CC24 - Bachelor of Digital Media

Overview

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Digital Media can prepare you for a professional career in the media and communications industry by providing practical skills and relevant theory that can be applied in a variety of fields associated with design, technology and media.

The course's flexible structure allows you to focus on your individual strengths and interests by pursuing specialisations in Graphic Design, Interactive Media, Screen Production, Animation, or a combination of these areas.

Working within multimedia computer laboratories and production studios, you will learn how to create digital media works using industry-standard software tools and techniques. You will learn how to think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, and work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

The Bachelor of Digital Media gives you the opportunity to engage with clients on real-world projects, ensuring that you are work-ready upon graduation.

The course can be studied on-campus or online, providing maximum flexibility. It also incorporates two optional exit / interim awards: a one-year Diploma of Digital Media and a two-year Associate Degree of Digital Media.

Graduates of the Diploma of Digital Media may articulate into the second year of either the Associate Degree of Digital Media or the Bachelor of Digital Media.

Graduates of the Associate Degree of Digital Media may articulate into the third year of the Bachelor of Digital Media.

Career Information

The digital revolution has dramatically changed the way we work, learn, play and communicate. It has created jobs that didn’t exist a decade ago and it has profoundly changed others. People who are skilled in the production and application of digital media are in demand. The Bachelor of Digital Media prepares graduates for a professional career within the digital media industries. Employment opportunities for graduates with relevant creative and technical expertise can be found in areas such as web design, graphic design, publishing, photography, illustration, animation, game development, software development, audio production, video production, film and television post-production, visual effects, advertising, marketing, journalism, corporate communications, education and training.

Course Details
Duration 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time
Credit Points that Must be Earned 144
Number of Units Required CQUniversity uses the concept of credits to express the amount of study required for a particular course and individual units. The number of units varies between courses. Units in undergraduate courses normally consist of 6 points of credit or multiples thereof (e.g. 12, 18, 24).
Expected Hours of Study One point of credit is equivalent to an expectation of approximately two hours of student work per week in a term.
Course Type Undergraduate Award
Qualification (post nominal) BDigitalMedia
AQF Level Level 7: Bachelor Degree
Course Fees
Indicative Year - 2024
  • Commonwealth Supported Place – Indicative First Year Fee - $13,554
  • Domestic Full Fee Paying – Indicative First Year Fee - $19,918.5
  • International Indicative First Term Fee - $16,620
  • International Indicative First Year Fee - $32,940
Indicative Year - 2023
  • Commonwealth Supported Place – Indicative First Year Fee - $12,571
  • International Indicative First Term Fee - $15,600
  • International Indicative First Year Fee - $31,200
Indicative Year - 2022
  • Commonwealth Supported Place – Indicative First Year Fee - $12,146
  • International Indicative First Term Fee - $15,600
  • International Indicative First Year Fee - $31,200

Admission Codes

Where and when can I start?
Units offered internally at the below campuses may be delivered using a combination of face-to-face and video conferencing style teaching.
Units offered via MIX mode are delivered online and require compulsory attendance of site-specific learning activities such as on-campus residential schools, placements and/or work integrated learning. See Course Features tab for further information. Online units are delivered using online resources only.
Please Click Here for more information.
The following tables list the courses availabilities by location and term. Directing your pointer over your preferred location will provide further information if this course is not available for the full duration. Please be sure to also check individual unit availability by location and term prior to enrolling.

Domestic Availability

Term 2 - 2025

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2025

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2024

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2024

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton

Term 3 - 2023

Sorry, no domestic availabilities found.

Term 2 - 2023

On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.
Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2023

On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.
Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton

Term 3 - 2022

Sorry, no domestic availabilities found.

Term 2 - 2022

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2022

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2021

Online

Term 1 - 2021

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2020

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2020

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Noosa
Online
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2019

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Noosa
Online
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2019

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Cairns
Mackay
Noosa
Online
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2018

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Noosa
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2018

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Noosa
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2017

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Noosa
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2017

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Noosa
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2016

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Noosa
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2016

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Noosa
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2015

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Noosa
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2015

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Noosa
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2014

Bundaberg
Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Noosa
Rockhampton
Show All

International Availability

Term 2 - 2025

Brisbane
Online

Term 1 - 2025

Brisbane
Online

Term 2 - 2024

Brisbane
Online

Term 1 - 2024

Brisbane
Online

Term 3 - 2023

Sorry, no international availabilities found.

Term 2 - 2023

On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.
Brisbane
Online

Term 1 - 2023

On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.
Brisbane
Online

Term 3 - 2022

Sorry, no international availabilities found.

