Communication Management Course At Unisa

The University of South Africa (Unisa) is one of the most prominent distance-learning institutions in Africa, offering a wide range of courses across various fields. Among these fields, communication management stands out as an essential area of study for individuals looking to build a career in media, public relations, corporate communication, or related sectors.

This article breaks down the list of communication management courses available at Unisa, their structure, and how they can help advance your career. Whether you want to gain foundational skills or specialize in advanced communication techniques, Unisa provides options for everyone.

What is Communication Management?

Before diving into the list of courses, it’s important to understand what communication management entails. Communication management is the strategic planning, execution, and evaluation of communication processes within organizations or between individuals. It focuses on how messaging is conveyed effectively to achieve objectives, whether for business, marketing, or social purposes.

From learning about communication theories to mastering practical tools for media engagement, Unisa’s communication management courses are designed to meet the needs of both beginners and professionals.

Why Study Communication Management at Unisa?

Studying communication management at Unisa comes with numerous advantages:

Flexibility: Unisa offers distance-learning programs, so you can study anywhere and at your own pace.
Accreditation: Unisa’s courses are respected and recognized internationally, making their qualifications valuable for the global workforce.
Practical Skills: The courses emphasize real-world application, equipping students with effective communication strategies for professional settings.
Variety of Courses: Unisa provides a range of communication-related programs, catering to various educational needs, from short courses to postgraduate programs.

List of Communication Management Courses at Unisa

Unisa categorizes its courses into undergraduate, postgraduate, and short learning programs. Below is a breakdown of these offerings:

Undergraduate Courses in Communication Management

Unisa offers several undergraduate programs for students seeking to gain foundational knowledge in communication management. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions in media, corporate communication, and public relations.

1. Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science

Overview: This degree program introduces students to the principles of communication, media studies, and organizational communication. It includes modules such as media ethics, public relations, and communication research methods.
Duration: 3-4 years (depending on part-time or full-time study)
Career Outcomes: Media planner, corporate communication officer, public relations assistant.

2. Higher Certificate in Communication

Overview: This is an introductory qualification designed for students who do not meet the requirements for a degree but want to pursue a career in communication. It focuses on the basics of communication, language skills, and critical thinking.
Duration: 1 year (full-time)
Career Outcomes: Entry-level communication assistant, junior public relations officer.

3. Diploma in Public Relations

Overview: This diploma program prepares students specifically for careers in public relations, where they will learn about stakeholder management, event planning, and campaign development.
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Public relations officer, events coordinator, communications specialist.

4. Certificate in Media Studies and Corporate Communication

Overview: This short certificate program provides foundational knowledge in media management and corporate communication, emphasizing practical skills beneficial for junior positions.
Duration: 6 months – 1 year
Career Outcomes: Media assistant, junior communication consultant.

Postgraduate Courses in Communication Management

For individuals who want to deepen their knowledge and specialize in communication management, Unisa offers advanced postgraduate qualifications. These are ideal for professionals looking to advance in their careers or pursue research opportunities.

1. Honours Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science

Overview: This program is designed for students who have completed a bachelor’s degree and want to explore advanced topics in communication, such as media law, advanced public relations, and research methodologies.
Duration: 1-2 years
Career Outcomes: Senior communication strategist, media analyst, policy advisor.

2. Postgraduate Diploma in Communication Management

Overview: This postgraduate diploma focuses on the strategic and managerial aspects of communication. Students learn about organizational communication frameworks, media and public relations, and communication project management.
Duration: 1 year (full-time)
Career Outcomes: Communication consultant, corporate media manager, project manager.

3. Master of Arts in Communication Science

Overview: This research-based program allows students to specialize in a specific area of communication management, such as crisis communication, organizational development, or digital communication.
Duration: 2-3 years
Career Outcomes: Researcher, senior communication manager, academic lecturer.

4. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Communication Science

Overview: The PhD program is the highest level of academic achievement in communication management. It involves in-depth research on a chosen topic, contributing new knowledge to the field.
Duration: 3-6 years
Career Outcomes: Academic researcher, industry expert, policy commentator.

Short Learning Programs in Communication Management

Short learning programs are ideal for professionals or students who want to gain specific skills without committing to long-term study. These programs are typically shorter in duration and focus on practical application.

1. Short Course in Strategic Communication in Practice

Overview: This course is designed to teach students how to develop and implement effective communication strategies for businesses or organizations.
Duration: 3-6 months
Career Outcomes: Communication planner, marketing assistant.

2. Short Course in Media Management

Overview: This program focuses on the management aspects of media organizations, including budgets, staffing, and content creation.
Duration: 3-6 months
Career Outcomes: Media project manager, assistant editor.

3. Workshop on Crisis Communication

Overview: This is a practical, hands-on workshop that teaches participants how to manage communication during crises, such as reputation management and media relations.
Duration: 1-2 months
Career Outcomes: Crisis communication officer, PR specialist.

4. Digital Marketing and Communication Strategies

Overview: This course focuses on the role of digital media in communication management, teaching skills such as social media marketing, content creation, and email campaigns.
Duration: 6 months
Career Outcomes: Social media manager, content strategist.

Entry Requirements for Communication Management Courses at Unisa

The requirements for enrolling in communication management courses at Unisa vary depending on the level of study. Below is a general guide:

Undergraduate Programs: A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification.
Postgraduate Programs: An undergraduate degree in a related field, with a minimum required GPA.
Short Learning Programs: No formal qualifications are required, although some background knowledge in communication is beneficial.

Make sure to check the specific requirements for your chosen course on Unisa’s website or contact their admissions office for personalized guidance.

How to Apply for Communication Management Courses at Unisa

Applying to study at Unisa is a simple process. Follow these steps:

Visit Unisa’s Website: Navigate to the official Unisa website and create an account.
Select Your Course: Browse the available communication management courses and choose the one that suits your needs.
Upload Documents: You’ll need to submit certified copies of your ID, academic transcripts, and other relevant documents.
Pay the Application Fee: Unisa charges a non-refundable application fee, which you can pay online.
Wait for Feedback: Once your application is reviewed, you’ll be notified of your acceptance status.
Register and Pay Fees: If accepted, proceed to register and pay tuition fees to begin your studies.

Career Opportunities After Studying Communication Management

A qualification in communication management opens doors to a variety of career opportunities. Here are some roles you can pursue:

Public Relations Manager
Corporate Communication Officer
Social Media Strategist
Marketing Coordinator
Media Analyst
Event Planner
Academic Lecturer (for postgraduate graduates)

Final Thoughts

Communication management is an exciting and dynamic field that is essential in today’s interconnected world. By enrolling in one of Unisa’s communication management courses, you’ll acquire the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this growing industry. From undergraduate programs to postgraduate and short learning courses, there’s something for everyone at Unisa.