Public Relations goes global at USC - an Australian university first
20 July, 2004
The University of the Sunshine Coast has introduced a new course
this semester which is understood to be a first for an Australian
University.
The course, "International Communication", covers the theory and
practice of public relations and communications on the global
stage.
The course was initiated by Ken Hickson, a Strategic
Communications Consultant and USC Lecturer, now living on the
Sunshine Coast, who has worked internationally in the
communications industry, covering media and public relations, for
more than 40 years.
"Australians have played a very prominent role in the
communications industry in many parts of the world, as well as at
home," Mr Hickson said.
"So it is surprising that up until now no-one has instituted a
university course that deals largely with the application of public
relations and communications in overseas markets, or the global
approach which is practiced by professionals working in the public
and private sector in Australia and throughout the developed and
developing world," he said.
Mr Hickson has been involved first hand in developing and
managing communications programs throughout the world for
Government agencies and multinational corporations, particularly in
Singapore where he was based for 17 years.
While in Singapore he set up his own public relations
consultancy, which was acquired after 10 years by what is now the
world's largest international communications consultancy, Fleishman
Hillard.
When in Singapore, Mr Hickson was very active in the community
and the communication industry and served for a time as President
of the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS).
He was recently made a Fellow of the Institute, honouring his
past and continuing contribution to the industry.
The new course at the University of Sunshine Coast is an example
of the importance placed on public relations and other
communications studies courses, which have not only attracted a
growing number of local students but increasingly students from
overseas as well.
The Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Professor
Robert Elliot, recognises the value of having experienced industry
professionals leading and lecturing in courses at the
University.
"We have developed a reputation for providing vocation and
industry-relevant courses, particularly in the communications
studies area, and we are fortunate that on the Sunshine Coast we
are able to tap into the expertise and experience of very capable
professionals who have worked in appropriate fields at home and
abroad," Professor Elliot said.
USC students can enhance their degree and gain an international
perspective by studying overseas in one of USC's 40 partner
institutions. Students earn credit directly toward their degree
while overseas.
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Relations Coordinator.