Term 2 - 2022

Brisbane
Online

Term 1 - 2022

Brisbane
Online

Term 2 - 2021

Brisbane
Online

Term 1 - 2021

Brisbane
Online

Term 2 - 2020

Brisbane
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2020

Brisbane
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2019

Brisbane
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2019

Brisbane
Mackay
Online
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2018

Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2018

Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2017

Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2017

Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2016

Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2016

Brisbane
Distance
Mackay
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2015

Brisbane
Distance
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 1 - 2015

Brisbane
Distance
Rockhampton
Sydney

Term 2 - 2014

Brisbane
Distance
Rockhampton
Show All
For any problems regarding admissions availability for the selected course please contact 13 CQUni (13 27 86) or send us an email at http://contactus.cqu.edu.au/
What do I need to start?
Entry Scores
Rank Threshold SR 60.00 | ATAR 60.00
Entry Requirements

English (Units 3 & 4, C) or equivalent

English Language Proficiency Requirements

If you were not born in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa or United States of America, you are required to meet the English Language Proficiency requirements set by the University.

Applicants are required to provide evidence of completion of:

  • A secondary qualification (Year 11 and 12, or equivalent); or
  • An Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) diploma level qualification; or
  • Bachelor level qualification study for a period of at least 2 years full time with a minimum overall GPA 4.0

completed within Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, South Africa, Ireland or United States of America.

If you do not satisfy any of the above, you will need to undertake an English language proficiency test and achieve the following scores:

  • An International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic) overall band score of at least 6.0 with a minimum 5.5 in each subset; or
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - requires 550 or better overall and minimum TWE score of 4.5 (Paper Based Test), or 75 or better overall and no score less than 17 (Internet Based Test); or
  • Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) - requires an overall score of 54 with no sub-score less than 46; or
  • An Occupational English Test with Grades A or B only in each of the four components.

English test results remain valid for no more than two years between final examination date the the date of commencement of study and must appear on a single result certificate.

International Students should visit http://www.cqu.edu.au/international for further information.

Each student will be assessed individually.

Security Requirements
No information available at this time
Health Requirements
No information available at this time
Assumed Knowledge

Not applicable

Course Features

Awards and Accreditation

Interim Awards CC25 - Diploma of Digital Media CC26 - Associate Degree of Digital Media
Exit Awards CC25 - Diploma of Digital Media CC26 - Associate Degree of Digital Media
Accreditation
  • : Core

Residential School Requirements

No Residential School for this course.

Practicum/Work Placement

MMST13018 - Students work in a team to complete a digital media project for a real client in a supportive, scaffolded learning environment over a period of two terms.
MMST13015 - Students work in a team to complete a digital media project for a real client in a supportive, scaffolded learning environment over a period of two terms.
DGTL13005 - Students undertake a digital media project of their choice in consultation with academic and workplace supervisors. Work placements with an approved organisation (minimum of 120 hours) are an option.

Previous and Current Enrolments

Year Number of Students
2024 133
2023 182
2022 224
2021 267
2020 294
Inherent Requirements
There are Inherent Requirements (IRs) that you need to be aware of, and fulfil, to achieve the core learning outcomes of the units and course. IRs are the essential capabilities, knowledge, behaviours and skills that are needed to complete a unit or course.

Please note that in some instances there may be similarities between course, entry and inherent requirements.

If you experience difficulties meeting these requirements, reasonable adjustments may be made upon contacting accessibility@cqu.edu.au. Adjustment must not compromise the academic integrity of the degree or course chosen at CQUniversity or the legal requirements of field education.

Ethical Behaviour

Examples are:

  • Complying with academic and non-academic misconduct policies and procedures such as CQUniversity’s Student Charter, Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure, Student Behavioural Misconduct Procedure, and Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
  • Demonstrating honesty and integrity in academic and professional practice.
Behavioural Stability

Examples are:

  • Reflecting on personal behaviour in relation to professional performance, and being receptive to constructive feedback or criticism from a supervisor or lecturer.
  • Successfully processing and coping with your own emotions and behaviour when dealing with individuals in an educational or professional environment.
Legal Compliance

Examples are:

  • Complying with the policies and practices of relevant professional bodies such as the Australian Computer Society, the Design Institute of Australia, the Australian Graphic Design Association, and the like.
  • Complying with the policies and practices of organisations in which you may be placed or find employment.
Communication Skills (Verbal, Non-verbal, Written and Technology)

Examples are:

  • Verbally communicating in the English language with accuracy, appropriateness and effectiveness.
  • Participating in discussion activities related to the course.
  • Delivering a presentation to a group.
  • Using language that is appropriate to the context of the individual, group or workplace.
  • Using appropriate facial expressions, eye contact, body movements and gestures, and being mindful of personal space boundaries.
  • Recognising and interpreting non-verbal cues of others and responding appropriately.
  • Being sufficiently aware of cultural differences to engage in culturally appropriate interpersonal communication.
  • Competently using computer-mediated channels of communication such as online discussion forums, email, social media and video-conferencing.
  • Producing written work with correct spelling, grammar and punctuation that clearly communicates the intended message.
  • Accurately conveying and documenting information in a written form that meets professional standards.
Cognitive Abilities (Knowledge and Cognitive Skills, Literacy and Numeracy)

Examples are:

  • Conceptualising and using appropriate knowledge in response to academic assessment items.
  • Applying theoretical knowledge, research evidence, policies and procedures in professional practice.
  • Constructing written text proficiently, in English, using appropriate vocabulary and conventions of speech.
  • Being able to paraphrase, summarise and reference in accordance with appropriate academic conventions.
  • Competently reading, writing and interpreting information.
  • Using numeracy skills to interpret and solve basic mathematical problems.
Sensory Abilities (Visual, Auditory, Tactile)

Examples are:

  • Perceiving colours, tones, motion and depth.
  • Perceiving fine detail on the screen of a computer or mobile device.
  • Discerning an object from its background.
  • Creating and editing visual designs, artworks, audio recordings, video recordings, animations, 3D models and motion graphics.
  • Interacting with a computer through input devices such as a mouse or keyboard.
  • Interacting with mobile devices through inputs such as speech, buttons and a touchscreen.
  • Operating digital media production equipment such as video cameras, still cameras, microphones, lighting kits, background kits, and the like.
  • Drawing with a pencil, pen or graphics tablet.
Relational Skills

Examples are:

  • Establishing rapport with colleagues, teaching staff, clients, supervisors and others in a professional environment, and responding appropriately to them.
  • Displaying empathy and respecting multiple points of view.
Reflective Skills

Examples are:

  • Reflecting on content that is taught during the course.
  • Reflecting on your professional performance with a view to future improvement.
Sustainable Performance

Examples are:

  • Actively participating in tasks related to the course and professional practice.
  • Demonstrating the physical energy and concentration required to complete learning activities and assessment tasks in a timely manner.
Strength and Mobility (Gross Motor Skills and Fine Motor Skills)

Examples are:

  • Interacting with a computer through input devices such as a mouse or keyboard.
  • Interacting with mobile devices through inputs such as speech, buttons and a touchscreen.
  • Operating digital media production equipment such as video cameras, still cameras, microphones, lighting kits, background kits, and the like.
  • Drawing with a pencil, pen or graphics tablet.
Interpersonal Engagement

Examples are:

  • Collaborating with colleagues on group tasks and projects.
  • Successfully managing conflict that may arise during group activities.
  • Communicating effectively with colleagues, teaching staff, clients, supervisors and others in a professional environment.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Abilities

Examples are:

  • Competently using a computer operating system such as Microsoft Windows or macOS.
  • Competently using a mobile operating system such as iOS or Android.
  • Competently using digital media software tools such as Adobe Creative Cloud applications.
  • Competently using productivity software such as Microsoft Office.
  • Operating electronic devices such as video cameras, still cameras, audio recorders, graphics tablets, scanners, tablet computers or mobile phones.
Core Learning Outcomes
  • 1. Demonstrate a broad range of skills and knowledge relating to theories, practices, languages, technologies and techniques in the field of digital media, with depth in selected areas
  • 2. Identify, analyse, develop and evaluate ideas and information within a digital media context
  • 3. Solve problems and exercise critical and creative thinking ability
  • 4. Create digital media works using industry-standard software tools, with particular proficiency in selected areas of specialisation
  • 5. Communicate effectively with a range of audiences using various media forms
  • 6. Work independently, collaboratively and professionally on digital media projects
  • 7. Recognise and reflect on social, cultural and ethical issues in the field of digital media.
  Course Learning Outcomes
Australian Qualifications Framework Descriptors 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1. KNOWLEDGE Have a broad and coherent body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in one or more disciplines as a basis for independent lifelong learning
2. SKILLS Have cognitive skills to review critically, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge
3. SKILLS Have cognitive and technical skills to demonstrate a broad understanding of knowledge with depth in some areas
4. SKILLS Have cognitive and creative skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence
5. SKILLS Have communication skills to present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas
6. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Demonstrate initiative and judgement in planning, problem solving and decision making in professional practice and/or scholarship
7. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Adapt knowledge and skills in diverse contexts
8. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILL Be responsible and accountable for own learning and professional practice and in collaboration with others within broad parameters
KNOWLEDGE Develop an understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and culture in contemporary and historical context using the respectful and appropriate protocols and terminology
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Engage in reflective self-evaluation of own cultural values and perspectives to proactively create an inclusive workplace that affirms and celebrates cultural diversity
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Display leadership by creating inclusive work environments and work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in a culturally respectful manner
Animation Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Graphic Design Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Interactive Media Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Screen Production Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Course Structure

