Student Guide

Introduction

About this guide

This guide has been designed for first year Bachelor of Communication, Bachelor of Screen Media and all Communication double degrees. You’ll find details about these degrees as well as links to other information about Western Sydney University that can be hard to find, especially as a new student.

The Starting at Western Sydney University site is also a useful resource. It includes more general information about enrolment, orientation, finding your way around campus and much more.

If you would like to offer feedback on the guide please email First Year Course Advisor, Dr Alison Gill.

Important dates

These are the most important dates for students:

  • Session commences - Start of classes
  • Census date - Cut-off for when you can drop units without being billed
  • Intra session break - Non-attendance week during semester
  • Stuvac - Non-attendance week at end of semester
  • Examinations commence - Start of formal exams
  • Inter session break - Break between semesters
Our Students in class

Getting a student card

Where can I get it?

Once you have enrolled correctly in MySR (Western Central), visit any Student Central to get your student ID card. There is a Student Central office located on each campus. See Campuses and Services for maps.

Student Card

What do I need to bring?

You need to take your student ID number with you as well as photo ID e.g. driver licence or passport.

How long does it take?

It should only take 5 minutes for your card to be prepared. If you are eligible for a travel concession, you can arrange that at the same time as your ID card.

Why do I need a student card?

  • Identify yourself to Staff and Security
  • Access library services (photocopying, printing and borrowing)
  • Access after-hours facilities (computer labs and study hall)
  • Attend exams
  • Claim concessions - See Travel Concessions

School vs. University

University study is very different from School. The biggest difference is that you're treated as an adult. That means you get to take greater control of how you spend your time and what you study. It also means that your education is your responsibility. No one is going to do it for you.

We know there's a lot to get your head around so you might like to take a look at some of the basic differences.

 

A typical week

A typical week at university depends on the mode and program of study, and whether you are full-time or part-time.

A single, first-year unit typically consists of 2-4 hours of formal class contact per week. This can include face-to-face and/or online lectures and tutorials, film screenings, studio sessions, computer lab work and vUWS activities. This does not include the 6-8 hours of additional self-directed study (reading, writing, researching and interacting online) that you are required to do for each of your units. If you have chosen to study some or all units in fully online mode, your formal class time takes place through virtual weekly tutorials, that are typically held around the middle of a day or late afternoon.

Think of it this way, if you are a full-time student then you should expect to treat your time commitment as you would a full-time job – and that's a 40 hour week.

Many of our students juggle time intensive work and/or family commitments in addition to their studies. It's very important to think in the early weeks of University about how you will manage your time so you're prioritising your study while honouring your other roles. Generally we recommend full-time students work no more than 20 hours per week. Ten is ideal. It's important to also make time for socialising, exercise and, of course, sleep.

If you're struggling to manage your time, take advantage of the University's free courses on study planning and time management.

iPad support + resources

Visit the Learning & Teaching iPad Support and Resources site.

iPad

Getting involved

Student Representation and Participation at Western Sydney University
The University recognises the importance of student representation and the value of a dynamic, independent and engaged student organisation.

Student Academic Committee membership
Get involved in the future of Western Sydney University. The Student Academic Committee members have the unique opportunity to shape the future of courses at Western Sydney University.


Getting to Uni

University-wide travel information

Parking on campus

All parked cars must display a valid permit or daily ticket to avoid being fined.

  • Purchase an annual or half year permit - Buy a permit.
  • Buy a one day ‘pay and display’ permit from the ticket machines - See Fees.

Finding your way around

Aerial graphic of map app

How buildings are numbered

It can take some time to get used to how we write building and room locations. These tables show how it all works and will help you find your way around more quickly (and easily).

A location is made up of the campus, building, floor and room number. There may also be the type of room noted on the end.

