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.
| 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 - 2026
Indicative Year - 2025
Indicative Year - 2024
Indicative Year - 2023
Indicative Year - 2022
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Admission Codes
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Domestic Students Tertiary Admission Centre Codes (TAC) Codes |
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International Students CRICOS Codes |
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.
Domestic Availability
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Term 2 - 2026
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Term 1 - 2026
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Term 2 - 2025
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Term 1 - 2025
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Term 2 - 2024
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Term 1 - 2024
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Term 3 - 2023
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Term 2 - 2023On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.
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Term 1 - 2023On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.
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Term 3 - 2022
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Term 2 - 2022
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Term 1 - 2022
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Term 2 - 2021
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Term 1 - 2021
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Term 2 - 2020
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Term 1 - 2020
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Term 2 - 2019
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Term 1 - 2019
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Term 2 - 2018
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Term 1 - 2018
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Term 2 - 2017
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Term 1 - 2017
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Term 2 - 2016
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Term 1 - 2016
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Term 2 - 2015
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Term 1 - 2015
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Term 2 - 2014
International Availability
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Term 2 - 2026
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Term 1 - 2026
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Term 2 - 2025
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Term 1 - 2025
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Term 2 - 2024
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Term 1 - 2024
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Term 3 - 2023
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Term 2 - 2023On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.
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Term 1 - 2023On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.
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Term 3 - 2022
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Term 2 - 2022
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Term 1 - 2022
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Term 2 - 2021
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Term 1 - 2021
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Term 2 - 2020
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Term 1 - 2020
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Term 2 - 2019
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Term 1 - 2019
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Term 2 - 2018
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Term 1 - 2018
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Term 2 - 2017
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Term 1 - 2017
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Term 2 - 2016
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Term 1 - 2016
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Term 2 - 2015
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Term 1 - 2015
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Term 2 - 2014
| Rank Threshold | SR 60 | ATAR 60 |
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 documentation confirming completion of:
- A secondary qualification (Year 11 and 12, or equivalent); or
- An Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Certificate IV qualification, 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, which will meet the English proficiency.
If you are an international student, additional requirements may apply, please visit international student information for more details.
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) iBT - requires 75 or better overall and no score less than 17; 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.
Each student will be assessed individually.
Not applicable
Awards and Accreditation
| Interim Awards | CC25 - Diploma of Digital Media CC26 - Associate Degree of Digital Media |
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| Exit Awards | CC25 - Diploma of Digital Media CC26 - Associate Degree of Digital Media |
| Accreditation |
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Residential School Requirements
No Residential School for this course.
Practicum/Work Placement
| DGTL28004 - 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. |
| DGTL28002 - Students work in a team to complete a real-world digital media project for an authentic client in a supportive, scaffolded learning environment over a period of two terms. |
| DGTL28003 - Students work in a team to complete a real-world digital media project for an authentic client in a supportive, scaffolded learning environment over a period of two terms. |
Previous and Current Enrolments
| Year | Number of Students |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 127 |
| 2024 | 164 |
| 2023 | 182 |
| 2022 | 224 |
| 2021 | 267 |
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.
Examples are:
- Complying with academic and non-academic misconduct policies and procedures such as CQUniversity’s Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure, Student Conduct Policy and Procedure, and Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
- Demonstrating honesty and integrity in academic and professional practice.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- 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 | |||||||
- Complete the core structure
- Complete 3 minors
| Number of units: 12 | Total credit points: 72 |
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Core Level 1 Units
| Available units | ||
|---|---|---|
| Students must complete the following compulsory units: | ||
| MMST11009 | Digital Video and Audio | |
| MMST11010 | Illustration and Visualisation | |
| DGTL11005 | Web Design | |
| BUSN11016 | Introduction to Study and Professional Practice | |
| MMST11003 | Visual Design Fundamentals | |
| DGTL11001 | Foundations of Animation | |
| DGTL11003 | User Experience Design | |
| DGTL11006 | Coding Fundamentals | |
Core Level 3 Units
| Available units | ||
|---|---|---|
| Students must complete the following compulsory units: | ||
| DGTL28001 | Business of Digital Innovation | |
| DGTL28002 | Collaborative Digital Media Project Part A | |
| DGTL28003 | Collaborative Digital Media Project Part B | |
| DGTL28004 | Digital Media Project | |
| Number of units: 4 | Total credit points: 24 |
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| Available units | ||
|---|---|---|
| Students must complete the following compulsory units: | ||
| DGTL12012 | Motion Graphics and Visual Effects | |
| MMST12019 | 3D Computer Graphics | |
| DGTL12016 | 3D Character Animation | |
| DGTL13009 | 3D Character Design | |
| Number of units: 4 | Total credit points: 24 |
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| Available units | ||
|---|---|---|
| Students must complete the following compulsory units: | ||
| DGTL12004 | Print Design | |
| DGTL12005 | Contemporary Photomedia | |
| DGTL12006 | Visual Communication Design | |
| DGTL13006 | Social Media Management | |
| Number of units: 4 | Total credit points: 24 |
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| Available units | ||
|---|---|---|
| Students must complete the following compulsory units: | ||
| MMST12009 | Web Application Development | |
| MMST12017 | Game Design | |
| DGTL12008 | Mobile Application Development | |
| DGTL13007 | Game Development | |
| Number of units: 4 | Total credit points: 24 |
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The Liberal Studies minor may be used to support credit transfers, pathways, international study experiences and transition arrangements. Students cannot self-enrol in the Liberal Studies minor. Please contact Course Management for further information about this minor
| Number of units: 4 | Total credit points: 24 |
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| 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 | |
Credit Transfer
If you have studied previously, you might be eligible to receive credit for prior learning. Students are assessed for credit on an individual basis and are required to nominate the CQUniversity units they wish to be considered for exemption from. Applying for credit involves supplying documented evidence that your prior learning is equivalent to the expected learning outcomes of one or more units of study. There are limits to the maximum amount of credit that may be granted towards a course. Study that was completed more than 10 years ago is not considered for credit transfer. For information about how to apply for credit, please search the CQUniversity website for "prior learning".
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. Details are normally provided in the relevant unit profile. On-campus students may use the computer hardware, software and production equipment that is available at their local campus.
Course Planner
Students in this course should complete a course planner to help with the organisation of their unit enrolments. When preparing a course planner 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 course planner by contacting the Course Management team. For more information, please search the CQUniversity website for "course planners".
Exit and Interim Awards
The Bachelor of Digital Media has two optional exit / interim awards: a Diploma of Digital Media (8 units; 48 credit points) and an Associate Degree of Digital Media (16 units; 96 credit points).
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 the Course Management team.
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. 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 the Course Management team.
On-Campus Classes
On-campus classes with small enrolments may be taught by cross-campus video-conference rather than face-to-face delivery.