Subject Spotlight: MGI521 – Professional Communications

The subject you didn’t know you needed—until you do it.

If you’ve ever thought, “I already communicate well enough at work”, you’re not alone. MGI521 – Professional Communications is one of those subjects many students approach with scepticism—until they experience its impact first-hand.

Offered as a core subject in our MBA (Computing), Networking and Systems Administration, and Project Management postgraduate degrees, and available as an elective in many others, MGI521 is available to enrol in March, July, and November each year.

Why choose MGI521?

This subject doesn’t just skim the surface with tips on business etiquette and persuasive emails. It dives deep into the psychology, strategy, and real-world practice of communication in professional settings.

As Brenton Burchmore, subject author and mentor, puts it:

“MGI521 was built to equip professionals with the practical tools they need to improve how they communicate—whether that’s to lead teams, deliver ideas, manage conflict, or influence change.”

Hear from Brenton himself in the short video below, where he explains the motivation behind this unique subject and how it continues to transform the careers of those who complete it.

What makes MGI521 a standout subject?

Here are just a few reasons professionals from across industries choose to study Professional Communications:

1. Essential Communication Skills
   Clear, confident communication is a cornerstone of effective leadership and collaboration. MGI521 builds those skills with intention and insight.
2. Universal Application
   No matter your industry or role, strong communication sets you apart. This subject helps translate complex ideas into impactful messages.
3. Career Advancement
   Employers consistently rate communication as one of the most in-demand skills. Whether you manage people, projects, or processes, communication will determine your effectiveness.
4. Better Teamwork
   Learn how to foster understanding and trust in team environments by developing communication habits that reduce conflict and improve cohesion.
5. Conflict Resolution
   Discover techniques to handle difficult conversations and navigate workplace disagreements constructively and confidently.
6. Hands-On Learning
   MGI521 is designed to be practical. You’ll apply communication theory in real-world tasks like report writing, presenting, and pitching ideas.
7. Sharpened Research & Analysis
   Improve your ability to gather, interpret, and present information clearly and persuasively—essential in both leadership and decision-making.

What you’ll learn in MGI521 – Professional Communications

• Psychology of knowledge exchange
• Business language and document writing
• Digital communication tools and platforms
• Business proposals and report writing
• Presentation design and delivery
• Influence and buy-in strategies
• Workshop and meeting facilitation
• Managing conflict and negotiation
• Leadership, management, and mentoring communication styles
• Personal presentation and public speaking

MGI521 – Professional Communications Learning Outcomes

By the end of this subject, you’ll be able to:

• Design, compose and deliver professional presentations
• Identify barriers to effective communication—and overcome them
• Apply communication techniques to solve real business problems
• Critically evaluate and use communication theory in a workplace setting
• Use communication to facilitate business outcomes
• Navigate the world of digital communication with confidence and impact

Meet your mentor: Brenton Burchmore

MGI521 is designed and delivered by Brenton Burchmore, a veteran educator and business professional with a dynamic career across IT, sales, project management, and operations. Since joining IT Masters in 2010, Brenton has authored more than a dozen postgraduate subjects and led short courses completed by over 75,000 students.

With deep experience in technology adoption, UX, and consulting, Brenton brings a practitioner’s insight into every lesson—ensuring students not only learn theory but know how to apply it.

Ready to communicate like a leader?

MGI521 is more than just a subject—it’s a game-changer for your career. Whether you’re leading teams, managing projects, or simply looking to sharpen your impact in meetings, presentations, or negotiations, this subject will give you the tools to do it better.

This subject is available in Sessions 2 and 3 in 2025, starting July 14 and November 17 respectively. Enrol in MGI521 – Professional Communications and take your communication skills to the next level.