Example Explanation
BA-23.G.14 (CL03) BA = Bankstown campus
23 = Building number
G = Floor / Level
14 = Room number
CL = Computer Lab 3


Here's some common abbreviations you might come across:

Campus abbreviations Room types
BA = Bankstown
CA = Campbelltown
HA = Hawkesbury
KW = Kingswood
PA = Parramatta
WS = Werrington South		 CL = Computer Lab
LR = Ledcture Room
LT = Lecture Theatre
Penrith Campus

Penrith

Campus Layout

Catching the train / SHUTTLE

  1. Go to Kingswood Station (T1 Western Line) - See Sydney Trains site
  2. a) Catch the free shuttle bus
    Duration of ride: 5-10 minutes
    Location of bus stop: Great Western Highway
    See Shuttle Bus Timetable and Route Tracker

    b) Walk to campus:
    Kingswood Campus - takes about 15 minutes
    Werrington South - takes about 25 minutes

Detailed public transport information

Driving and parking

Maps of parking areas

Parramatta Campus

Parramatta

Campus Layout

Catching the train

  1. Go to Rydalmere Station (T6 Carlingford line) - See Sydney Trains site
  2. a) Catch the free shuttle bus
    Duration of ride: 5-10 minutes#
    Location of bus stop: Rydalmere Station
    See Shuttle Bus Timetable and Route Tracker

    b) Walk to the Parramatta South (main campus) - takes about 5 minutes

Catching the bus

  1. Go to Stop 211611 - Victoria Rd near Rippon Av, Dundas.
  2. Catch the free shuttle bus or walk to campus (10 minutes)

Detailed public transport information

  1. Parramatta Campus Transport Access Guide
  2. Getting to Uni - Western Sydney University Website

Driving and parking

Maps of parking areas

  1. Parramatta South
  2. Parramatta North

Notice: Yellow permits are not valid on Parramatta South. If you have a yellow permit, park on Parramatta North and catch the free shuttle to Parramatta South.


First Year Study

Course management team

Portrait of Dr Rachel Morley

Dr Rachel Morley

Director of Academic Program, Communications
Portrait of Dr Myra Gurney

Dr Myra Gurney

Academic Course Advisor: Bachelor of Communication/ Screen Media
Portrait of Jacki Montgomery

Jacki Montgomery

Academic Course Advisor: Bachelor of Creative Industries
Portrait of Dr Alison Gill

Dr Alison Gill

First Year Course Advisor

Year 1 - Unit Coordinators

Portrait of Jacki Krahmalov

Jacki Montgomery

Advertising:
An Introduction
Portrait of John Greig

John Greig

Advertising:
An Introduction
Portrait of Nicole Bridges

Nicole Bridges

Public Relations:
Theory and Practice
Portrait of Dr Asha Chand

Dr Asha Chand

Introduction to Journalism
Portrait of Maryella Hatfield

Maryella Hatfield

Foundations of Media Arts and Production
Portrait of Wendy Chandler

Wendy Chandler

Foundations of Media Arts and Production
Portrait of Dr Navin Doloswala

Dr Navin Doloswala

Media Cultures and Industries,
Theory and Practice
Portrait of Dr Rachel Morley

Dr Rachel Morley

Writing Ecologies
Portrait of Dr Felicity Castagna

Dr Felicity Castagna

Writing Ecologies
Portrait of Dr Roger Dawkins

Dr Roger Dawkins

Mediated Mobilities
Portrait of Dr Alex Ling

Dr Alex Ling

Understanding Visual Culture
Portrait of Enrico Scotece

Enrico Scotece

Visual Storytelling

Bachelor of Communication

Year 1: Core Units
100706: Advertising: An Introduction
100706: Foundations of Media Arts and Production
100556: Introduction to Journalism
101926: Media Cultures and Industries
100925: Mediated Mobilities
100212: Public Relations: Theory and Practice
101921: Visual Storytelling
101920: Writing Ecologies

Note: Intro Major units are alternated between Parramatta and Penrith campuses each semester. Fully online enrolment is in the Parramatta campus sequence.

Getting ready for class

Advertising: An Introduction

Semesters offered: Autumn and Spring

Unit Coordinator:

  • Ms Jacki Krahmalov - Penrith, Parramatta and Online (Spring)
  • Mr John Greig - Penrith (Autumn)

Weekly Contact:

  • Up to 1 hour of online lecture pods (via vUWS)
  • 1 hour tutorial on campus (Variations will apply for online students)

Readings:

Students will need to purchase the following book:

Felton, G. (2013). Advertising Concept & Copy. (3rd ed.). New Jersey: Prentice Hall Englewood Cliffs from The University Store or download the eBook version. Additional readings to be advised.

Description:

In this unit students gain a grounding in the key areas of advertising and the steps in the advertising process, viz. research, strategy, creative (copywriting and art direction), production, account service, media planning and marketing communication. Students are also introduced to the issues surrounding advertising and its role in society.

Foundations of Media Arts and Production

Semesters offered: Autumn and Spring

Unit Coordinator:

  • Ms Maryella Hatfield - Parramatta and Online (Spring)
  • Ms Wendy Chandler - Penrith (Autumn)

Weekly Contact:

  • Up to 1 hour of online lecture pods (via vUWS)
  • 2 hour screening on campus
  • 1 hour tutorial on campus
    (Variations will apply for online students)

Readings: Readings will be made available for free via the unit vUWS site. Other references such as journal articles, books and DVDS will be available via the library.

Description:

This unit explores creative and independent media arts practices across moving image, audio and participatory forms, and introduces students to fundamental principles of sound and screen production. The unit maps theoretical and practical connections between the creation and study of images and sound across media formats through an integrated theory/practice program focused on the processes through which media artefacts are created. Students learn how to analyse and critically evaluate screen media and also to plan and make simple short works of their own. It introduces students to relevant media arts histories and contexts (with a focus on cinema) in addition to a range of technologies, media practices and production techniques.

Introduction to Journalism

Semesters offered: Autumn and Spring

Unit Coordinator: Dr Asha Chand - Penrith, Parramatta and Online

Weekly Contact:

  • Up to 1 hour of online lecture pods (via vUWS)
  • 2 hour tutorial on campus (Variations will apply for online students who will engage with the lecturer for 1 hour online each week)

Readings:

Students will need to purchase the following textbook:

Burns, S.L. (2013) Understanding Journalism. 2nd ed London, UK:SAGE from from The University Store in addition to free weekly readings and materials from the unit vUWS site. Students are required to engage with local, national and international news everyday.

Description:

This unit introduces students to the fields of journalism and new media, covering the concepts of news values and news research for target audiences. It looks at the role of the journalist and the professional skills of news gathering and news writing. The subject also considers the legal and ethical obstacles and obligations faced by journalists operating in an environment of fast paced communication.

Media Cultures and Industries

Semesters offered: Autumn

Unit Coordinator: Dr Navin Doloswala - Parramatta, Penrith and Online

Weekly Contact:

  • Up to 30 minutes of online lecture pods (via vUWS)
  • 90 minute tutorial on campus (Variations will apply for online students)

Readings: No textbook. Weekly readings will be available for free via the unit vUWS site.

Description:

This unit introduces students to key theories and approaches in communication (semiotics, political economy, policy studies, medium theory, audience studies and game studies) in order to analyse the diversity and richness of media cultures. The unit situates media cultures within historical contexts that register the enormous impact communication technology has played in shaping culture and society. After examining the special properties of broadcast media (e.g. telegraphy, newspapers, radio, cinema and television) and the rise of the modern nation-state and consumer society, the unit attends to the massive transformation of society with the advent of digital media. Across the unit, policy issues will be addressed in order to demonstrate how policy holds substantial implications and effects with respect to media content, economies and culture.

Mediated Mobilities

Semesters offered: Spring

Unit Coordinator: Dr Roger Dawkins - Parramatta, Penrith and Online

Weekly Contact:

  • Up to 30 minutes of online lecture pods (via vUWS)
  • 90 minute tutorial on campus (Variations will apply for online students)
    (The unit will also include 4 x 2 hour film screenings held across the semester)

Readings: No textbook. Weekly readings will be available for free via the unit vUWS site.

Description:

This unit explores the role of social media and 'crowd sourcing' in relation to new forms of knowledge production and new modes of political and cultural organisation. The unit critically examines a range of practices special to digital media technologies and network cultures. These include peer-to-peer file sharing, media piracy, remix cultures, 'free labour', open source software movements, tactical media, viral marketing and collaborative forms of production.

The concepts of 'mediation' and 'mobile privatisation' are developed by considering the interplay between technological forms, cultural practices, urban conditions, institutional forces and policy settings. Case studies will investigate how political activists, advocacy groups, ordinary citizens and corporate actors use social media to advance their interests.

Public Relations: Theory and Practice

Semesters offered: Autumn and Spring

Unit Coordinator:

  • Ms Nicole Bridges - Penrith, Parramatta and Online

Weekly Contact:

  • Up to 40 minutes of online lecture pods (via vUWS)
  • 1 hour tutorial (online or on campus)

Readings: A free eWorkbook will be available for student download via vUWS.

Students will also need to purchase the following book:

Chia, J. & Synnott G. (2012). An Introduction to Public Relations and Communication Management. Melbourne: Oxford University Press from The University Store or download the eBook version.

