Master of Business Administration (Online)

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Develop advanced leadership skills to effectively manage people, processes and organisations, demonstrating creativity and initiative in dynamic organisational situations and varied organisational settings.
2. Make ethical and responsible decisions in complex and uncertain environments, demonstrating a high level of personal autonomy, accountability and leadership.
3. Synthesise discipline-relevant theory and skills in varied operating environments to solve complex organisational problems.
4. Plan and manage innovation and organisational change using theoretical, technical and creative skills.
5. Plan and develop research projects and lead organisational research and analytical activities, demonstrating strong knowledge of applied research methods and a comprehensive understanding of data and evidence-based decision making.

Lead with confidence in any sector with UC’s 100% online Master of Business Administration (MBA). Designed for experienced professionals, this course provides you with the leadership, financial and strategic skills to take on executive roles in government, corporate and not-for-profit organisations.

You’ll learn how to navigate complexity, manage change and influence decision-making at the highest level. Explore strategic communication, risk management and stakeholder engagement, all while building a multi-sector perspective that can be applied immediately in your career. Specialised units will also deepen your insight into government business operations, procurement and budget cycles.

Flexible online study means you can balance learning with work and life, while benefiting from UC’s expert teaching and industry connections.

Graduates are prepared for senior leadership positions such as senior executive, policy advisor, business consultant, or strategic communications manager, ready to lead transformation in dynamic environments. Wherever your ambitions lie, UC’s online MBA will help you get there.

Recommended study pattern

Required units:

• Data, Analytics and Solutions PG
• Financial Decision Making G 
• Effective Talent Management PG 
• Contemporary Marketing Principles and Practice G 
• Business Economics G 
• Industry Project PG 
• Organisational Leadership PG 
• Strategy and Innovation PG 

Restricted choice units (select 4)

• Strategic Communication and Advocacy PG
• Applied Risk Management PG
• Government Procurement and the Budget Cycle PG 
• Organisational Project Management PG 
• Legal Frameworks for Business and Government G 
• Public Policy in the Australian Context PG 

For the full study pattern, please visit the Master of Business Administration (Online) digital handbook page.

Award requirements

Completion of all subjects, as per the recommended study pattern.

Choose your subjects

Electives

As part of your MBA Online, you’ll select four restricted choice units from options including strategic communication, risk management, procurement, project management, legal frameworks, and public policy. Each 3-credit-point unit offers targeted expertise to enhance your leadership capability.

Restricted choice units:

• Strategic Communication and Advocacy PG
• Applied Risk Management PG
• Government Procurement and the Budget Cycle PG 
• Organisational Project Management PG 
• Legal Frameworks for Business and Government G 
• Public Policy in the Australian Context PG 

Exit points

Alternative exits for the MBA Online: MGC101 Graduate Certificate in Business Administration

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $46,350

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

UC’s online learning is inspired by Canberra’s vibrant, progressive spirit. As the centre of Australian decision-making, Canberra is where ideas come to life—and we bring that energy to you, wherever you are. UC’s industry-focused approach connects you with expert guest speakers and hands-on projects that tackle real workplace challenges, boosting your employability and confidence. With flexible pathways and a renowned support network, UC helps you thrive and make a meaningful impact in your career..

Learn more about UC.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

25

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

32

Applicants of UC's Master of Business Administration (Online) must have a bachelor qualification, or equivalent, in a related field OR Bachelor qualification, or equivalent, in an unrelated field AND three years' work experience OR Bachelor qualification, or equivalent, in an unrelated field AND Graduate Certificate in Business or higher.

Relevant work experience may be considered if it’s connected to your area of study. Please send an enquiry to our Future Students team to discuss your individual circumstances. 

An IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall, with no band score below 6.0 (or equivalent).

At UC, we want to help you get the credit you deserve for the hard work you've already done. Whether it’s from previous study, vocational training, or even relevant work experience, you might be eligible to fast-track your degree, finish sooner and save money along the way.

What Can Count for Credit?

You could gain credit for:

• Completed or partially completed tertiary studies (from a university, TAFE, or college).
• Vocational training at Certificate III level or higher (Australian Qualifications Framework).
• Relevant work experience (if it’s connected to your area of study).

How Does It Work?

If you’ve studied at an institution that has a formal agreement with UC, your credit application will be automatically assessed when you apply for admission – no extra steps needed.

If you’re a domestic student and want credit for other study or work experience, you can apply after accepting your offer to study.

Students studying online can access virtual Work Integrated Learning opportunities. This content includes on-demand guest lectures, industry case studies and industry projects. 

Any in-person placement hours in a business or on an overseas study tour are not available online.