The Communication in Leadership major looks at the vital role of communication in effective and ethical leadership. The major explores communication within leadership positions across a broad range of organisations and fields. These include business, government, politics, culture, community and non-profit organisations.

You will learn about theories of leadership communication, analyse real-world case studies, and develop valuable practical and professional skills essential for leadership roles. These include conflict resolution, negotiation, listening, and the development of coherent communication strategies.

Communication is a pivotal component of good leadership, and strong communication skills are highly sought-after in today's employment market. The need for effective, empathetic and inclusive leadership in today's society is more significant than ever. This major will equip you with the skills necessary to become an effective communicator who can succeed in leadership roles by bringing people together to address challenges, develop creative solutions, and work towards common goals.

The skills developed, and the themes studied in this major include:

• Communication styles
• Inclusivity
• Ethical persuasion
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Negotiation and conflict resolution
• Leading through change
• Crisis communications
• Digital leadership
• Communication strategy development

Some possible careers include:

• Head of Communications
• Content marketing strategist

Communication in Leadership is a major in the Bachelor of Communication. You will need to pass at least 135 points (nine courses) towards the major.

You must pass the following courses as part of your major (based on 2026 regulations; please note that requirements may vary depending on your regulations year):

• Two courses: COMMS 214, 319
• One course from: COMMS 104, GENDER 101, POLITICS 106, SOCIOL 100
• Two courses from: COMMS 213, INNOVENT 203, MEDIA 238, either MGMT 211 or MGMT 223
• Three courses from: COMMS 314, 315, MĀORI 335, MEDIA 338, either MGMT 304 or MGMT 314, POLITICS 345

If you are a new first-year student who starts the programme in Semester One 2026, please find below the enrolment guide for your information.

Explore the available courses you can take in 2026. Students normally take Stage I courses in their first year, Stage II in their second, and Stage III in their third.

Core Courses:

Courses for the Communication in Leadership Major Requirements:

Please note:

1. SCIGEN 101 is taught by the Faculty of Science and may be subject to changes at their discretion.

2. INNOVENT and MGMT courses are taught by the Faculty of Business and Economics and may be subject to changes at their discretion.

3. Any offered core or major course listed above can meet the relevant programme requirements. The faculty will apply a programme concession if needed to ensure recognition.

Our friendly Student Hub staff will provide you with advice on planning your degree and enrolling in your courses.

If you would like to find out more about studying Communication and Social Change, you can contact our Undergraduate Adviser.

Learn more about BC career paths and opportunities online. See Graduate Careers.

Explore our industry placements and Stage III internship course.

Associate Professor Luke Goode and Dr Bingjuan Xiong talk about the BC and what students can look forward to studying.

Need help and advice? Reach out to us at bc@auckland.ac.nz.