Description:

This unit introduces the student to the theory and research that serves as the foundation of the practice of public relations. The unit surveys the history of the discipline, the theories on which the discipline is based, and current models of practice.

The unit focuses on understanding how to research and analyse the opinions of organisational publics in order to develop mutually beneficial relationships with those publics. The contemporary practice of public relations requires an understanding of a broad range of social science theory and research and the ability to incorporate that knowledge in the solution of public relations problems.

Visual Storytelling

Semesters offered: Spring

Unit Coordinator: Mr Enrico Scotece - Penrith, Parramatta and Online

Weekly Contact:

  • Up to 1 hour of online lecture pods (via vUWS)
  • 1 hour tutorial on campus

Readings: No textbook. Weekly readings will be available for free via the unit vUWS site.

Description:

Visual storytelling is increasingly being used in a variety of contexts including websites, magazines, advertising, business and public affairs, exhibitions and events and television, often working across a number of platforms at the same time as requiring responsive design approaches for a diversity of viewing experiences. With access to increasing amounts and types of data in the digital information age, communicators in professional fields need to be able to extract meaning for connecting with audiences in creative, dynamic, and emotional ways.

This practical unit explores a range of digital apps, techniques and strategies for visual storytelling across a range of media platforms including iPads and smart phones. Students are encouraged to explore their own creative uses of mobile media through exercises and projects for a range of audiences and professional communication contexts.

Writing Ecologies

Semesters offered: Autumn

Unit Coordinator:

  • Dr Felicity Castagna - Penrith and Online (Autumn)
  • Dr Rachel Morley - Parramatta (Autumn)

Weekly Contact:

  • Up to 30 minutes of online lecture pods (via vUWS)
  • 90 minute tutorial on campus (Variations will apply for online students)

Readings: No textbook. Weekly readings will be available for free via the unit vUWS site.

Description:

This unit introduces students to a set of theories and strategies for exploring digital literacy and the way social and cultural experiences shape and inform the way we read, write and communicate. Grounded in contexts key to Communication Arts practice, the unit explores what it means to be digitally literate, the difference between newer and older reading/writing environments, and the way the digital is re-making contemporary reading/writing practices.

Students will complete a range of analytical tasks that aim to build understanding of the dynamic nature of communications while further developing academic research and writing skills.

Bachelor of Creative Industries

  • Duration: 3 years
  • Total Credit Points (CPS):240
  • Core: 140 cps (incl. 2 x lvl 1 major intro units*)
  • Major: 80 cps (max. 2 x lvl 1 and min. 3 x lvl 3)
  • Electives: 20 cps

OR

  • Core: 140 cps (incl. 2 x lvl 1 sub-major intro units)
  • Sub-Major 2 x 40 cps
  • Sub-Major 2 x 40 cps
  • Electives: 20 cps

Core Units

Year 1: Core Units
101920: Writing Ecologies
200909: Enterprise Law
101926: Media Cultures and Industries
Intro Major 1*
102421: Data, Mediation, Power
200912: Enterprise Leadership
101921: Visual Storytelling
Alt. Intro Major 1*

* These core units are level one units to be selected from the pool of introductory major units. This is an opportunity for students to experience units from 2 majors to best select that major they wish to pursue, alternatively these can both serve as the foundation units for 2 sub-majors.

Creative Industries Majors Introductory Unit
M1121: Advertising 100706: Advertising: An Introduction
M1113: Creative Writing 102436: Creative Writing: The Imaginative Life
M1052: Cultural and Social Analysis 100897: Everyday Life
M1109: Digital Cultures 102263: Image Design 101922: Web & Time-based Design
M1053: English 101907: Introduction to Literary Studies
M2511: Enterprise Innovation 200585: Organisational Behaviour
M1116: Graphic Design 102263: Image Design 101922: Web & Time-based Design
M1067: Journalism 100556: Introduction to Journalism
M2515: Law and the Creative Industries 200977: Fundamental of Australian Law
M1094: Media Arts Production 101927: Foundations of Media Arts and Production
M1117: Music 101526: Introduction to Sound Technologies
M1122: Public Relations 100212: Public Relations: Theory and Practice

Bachelor of Screen Media (Arts and Production)

The B. Screen Media (Arts and Production) offers studies in a range of screen media skills and production practice fields. These include media, communications and arts as well as practical studies in media arts production, digital journalism, with study options also including sound technology and web and motion design.

