Written by Teegan Groves
Whether you’re in your first, second, third, or even fourth year of study, I’m here to tell you that it’s okay to not know what you want to do after graduation. A media and communications degree is a very diverse degree which is suitable foundation for a whole plethora of jobs. Although creative industry students are often teased by their science, law, and health faculty counterparts, we are often able to have the last laugh.
Media and communication degrees are applicable for an abundance of sectors, and as a result, you are able to shape your career to whatever direction you desire. Yes, it can be overwhelming to think about where this degree may take you, but this article is here to show and discuss a few different streams of employment. I want to broaden your horizon about possible job opportunities rather than just considering the normal marketing, media and PR firms.
Health Communication:
Through the emergence of modern media and web 2.0, the power of communication has become extremely relevant to the health sector. The health sector is a very broad term, and is inclusive of a large array of business’s, including hospitals, disease specific organisations, the Australian Government, just to name a few. Although a media and communications graduate is not the most thought of employee for the health sector, they are a vital addition. Media and communication graduates contribute through ensuring the spread of accurate health information, helping raise awareness about a certain health issue and keeping successful relations. The types of positions available in the sector often include content creation, marketing, public relations and social media strategist – all of which are built within our degree.
Photography & Video Editing:
With visual content dominating all social media platforms, the roles of photography, videoing and editing have becoming increasingly important and reliable upon. Having these skills, in addition to the degree, can lead to employment within any sector. You could be hired simply as a photographer, photo editor and/or videographer, or use these skills to stand out within public relations, marketing and social media managing. Be sure to check out the Franklin Smith Marketing Intern as it has particular focus on photography and video content.
Defence Force:
The Defence Force (ADF) may not be your initial thought for your future career, however there are ADF positions that need the knowledge and skills of a media and communications graduate. Relevant roles include multimedia technician and public relations. It is of great importance for the Defence Force that they are perceived well within the broader community and maintain effective communication with not only the broader community but also within the Defence Force community. Through using your media and communication knowledge, you can help achieve this. Tasks include: effective media liaison, preparing media releases, produce interactive media, photography and design and layout.
Radio:
Often times radio is viewed as a dying medium and can be overlooked as a future career. However, this is not necessarily the truth, with radio still arguably being a reputable and important form of mass media. Many radio stations are adopting modern media practices and use social media and new digital platforms to stay relevant. A career in radio would allow you to put to use many of the skills acquired throughout your degree. Dependent on the specific position, skills required in radio involve public speaking, content creation, web design and the ability to research and up to date on media and news issues.
If you are interested in finding an internship, be sure to check out the opportunities tab, where all available positions are listed.