Key facts

UNE unit code: COMM387

*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.

Start
  • Trimester 3 - Online
24/7 online support
  • Yes
Intensive schools
  • No
Supervised exam
  • No
Credit points
  • 6

Unit information

UNE student studies on a laptop on her lounge at home

Screen adaptations form a vital part of the cinematic and televisual landscape.

In this unit you will explore the creative and industrial processes at work in the adaptation of a wide variety of texts to screen by examining their transformation from one medium, genre or cultural/production context to another. You will also have the opportunity to consider how such processes shape the narrative for the new audience.

This unit asks the question, "What is involved in the successful adaptation of a story destined for visual consumption?" and engages you in the practice of textual transformation as well as the analysis of existing adaptations.

Stay ahead of the developments in this rapidly evolving industry.

Offerings

For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.

Teaching period
Mode/location
Trimester 3Online

*Offering is subject to availability

Intensive schools

There are no intensive schools required for this unit.

Enrolment rules

Pre-requisites
12cp or candidature in a postgraduate award
Restrictions
COMM587
Combined units

Notes

Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.

Unit coordinator(s)

profile photo of Fincina Hopgood
Fincina HopgoodSenior Lecturer in Screen Studies - Faculty of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences and Education; School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. demonstrate knowledge of a diverse range of cinematic and televisual texts;
  2. identify a range of approaches to the study of screen adaptation and apply understanding of processes related to the adaptation of text to screen;
  3. research, and critically evaluate, cinematic/televisual texts with a degree of independence; and
  4. interpret and communicate ideas and arguments, using disciplinary conventions of academic writing about media and communications.

Assessment information

Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.

TitleMust CompleteWeightOfferingsAssessment Notes
EssayYes60%All offerings

No. Words: 2500

Independent Research ProjectYes40%All offerings

No. Words: 1500

Learning resources

Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.

Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.

Engagements with Adaptation

ISBN: 9781032572321

LEITCH, T. , Routledge 1st 2025

Text refers to: Trimester 3 (Online)

Excellence in experience, equity and employability

2026 Overall Experience

Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.

Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
2026 Social Equality

Five Stars for
Social Equity

UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.

Good Universities Guide 2026
2026 Graduate Employment

Five Stars for
Graduate Employment

UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.

Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
2026 Diamond-Rated Digital Learning

Diamond-Rated Digital Learning

UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.

ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.

We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*

*The Good Universities Guide

Stay connected

Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.

  • Course updates and important changes as they happen
  • Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
  • Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
  • Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire

Ready to stay in the loop?

GET IN TOUCHUniversity campus with students on a sunny day, historic brick building and green lawn

Why study with us?

Graduate Jess Trow, Bachelor of Education (K–6)

UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.

Jess Trow, Bachelor of Education (K–6)

What happens next?

laptop icon
1. Decide on your course

Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.

pencil icon
2. Apply

2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!

form icon
3. Receive an offer, enrol and start studying

Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.