In first year, students enrol into 6 of the B. Communication units, including the Intro Majors for Media Arts production and journalism. They also enrol into the foundation units for the Cultural and Social Analysis sub major.

Year 1: Core Units
100879: Everyday Life
100556: Introduction to Journalism
100706: Foundations of Media Arts and Production
101926: Media Cultures and Industries
100925: Mediated Mobilities
101979: Understanding Visual Culture
101921: Visual Storytelling
101920: Writing Ecologies

Terms you should know

As you move through your unit and course materials you will encounter lots of terms. If you encounter one you don’t understand, look it up in the Online Glossary. As a starting point, try to familiarise yourself with the following:

Unit Outline

The unit details in summary.

Learning Guide

The week-by-week plan plus assessment details and timelines. You need to print or download copies of these and refer to them regularly.

Assessment Task

There are many forms of assessment tasks – these include written essays, reports, quizzes, creative writing, practical work such as photography or mockups of creative concepts, plus class presentations. Some tasks will involve group work as well as individual work. For every unit there is a detailed outline of the set tasks in the Learning Guide.

Assessment Criteria

Each task has specific criteria for how you will be assessed. These are linked to the unit learning outcomes. Details are in the unit Learning Guide.

Extension of Time to Submit

If you are having difficulty with any of your assessment tasks then you need to discuss this with your tutor as soon as possible. Where we see a genuine need, we will generally provide an extension of time to submit. This will be negotiated with you. Extensions are not automatic, and there is a form to complete that needs to be approved by your Unit Coordinator.
Download the Request for Extension form.

Special Consideration

If you are experiencing major difficulties with your studies due to outside factors you can apply for Special Consideration. This could lead to a longer extension, enabling you to complete your work. Visit Western Central eForms.

Western Sydney University Graduate Attributes

These are what you will take away from your studies at UWS.

  1. Commands multiple skills and literacies to enable adaptable lifelong learning.
  2. Demonstrates knowledge of indigenous Australia through cultural competency and professional capacity.
  3. Demonstrates comprehensive, coherent and connected knowledge.
  4. Applies knowledge through intellectual inquiry in professional or applied contexts.
  5. Brings knowledge to life through responsible engagement and appreciation of diversity in an evolving world.

Unit Learning Outcomes

Each unit has specific learning outcomes that relate to the course attributes.

Course Attributes

These are the focus areas for the communication program at Western Sydney University:

  1. Commands a full range of skills and literacies independently and collaboratively by means of self-directed study across communication and media generally and in the context of vocational specialisation.
  2. Demonstrates an understanding of and sensitivity to cultural and intercultural issues, especially those of Indigenous Australians.
  3. Demonstrates comprehensive, coherent and connected knowledge of systems and technologies through contemporary and emergent communication.
  4. Applies knowledge through intellectual inquiry in the professional or applied environment of communication industries and practice.
  5. Brings knowledge to life through ethical as well as responsible engagement and appreciation of diversity in an evolving world.

Student Portals

Managing your units

How do I enrol in a unit?

Use Western Central (MyC3)

For more information see Adding, dropping and changing units.

How do I register for tutorials?

Use the Allocate+ link in Western Central (MyC3)

For more information see Tutorial Registration

Western Sydney University website

The website is arranged so that the most frequently visited links are at the top:

vUWS

What is it?

vUWS is a website that connects tutors and students. Your tutor will use it to:

  • post materials
  • make announcements
  • collect and mark assignments
  • provide marks and feedback

It is critical that you access vUWS weekly or as advised by your Unit Coordinator or tutor.

Why do I need to access vUWS?

  • access unit information (Unit Outlines and Learning Guides)
  • access recorded lectures and lecture slides
  • take tests and submit assessment tasks
  • view your marks and feedback
  • communicate with other students
  • provide unit feedback

Where can I get help with vUWS?

Your tutor should be able to help you with basic issues. The IT Service Desk is responsible for all other vUWS support enquiries.


As You Progress

Grading - How does it work?

Students will receive a final mark and grade in relation to how well they have performed against the assessment criteria and standards outlined in the Learning Guide for that unit.

Grade Mark
High Distinction (HD) 85-100
Distinction (D) 75-84
Credit (C) 65-74
Pass (P) 50-64
Fail (F) 0-49

Your GPA

What is it?

The Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) measures the academic performance of individual students in order to acknowledge excellence and determine recipients of Excellence Awards. The cumulative GPA will be calculated over the duration of a student's enrolment in a course.

If your GPA is high at the end of your course then you may be invited to enrol in a Masters of Research program.

 

How is the GPA calculated?

Each final grade is awarded a numerical value as shown below:

Grade Numerical Value
High Distinction (HD) 7
Distinction (D) 6
Credit (C) 5
Pass (P) 4
Fail (F), Fail Discontinued (E), Unsatisfactory (U), Absent Fail (AF), Practicum Fail (PF) and Compulsory Fail (CF). 0

The formula for calculating the GPA is:

GPA = The sum of
( credit points for the same specific unit
x
grade points for specific unit )
/
total number of credit points attempted

Bachelor of Communication 2nd year

The main difference between first and second year is the introduction of Majors and elective units.

Core Units

Year 2
101928: Media Law and Ethics
101929: Professional Writing and Editing
Year 3
101930: Communication Research Project
101931: Media Memory

Majors

The Bachelor of Communication degree has four Majors for students to select: Advertising, Journalism, Media Arts Production and Public Relations. You are required to complete a minimum of 80 credit points from the Major unit list.

Advertising Major
102056: Communication Strategies
100552: Advertising Creative
101941: Account and Client Management
101034: Advertising Media
102058: Digital and Social Media
102055: Communication Campaigns
101173: Internship
Journalism Major
102062: News Reporting
102061: Feature Writing
102017: Journalism Research and Investigation
100953: Photo Journalism
102057: Digital Journalism Production
101244: News Teams and Newsroom Cultures
101173: Internship *
101939: Transmedia Production *

* Please note: Journalism and Media Arts Production majors can choose between 101173 Internship and 101939 Transmedia Production.

Public Relations Major
102056: Communication Strategies
101940: Events Management
101941: Account and Client Management
102064: Issues, Risk and Crisis Communication
102058: Digital and Social Media
102055: Communication Campaigns
101173: Internship
Media Arts Production Major
102406: Screen and Sound Production 1
102407: Screen and Sound Production 2
101953: Documentary Media
102317: Visual Effects
101938: Media Arts Project
101173: Internship *
101939: Transmedia Production *

* Please note: Journalism and Media Arts Production majors can choose between 101173 Internship and 101939 Transmedia Production.

Elective Units

Elective units can be selected from any Western Sydney University offering provided you meet the prerequisites. You are not limited to units offered by the School of Humanities and Communication Arts and there is no set list of elective units to choose from. You can refine your search for elective units by altering the settings in 'Unit Search' in the student handbook (by selecting what School, Session, Level, Campus etc. you would like to study your elective units from). Go to Unit Search.

Alternatively, instead of studying 4 elective units, you may choose to study a sub-major instead (which is also made up of four units), and study 4 units from that sub-major unit list.

4 Elective Units or Sub-Major
Elective or sub-major unit
Elective or sub-major unit
Elective or sub-major unit
Elective or sub-major unit

Further information will be made available at an information session held in Spring semester.

Bachelor of Creative Industries 2nd Year

Year 2
101928: Media Law and Ethics
Major 1 or Sub-Major A1
Major 2 of Sub-Major A2
Elective
200910: Financing Enterprises
Major 3 of Sub-Major A3
Major 4 of Sub-Major A4
Creative TEAMS 1
Year 3
200911: Enterprise, Innovation and Markets
Major 5 or Sub-Major A5
Major 6 of Sub-Major B2
Creative TEAMS 2
Professional or Creative Internship
Major 7 of Sub-Major B3
Major 8 of Sub-Major B4
Elective

Bachelor of Screen Media (Arts and Production) 2nd year

In Year 2, students undertake a major in Media Arts Production that covers a variety of digital platform production practices including short film, documentary, experimental, transmedia and TV.

The interdisciplinary submajor in Cultural and Social Analysis offers contemporary debates and methodologies in cultural studies and social theory, with studies include popular culture, cinema studies, everyday urban life, cultural and social impacts of scientific theories and new technologies and multiculturalism. Students will enrol into specific units offered for the CSA major in each semester.

Students also need to select from a set of alternate electives across years 2 and 3 of their course. These are specified in the table below.

