

A unique approach for your one-of-a-kind degree

Develop your knowledge of communication and explore your own passions and interests through the BC’s distinctive three-pillar structure.

Anchor your learning in core courses designed with the input of the communications industry. Build your understanding of the theory behind communication practice, and get a solid grounding in contemporary approaches.

Major in the area that best appeals to your interests. Choose from Marketing Communication, Media Studies, Intercultural Communication, Science Communication, Literary and Creative Communication, Linguistics and Political Communication. We’re the only university where you can major in Science Communication, and Literary and Creative Communication.

Finally, add a complementary minor or major to build a degree unique to you. Choose from a huge range of science and arts subjects and find one that will enhance your communication knowledge and expertise.

You’ll be studying at New Zealand’s seat of government, centre of political power, and scientific and creative heart—where this deep knowledge of communication is always in demand.

Globally ranked

This programme is ranked in the top 250 worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2026.

The QS World University Rankings is an annual global publication that gives overall rankings and subject rankings for more than 1,500 universities worldwide.

Interested in studying for a Bachelor of Communication?

Sign up now to find out more about our degree.

Scholarships for international students

We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree. Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.

First year

In your first year you’ll begin building the fundamental framework of your degree, becoming familiar with communication theory and practice. You’ll also begin your major and complementary minor or major.

Second year

You’ll be refining and building on your knowledge of communication, as well as deepening your knowledge of your major and complementary minor or major subjects.

Third year

At the end of your third year, you’ll have a solid base on which to launch into your career.

You’ll apply what you’ve learned through a small research project, or an applied project like the design of a communication campaign or website.

As well as more traditional lecture formats, you’ll attend smaller, more informal lectures and workshops. You’ll have the opportunity to see communications professionals in action, with field trips to government departments and businesses.

You’ll graduate with a deep theoretical knowledge as well as understanding how communication is used in the workplace everyday—the foundation for a variety of exciting careers.

Improve your writing

Clear writing is vital to your success at university and at work. It helps you understand your subject, organise your thoughts, and communicate your message. If you want to improve your writing, consider the Writing (Academic and Professional) course.

Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded to hundreds of first-year students each year. They help with living costs and accommodation costs at the University's halls of residence.

Our Tangiwai, Totoweka, and Kahotea scholarships are available to school leavers, and there are several other first-year scholarships on offer in our scholarships database.

You can also apply for a TeachNZ Scholarship. These scholarships are awarded based on specific areas where teachers are needed.

We strongly recommend applying for our scholarships, as they often don’t receive enough applications.

International scholarships

Many scholarships are available for international students at Victoria University of Wellington. They can help with tuition fees and with accommodation costs.