In order to complete this course, you must:

  1. Complete the core structure
  2. Complete 2 minors
  3. Complete electives
Course Structure

In order to complete this course, you must:

  1. Complete the core structure
  2. Complete 2 minors
  3. Complete electives

Graphic Design Minor

Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
DGTL12004 Print Design
DGTL12005 Contemporary Photomedia
DGTL12006 Visual Communication Design
DGTL13006 Digital Communications Management
Course Structure

In order to complete this course, you must:

  1. Complete the core structure
  2. Complete 2 minors
  3. Complete electives

Interactive Media Minor

Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
MMST12009 Web Application Development
MMST12017 Game Design
DGTL12008 Mobile Application Development
DGTL13007 Game Development
Course Structure

In order to complete this course, you must:

  1. Complete the core structure
  2. Complete 2 minors
  3. Complete electives

Screen Production Minor

Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
DGTL12013 Writing for the Screen
DGTL12014 Documentary Filmmaking
DGTL12015 Video Editing and Post-Production
DGTL13008 Visual Storytelling
Course Structure

In order to complete this course, you must:

  1. Complete the core structure
  2. Complete 2 minors
  3. Complete electives
Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

Students must complete 4 elective units, which may be selected from any CQUniversity undergraduate or postgraduate course, provided that prerequisite and corequisite requirements are met.

More Details

Credit Transfer

Students will be assessed for credit transfer on an individual basis and will be required to nominate the CQUniversity units they wish to be considered for exemption from. Credit transfer will only be granted where a student is able to demonstrate that tertiary studies, equivalent in content and depth to the CQUniversity unit, have been successfully completed. Students should examine the unit synopses in this handbook to determine the units for which they may be eligible to claim exemption. Students may only gain credit transfer for up to 67% of the overall course. Study undertaken more than 10 years ago is not normally considered for credit transfer. Qualifications below the level of a Diploma are not considered for credit transfer. Refer to the Credit Transfer website at https://www.cqu.edu.au/courses-and-programs/credit-transfer-and-rpl/credit-transfers for further details on the guidelines and application process.

Computing Requirements

Students who enrol in this course require access to a computer with an internet connection. Hardware and software requirements vary for individual units within the course. On-campus students may use the computer hardware, software and production equipment that is available at their local campus.

Study Schedules

Students who enrol in this course should download a course planner from https://www.cqu.edu.au/student-life/new-students/planners-and-profiles/first-year-planners to help with the development of their personal study schedule. When preparing a study schedule it is important to check the availability of individual units by looking up their term of offer and location in this Handbook. Full-time students usually enrol in 4 units per term, and part-time students usually enrol in 2 units per term. Students can get assistance with the preparation of their study schedule by contacting a Student Advisor by email at spc@cqu.edu.au.

Exit and Interim Awards

The Bachelor of Digital Media has two optional exit / interim awards: a Diploma of Digital Media (8 units; 48 units of credit) and an Associate Degree of Digital Media (16 units; 96 units of credit).

Diploma of Digital Media

Students can ask to be awarded the Diploma of Digital Media as either an exit award or an interim award after successfully completing the 8 compulsory level 1 units from the core structure of the Bachelor of Digital Media. The exit award is for students who want to exit the Bachelor of Digital Media early. The interim award is for students who want to continue their studies in the Bachelor of Digital Media. For more information about the rules governing this exit / interim award, please contact a Student Advisor by email at spc@cqu.edu.au.

Associate Degree of Digital Media

Students can ask to be awarded the Associate Degree of Digital Media as either an exit award or an interim award after successfully completing 8 compulsory level 1 units from the core structure of the Bachelor of Digital Media and 8 units from 2 minors (Graphic Design, Interactive Media, or Video and Animation). The exit award is for students who want to exit the Bachelor of Digital Media early. The interim award is for students who want to continue their studies in the Bachelor of Digital Media. For more information about the rules governing this exit / interim award, please contact a Student Advisor by email at spc@cqu.edu.au.

On-Campus Classes

On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.