Core Units

Year 2
101928: Media Law and Ethics
102406: Screen and Sound Production 1
101953: Documentary Media
102407: Screen and Sound Production 2
102317: Visual Effects
One Cultural and Social Analysis sub major Level 2 or 3 unit
Year 3
102057: Digital Journalism Production
102408: TV Production 1
101931: Media Memory
102409: TV Production 2

Elective Units

Year 2 - Elective Units
(choose one)
102062: News Reporting
102061: Feature Writing
101538: Introduction to Sound Technologies
102266: Researching the Visual
102017: Journalism: Research and Investigation
100953: Photo Journalism
101538: Sound Synthesis and the Sound Environment
101922: Web and Time-based Design
Year 3 - Elective Units
101938: Media Arts Project
101173: Internship
Cultural and Social Analysis Sub Major
Understanding Visual Culture
Everyday Life
Choose from 2 units on offer in the semester
1 in year 2 Spring
1 in year 3 Spring

Academic Literacy

Getting help with your studies

Making the transition from high-school to university or returning to study after a period of absence can be daunting. If you struggle with essays and assignments (structure, analysis, written expression), referencing or reading at the level required at university, then Western Sydney University can help you.

The Learning and Teaching Unit offers a range of face-to-face and online workshops. Many of these are run in the first few weeks of semester and you are encouraged to look over the program now so you can book into a class and be prepared for what lies ahead.

The most useful resources for students are:

You should also attend one of the many Library tours which are held on campus at the beginning of every semester.

Week 2: Academic Literacy Week

In addition, we also run a compulsory academic literacy skills program for first year students. Known as Academic Literacy Week, the program is held during class time in week 2 of Autumn Semester. All classes will examine one of four key academic literacy competencies:

  • Critical Reading and Thinking
  • Academic Writing
  • Professional Communication
  • Referencing and Using the Library

Academic Literacy Site for Communication and Screen Media students

All students are encouraged to keep the Academic Literacy site handy for quick reference. This is an excellent go-to guide for all students and will include materials and resources referenced during Academic Literacy Week.

B. Screen Media (Arts and Production) students will take part in the program through enrolment into 3 of the core Communication units involved.


Getting Help

Finding the Right Person

Unit related matters

Most issues students face tend to be unit related. Check the Unit Outline for the unit concerned. It will have the contact details for the Unit Coordinator and tutors teaching that unit. (As a side note, make sure you note your tutor's name at the beginning of the semester. It surprises academics how often students don't know the name of the person leading their class.)

Settling in/First year experience

For general issues relating to study, settling in or for more information about university procedures, contact your First Year Course Advisor (Dr Alison Gill).

Course related matters

For matters relating to transferring degrees, Advanced Standing and other course matters contact the Academic Course Advisor for your degree. (Students should make an appointment with Dr Milissa Deitz via EnquiriesHCA@westernsydney.edu.au).

Serious personal issues affecting your study

You should contact either your First Year Course Advisor or the Academic Course Advisor and they will direct you to the most appropriate person. This may be the Director of Academic Program for your degree.

School administrative related issues

If you require a form they are available at Student Forms.

Otherwise, visit or phone your Campus Administration Office.

Campus Building Phone
Parramatta (South) EQ.G.03 (02) 9685 9295
Penrith (Kingswood) C.G (02) 9852 2906
Penrith (Werrington South) BB.G.22 (02) 4736 5540

Alternatively, enquiries can be emailed to EnquiriesHCA@westernsydney.edu.au

University administrative related issues

Call the Student Central Infoline (1300 668 370) or email studentcentral@westernsydney.edu.au.

Contact Campus Safety and Security

See the Campus Safety and Security site.

  • In an emergency, call 000 for ambulance, police and fire 24 hours a day.
  • For non-emergencies, call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
  • 24 hour security hotline - 0414 240 458
  • First aid emergencies - 02 4736 0300 (internal extension 2300)
Campus Building Phone
Parramatta (South) EA (02) 9685 9169
Penrith (Werrington South) K (02) 4736 0431 (ext. 2431)

Useful forms

Paper-based forms

These are forms you print, complete and submit:

eForms - Login Here

These are forms you complete online using the link above:

Student support services

See the Student Support Services site.

Mature Age Student Support

A mature age student is any student that is not a current school leaver. If you were not completing Year 12 when you applied to study at Western Sydney University you are considered a mature age student.

