"***Communication & Beyond*** is like a time capsule offering invaluable glimpses into… the formation of the vibrant academic mosaic that is the field of communication and media studies in Australia." - *Steven Maras PhD,* Associate Professor, Media and Communication, **The University of Western Australia** "**…fosters bigger-picture thinking** about the interactions between institutions of learning and the community…**accessible and thought-provoking examination of human communication studies.**" – *D. Donovan,* Senior Reviewer, **Midwest Book Review** Describes the social, economic, and political climate fostering the rapid growth of communication education in Queensland and nationwide from the mid-1970s. Notes changing government mandates to satisfy the expanding needs in the private and public sector for employees with enhanced communication abilities. **Traces the development of new programs to enable careers in advertising, broadcasting, business, film, government, journalism, nonprofits, public relations, teaching, writing, emerging technologies, and many other areas**–detailing the role of the first degree-level course in communication at the Queensland Institute of Technology. Outlines key academic personalities who developed the new courses and research, as well as providing an accessible examination of human communication studies. As an exemplar of collaboration among government, industry, and the academy, this history **highlights key concerns about the role and impact of higher education institutions in society.**