Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
120
Overview
Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication
Introduction
Learn to plan communications for advertising, media content, business, and other public communications with the Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication (PGDipStratCom).
This programme is open to students of any study background and will develop your practical skills to create effective communications media for a range of audiences.
Online study option
You can study either on campus or exclusively online. The online programme follows different term dates and has a more prescribed course list.
Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication
What will my study involve?
- Learn communications basics such as strategic messaging, digital communications and social media, audience research and analysis, and more.
- Elective courses to focus your skillset in particular areas, such as in leadership and workplace communications, crisis management, data analysis, and more.
- Practical work planning communications and social media campaigns.
Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication
Entry requirements
To apply for the Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication, you will need to have either a bachelor's degree (with a minimum B GPA in your final year courses, or three years relevant work experience) or have at least five years of relevant practical or professional experience.
If English is not your first language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements. If you need help meeting these requirements, or would like to practise your English skills before studying, UC offers English for Academic Purposes (EAP) language programmes.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC for the on-campus version, or through Tuihono UC | UC Online for the online version.
See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.
Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication
How do I plan my diploma?
The PGDipStratCom is made up a of a total 120 points, involving compulsory courses and a range of electives depending on whether you are studying the Diploma in person on campus, or fully online.
The Diploma will take one year full-time to complete, or can be completed within three years part-time.
For the full degree requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication.
Online study option
You can study either on campus or exclusively online. The online programme follows different term dates and has a more prescribed course list.
Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication
Subjects and courses
If you are completing the online version of the Diploma, see Tuihono UC | UC Online for your course details.
For in-person study, complete the following:
- COMS421 Foundations of Strategic Communication
- COMS425 Campaign Planning with Social Data Analysis
- Two courses chosen from these elective options
Please contact the Internship Coordinator, PACE (paceinternships@canterbury.ac.nz) as soon as possible if you are interested in PACE495.
Domestic students
Tuition fee estimate to be confirmed.
International students
2025 tuition fee estimate: $36,800 (120 points)
2026 tuition fee estimate: $38,200 (120 points)
Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication
Further study
UC offers a Master of Strategic Communication, which include the same courses as the Diploma plus an additional final project producing either a portfolio or dissertation.
You can transfer your completed courses in the Diploma to the Master's degree, with approval.
Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Communication
Career ready
This programme will prepare you to enter roles in communications agencies, news media, publishing, and other sectors.
Many organisations need graduates with specialist skills in communicating effectively, particularly in public relations, advocacy, and advertising.