Counselling Service

The Western Sydney University Counselling Service is here to help you with any issues that might be affecting your study. If you're not sure that university is for you, a counsellor may be able to offer advice and support to help you improve your study skills. Counselling is free and strictly confidential.

eCounselling Service

eCounselling is a confidential online service that allows you to ask a counsellor questions from the comfort and privacy of your own computer. eCounselling provides support for issues affecting students’ study or wellbeing. The answers given are of a general nature only.

Disability Service

The Disability Service is a team of professional Disability Advisors and trained educational support staff. They support and assist future and current students with disabilities and chronic health conditions. The service is available to all Western Sydney University students.

Student Welfare

The Student Welfare Service has professionally trained staff to help you work through the unexpected problems that sometimes catch you by surprise.

Chaplaincy

The chaplaincy team offers a caring presence to all staff and students at the University; encouraging spirituality, offering hospitality and creating community. They do this by embracing diversity, encouraging conversation and respecting similarities and differences. Their role is to encourage a spiritual life within the University.

Equity and Diversity Unit

Equity and Diversity work in partnership with staff, students and the wider community to promote inclusive practices across the University.

Living and Studying in Australia

Western Sydney University has a rich culturally and linguistically diverse student population. We have a large number of international students and students who have recently migrated to Australia. Adjusting to life and study in Australia may be challenging and mean having to make some changes to your life. This may also include changes to the way you study as well as having to study in a different language.

Support for Students Studying Online

The University has dedicated services to assist online students with administrative, social and academic planning needs.

Facilities and Discounts

From January 2014, Western Sydney University Students will be able to access a range of discounts on a variety of products and services. All you need is a valid Student ID to access vUWS and/or a valid student ID card. There are over 50 exciting offers.

Skills for success

See the Skills for Success at Western Sydney University site.

The Study, Money & Life Skills vUWS site will help increase your learning potential, develop personal awareness and assist with skills to manage your finances. It provides helpful information and resources for all students.


The Library

It's important to visit the Library and make it part of your regular study routine.

If you're an online student or you're working remotely you'll find a comprehensive array of resources which have been designed to support your learning and your broader academic literacy skills.

The libraries offer personal assistance at each on-campus location as well as dedicated support to those accessing the Library remotely.

If you're studying at Werrington South, you can take the shuttle bus to Kingswood to the University's new state-of-the-art facility.

Western Sydney University Library

The University's campus libraries are located at the Bankstown, Blacktown, Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta and Penrith (Kingswood) campuses. Current students and staff have access to an extensive range of services including both print and electronic resources via the Western Sydney University campus libraries and webpage.

The Western Sydney Library offers both personal assistance in the campus libraries and assistance for those accessing the Library remotely.

Western Sydney University Library opening hours and study hall hours are available on the Library website.

Kingswood library facade

New to the Library

New to the Library is a quick guide that points to key information to help when starting out. 'Know Now' links to information to consider as you begin University, 'Know Later' links to items that will assist down the track. To get started look at: Western Sydney Library - New to the Library.

More information on borrowing conditions are available at:
Western Sydney Library - Borrowing and Renewing

Referencing and Citation

When writing assignments, reports, research papers or theses, you must acknowledge quotations, information and ideas taken from other authors through a bibliography or list of references.

The Library has developed guides for the citation styles most commonly used within the University. I:Cite will provide quick access to examples for referencing, citation and acknowledgement.

Launch the I:Cite Tool

Study Facilities

Each Western Sydney University campus library offers zoned quiet and silent study areas and a mix of fixed computers aligned with power and wireless coverage which cater for differing study preferences. There are also group study rooms for collaborating on projects, studying with other students and for practicing presentations. These rooms are bookable online by Western Sydney University students with a current WesternAccount.

See Western Sydney Library - Group Study Room Bookings

Online Tutorials

The Library has developed a formal information literacy program which incorporates both online and face-to-face tutorials. Tutorial Central provides access to online tutorials developed by the Library, that introduce information literacy concepts at: Western Sydney Library - Online Tutorials.

Academic Literacy Tutors

Academic Literacy Tutors are available to provide help with question analysis, critical analysis, essay structures and academic writing style. Ask Library staff to point out the tutor within the Library. Campus availability, dates and times will be available on the Library website.

Help

Information Central is a centralised service for Library enquiries via phone, email or Online Librarian.

See Frequently Asked Questions

Library Tours

Library tours provide an introduction to Library services and resources for new undergraduate and postgraduate students. No bookings necessary and occur during O week and week 1.

For more details of times please see:
Western Sydney Library - Training and Support