History of IC
The Department of International Communication (IC) offers cutting edge degree programs for those seeking an advantage in the dynamic fields of media, public affairs, international relations. IC is at the forefront of research in the field of International Communication and Media. IC evolved from the International Communication Program or ICP.
ICP was the name given by students to the MA in International Communication, the first of its kind in the Asia-Pacific Region, which was launched within Macquarie's Media & Communication Department (within the School of English, Linguistics and Media) in 1991. By 1995 ICP had its own premises and Director and Administrator. In 1998 it began to operate as an independent Centre (CIC) within the new Division of Society, Culture, Media and Philosophy.
CIC became the Department of International Communication (IC) in 2000. The Bachelor of International Communication, MA in International Communication (coursework), and MA Research, MA Honours and Ph.D. programs are offered in Sydney. The MA in Global Communication Practice is available with a Bangkok semester.
The Journal of International Communication (JIC), a leading journal in the field of International Communication, is published with assistance from IC - in fulfillment of the objective of promoting international research.
In 2001, IC assisted in the formation of a new international communication research organization, the Global Communication Research Association. IC hosts the presidential secretariat of the Global Communication Research Association. Associate Professor Naren Chitty is President of GCRA.
The secretariat-general of IAMCR, the International Association for Media & Communication, was located at IC from July 1996 to July 2000, during the period in which Associate Professor Naren Chitty (Head of IC) was Secretary General.
A 10 Year Anniversary Event was held in 2001, with the Under Secretary General for Disarmament Affairs of the United Nations, as chief guest.