Diploma in Communication – DipC

An introduction to producing digital media content using everyday and consumer-grade equipment. Material taught includes recording clear audio and video, principles and practices of basic editing, and the preparation of digital content to reach target audiences.

This course develops creative communication skills for fact-based communication, emphasising both craft and audience engagement. Students will learn craft-based skills and techniques that allow them to express themselves in writing for diverse audiences and professional environments.

An introduction to the relationship between media and society. Particular attention will be paid to media representations, media users/audiences, media technologies, the political economy of media, and the local and global contexts in which media are situated.

This course examines how language creates meaning in communication across social and cultural contexts. We explore how language choices shape identity, relationships, persuasion, and power in everyday and professional communication. The course develops students’ ability to analyse communication across audiences, platforms, and cultural frameworks, with particular attention to intercultural communication and the linguistic dynamics of Aotearoa New Zealand.

This course explores foundational communication theories through immersive practice in creative, strategic, relational, and community-based contexts. Students investigate how communication constructs meaning, navigates power, strengthens relationships, and catalyses transformative change in order to foster culturally responsive, ethical and transformative communication practices.

This course explores communication through Indigenous, Global South, and marginalised perspectives, emphasising culture-centred and pluriversal approaches, and challenging dominant narratives. Through community-engaged projects and workshops, students will engage in deep listening, ethical collaboration, and imaginative storytelling.

An introduction to the genre of audio storytelling with podcasts. Students will analyse the storytelling techniques employed in the narrative nonfiction podcast genre and use these techniques in the production of their own podcast episode.

An introduction to the nature and practice of media writing for a range of traditional and digital formats.

An introduction to the role and function of contemporary news media, with special attention to the role of the journalist in society, the diversity of journalism cultures and basic journalism skills.

This course explores communication within families and its impact on identity, as well as how families handle challenging conversations and transitions. It also encourages critical thinking about the limitations of traditional research that has focused on white, straight, cis families.

This course introduces creative communication through the study of creative practice and the making of original works of writing and performance. The course builds an understanding of written and physical storytelling in cultural contexts, supporting students to develop dramatic ideas that express social issues clearly and confidently.