The power to influence: new degree for change-makers

'In the current climate, school leavers are gravitating towards degrees that equip them with high-demand, adaptable skills,' explains Associate Professor Zim Nwokora, convener of this unique double degree.

'When you think of any issue facing the world today, finding practical solutions demands looking at it through different disciplinary lenses. The environment is an example. To make any movement towards sustainable, actionable change on a large scale requires an understanding of economic impact, societal preferences, policy, and how to effectively communicate it to the broader public.’

That is what this double degree – the first of its kind in Australia – offers. Students get the best of both worlds: the concentrated disciplinary focus of politics, philosophy and economics, plus the breadth and versatility of communication. There is a value-add for both degrees; they complement each other and provide a powerful foundation for understanding and responding to the many issues facing the world.

Assoc Prof Nwokora says the ability to think through problems critically and ethically, and to communicate persuasively and influence debate, has become more important than ever.  ‘Graduates of Deakin’s new offering will be well-placed for career success, whatever direction they pursue.’

Why consider the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics/Bachelor of Communication double degree? If you’re keen on adding an edge to your degree and getting ‘more bang for your higher education buck’, then this is it. You finish with two degrees instead of one and gain a greater depth and breadth of skills in areas such as digital media, advertising, communications strategy, economic policy, ethical problem-solving, systems of government and more.

With a grounding in four highly respected disciplines, combined with high-level, practical communications skills, you will turbocharge your employment prospects. On graduation, you will be qualified for roles at the intersection of these disciplines, such as a public relations specialist, speech writer, political adviser and more.

The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics/Bachelor of Communication is also a suitable program for a range of less obvious career directions, such as corporate social responsibility, event management, community advocacy and sustainability.

If you don’t yet know what career you’d like to pursue, this course pairing can help you identify your interests. You will graduate with versatile, transferrable skills and a better idea of what you enjoy. Win-win!

As a student, you will have access to all of Deakin’s world-class facilities, including Deakin Studios – a virtual production, TV, film and animation studio. You will also benefit from a range of internships, industry placements, global experiential learning programs and collaborative projects.

If you like the idea of acquiring world-relevant knowledge applicable in a wide range of settings, the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics/Bachelor of Communication is for you. Assoc Prof Nwokora says real-world relevance makes the double degree appealing for students wanting to keep their career options open.

‘The intersection between communications, politics and policy is key – as these are so crucial in today’s workforce. Whether it’s government, politics, media, business or the not-for-profit sector, employers are increasingly recognising the value of graduates who have knowledge and skills in these areas.’

Cameron Jenyns, a lecturer in communication, agrees. ‘The complexity of today’s media and information landscape is creating challenges across all sectors. Graduates with specialised communications expertise and skills – combined with political and economics knowledge and the underpinning philosophies – have a very marketable skill set. They are uniquely prepared for a wide range of roles in today’s dynamic job market.’

Resource management, opinion shaping, responding to social justice issues and ethical leadership are just some of the areas covered in the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics/Bachelor of Communication. You will also develop specialist skills in advertising, digital and social media, journalism or public relations.

Current Deakin Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics student Martin Jung says his interest was immediately piqued when he heard about the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics and Bachelor of Communication pairing.

‘I was originally doing a Bachelor of Arts, but then decided I wanted the more focused program offered in PPE. When I heard about the double degree I could immediately see the benefits. The communication degree adds value by offering breadth, and the PPE degree offers concentrated specialist knowledge. The combination is interesting, highly relevant to many roles, and will be a point of difference on my CV when applying for jobs.’

Martin hopes to pursue a career related to sustainability and climate change. ‘I’m interested in how businesses adapt to these challenges and market themselves to an informed, globally aware generation. In the long term, I can see myself in a public relations or strategic communications role that works around these big picture issues.’

Like the idea of a double degree that combines a highly relevant foundation in politics, philosophy and economics, plus communication skills to make an impact in a changing world?

Learn more about Deakin’s new Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics/Bachelor of Communication double degree.