MBA vs Commerce and Management courses
What is an MBA?
An MBA stands for a Master of Business Administration (MBA), so it is actually another form of a master’s degree. We offer a part-time and full-time MBA, however rather than the difference being the study mode they are two completely different degrees.
Abbie Watts, full-time MBA student
Our part-time MBA consists of 7 core units of study, 4 electives and an industry capstone unit, whereas the full-time MBA has 11 core units of study, an industry capstone unit and no electives.
“Students get a first-class learning experience and amazing insights from leading professionals from various industries. It's amazing to hear from guest lecturers that what you're learning in the class translates into what they're doing in the real world.
I've looked at a lot of MBAs and I would say that I can't recommend this one enough. I have gotten so much out of this experience and its truly changed who I am, and what I value and what I'll do going forward."
Why study an MBA?
Many students opt to do an MBA for its international standing and strong reputation around the world. Graduates also benefit financially from the educational investment, with graduate MBA salaries averaging above $140,000.
MBAs attract a mix of students from diverse backgrounds, far beyond traditional business roles. With a strong focus on developing technical, personal and interpersonal skills needed to lead, our MBA's are designed for professionals with 3-5 years of relevant experience looking to take their career to the next level, make a career change or break into senior management.
Akhilla Ashok, current full-time MBA student
The Master of Management
The Master of Management program is similar in style to an MBA, but for a younger market. It’s designed to equip recent undergraduates or young professionals with 1-2 years’ experience from any background with the skills necessary for a career in management in their chosen field.
In just one year, you will develop the skills that businesses demand, regardless of your previous experience or undergraduate area of study.
Serwan Roman, Master of Management student.
You’ll explore the core areas of business activity – from strategy formulation and decision-making to business negotiation and people management. Through practical application and opportunities to work directly with industry, you will graduate with an integrated and future-focussed understanding of all aspects of business activity.
“I think the most rewarding thing about the program is that it doesn’t just teach you the fundamentals of business theory, but you will undergo practical experience surrounding strategy, innovation, quantitative analysis and most importantly, a process of self-reflection where you can really identify your strengths, weaknesses and biases.”
The Master of Management (CEMS)
If you are from a business background, the Master of Management (CEMS) is a 1.5-year global degree available to you. We are the only university in Australia to offer this program, which allows you to complete the CEMS Master in International Management as part of your degree.
Friederike Badenhausen, Master of Management (CEMS) student.
You will spend at least one semester at a CEMS network University where you will gain valuable cross cultural experience whilst undertaking study and business experience. In turn, CEMS graduates are eagerly sought by leading multination corporations.
“As someone ambitious with strong intrinsic motivation to do something meaningful in my life I realised that I wanted to help people and empower them to stand up for themselves. This degree helps me to do exactly that. It is a program built around developing responsible leaders for the future.”
The transformed Master of Commerce
The future of work is complex and dynamic. In response, we’ve transformed our suite of Master of Commerce programs. Co-designed with industry, it’s now more versatile than ever. Study in either 18 months or 2 years and choose from 8 future-focused specialisations including Strategy, Innovation and Management and Data Analytics for Business. You can take advantage of integrated industry experiences as well as research and exchange opportunities. Your career, future-proofed.
From semester 1, 2021, you can choose to study one of our transformed programs:
- Master of Commerce (Extension) 2 years full time
- Master of Commerce 1.5 years full time
- Graduate Diploma in Commerce 1 year full time
- Graduate Certificate in Commerce 0.5 years full time
Specialised business master's degree
A specialised business master's degree may be the right option for you if you are looking to gain specialised skills in a particular area.
As globalisation continues to put pressure on performance, there is an ongoing demand for employees with expert knowledge and the ability to edge ahead of the competition. For individuals who are interested in specialising, looking to upskill or jump into a new industry, a specialised master's degree can provide the right ingredients.
Jessie Hu Master of Professional Accounting '15
Senior Accountant, KPMG Australia
“I chose the Business School for its international reputation and connections to industry. I have completed internships in Singapore and Hong Kong worked on a consulting project in Nepal through the Community Placement Program and participated in the Deloitte NEXT Innovation Program.
“All of these opportunities not only equipped me with technical skills and real-world experience, but they are also shaping my career.”
More information
Whatever your career aspirations, there is a wide range of postgraduate business courses on offer. For more information, follow the links below:
