Online Courses Handbook 2003

300331 v.3 Bachelor of Arts (Mass Communication) (Honours)

BA(Hons)(Curtin)

Introduction
This honours course combines advanced coursework in the theoretical and practical aspects of mass communication with individual research, and professional practice in that field. Students firstly engage in a semester of coursework and individual project preparation, and then complete a semester of intensive research, writing, and, in some cases, professional practice during their dissertation. Students are required to contribute to their research via presentations in an academic setting. They learn skills in individual project management, research techniques, critical thinking, analytical writing as well as detailed knowledge in their specific project area. More creative production and professional practice can be combined with academic research to provide a substantial applied research outcome. Students are encouraged to complete interdisciplinary work relating mass communication to the broader, converging field of media and information.

Recognition of Prior Learning
Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis.

Duration and Availability
The course is of one year full-time or equivalent part-time study. Extensions may only be granted in exceptional cases. It is normally expected that students attend campus for study but the School of Media and Information is committed to the provisionof high-quality supervision to off-campus students and computer-mediated supervision.

Additional Course Expenses
Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials. In addition, students may also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables, which varies depending on the area of study. Students are expected tocover the cost of studies, but the school may in some circumstances be able to provide limited assistance to meet some of the costs of completing an honours research project.

Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit

Year 1 Semester 1

301946 v.3 Media and Information 413 - Research Methods and Skills 2.0 25.0

301951 v.3 Media and Information 411 - Concepts and Theories 2.0 25.0

301957 v.3 Media and Information 414 - Project Presentation 2.0 25.0

301959 v.3 Media and Information 412 - Project Preparation 2.0 25.0

100.0

Year 1 Semester 2

13247 v.4 Media and Information 498 - Honours Dissertation 3.0 100.0

100.0

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