Major overview
Digital technologies are transforming the way we connect and communicate with the world around us.
In this major, you'll explore the social, cultural and political impact of the internet, including digital platforms, social media and artificial intelligence (AI).
You'll develop cutting-edge digital media knowledge and build flexible communication skills for a digital world shaped by online platforms and artificial intelligence (AI).
You'll learn to create, maintain and manage online communications across websites and publishing platforms; and develop expertise in online collaboration, content creation and community management.
You’ll also learn how to mobilise digital and social media to promote products, causes and interests.
Digital and Social Media is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You can create a degree that suits your career goals by enhancing your studies with a second major.
You can also study Digital and Social Media as a double degree with Law or with various majors in Commerce, Innovation and Science.
This course can also be studied within the Web Media specialisation of the Bachelor of Communications.
Why study at Curtin?
Broad career options
This course has an open structure, giving you choices between multiple elective units, so you can gain the skills and knowledge to suit your goals.
Stay ahead of the digital curve
With more than 25 years of experience, Curtin is a pioneer in online communication education in Australia. You'll explore emerging technologies such as AI and the evolving impact of the internet on society and culture.
#1 in WA
Curtin ranks first in WA for Communication and Media Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026)
How to study this major
You can study this major as part of any of the degrees below. A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. The units may vary depending on the degree you choose.
Career outcomes
Graduates have the career-ready skills for diverse roles in digital and social media; and strategy, content and policy.
Career examples
- Influencer / content creator
- Web designer / developer
- Social media coordinator
- Web communications manager
- Digital producer / strategist
- Policymaker / advisor
Industries
- Media and communications
- Advertising and marketing
- Research and policy
- Digital safety
- Non-profit and community sector
- Government and public service
Why study at Curtin?
Broad career options
This course has an open structure, giving you choices between multiple elective units, so you can gain the skills and knowledge to suit your goals.
Stay ahead of the digital curve
With more than 25 years of experience, Curtin is a pioneer in online communication education in Australia. You'll explore emerging technologies such as AI and the evolving impact of the internet on society and culture.
#1 in WA
Curtin ranks first in WA for Communication and Media Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026)
Hear from our students
"While I was finishing the last assignments for my degree, I started working for Perenti, a mining services company with more than 8000 employees as a Communications Advisor. I used my Digital and Social Media studies to roll out Workplace by Meta (Facebook for grownups, as the staff call it) to all Australian frontline employees who don’t have access to emails or intranet. This is about 70% of our workforce based on mine sites who now have their own digital communities to share everything from rosters to pictures of their pets. "
MJ Rowan
Bachelor of Arts (Digital and Social Media, and Professional Writing and Publishing)
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Major structure
What you'll learn
Our units cover web-based media and content creation; platformed communications; AI and society; everyday life in digital cultures; digital identity and self-branding; entertainment and games; digital economies; online activism and social movements; power and politics in the digital era; and theories of the role of technology in social change.
You'll complete activities and assessments using a range of platforms and tools, including X, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and ChatGPT. You will create content for different online platforms and learn how to use them in effective ways.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this major either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.
For full entry requirements, fees and information for international students, visit the course page.
Explore more
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