Looking to do an online business degree? Here's a list of the most useful types.
Make an informed choice about which business degree is right for you. Australian universities offer different types of degrees, including Bachelor of Business and MBA. High-salary jobs are available in accounting, economics, logistics, and more.
Let's explore the skills and knowledge you can gain from each course, potential career paths in the field, duration and cost, and standard entry requirements. Get the facts about these business and management programs. Here's a guide to the best business degrees available online.
Index of Degrees
Best Business Degrees in Australia
You really can't go wrong when you study for a business qualification. Choose from a range of high-paying majors. As well as your specialisation, you'll normally explore many other business subjects. Graduates gain a strong skill set of value to almost any employer.
Accounting skills are always in demand, offering high returns on your education investment. Train to be an accountant or financial specialist with an accounting degree.
Because accounting is fundamental to business, any good business course of a general nature will contain accounting subjects. To specialise and gain professional accreditation, do a bachelor or master's degree that conforms with the requirements of CPA Australia.
UNE - Bachelor of Accounting
The University of New England offers a Bachelor of Accounting that blends cutting-edge technology like AI with established accounting methods. The program is available fully online. Students prepare for the demands of accounting and finance careers with a degree accredited by major Australian accounting bodies. The curriculum includes courses in financial and managerial accounting, corporate finance, and auditing, and has options for specialisation.
Online Bachelor of Business degrees are flexible and can be combined with other disciplines. Content specific to your major may ramp up from 25% in Year 1 to 50% during Year 3.
Students learn concepts and analytical skills that are useful professionally and in everyday life. Business skills are versatile since almost every organisation undertakes administration, finance, marketing, etc.
ECU - Bachelor of Commerce
Edith Cowan University's online Bachelor of Commerce features 17 majors. Choices include Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, International Business, Event Management, Health Management, Entrepreneurship, Law in Business, Management, Professional Practice, Project Management, Sport Business, and Tourism and Hospitality Management. The undergraduate business program boasts an impressive 84.1% graduate satisfaction rate.
With burgeoning volumes of data available to Australian companies, demand for business analysts is strong. Study analytics with a Bachelor of Business Analytics or Master of Analytics.
Business analytics courses are popular among uni graduates with backgrounds in fields such as business, technology, science, engineering and maths. Students learn to apply data analytics to inform management decisions.
Deakin - Bachelor of Business Analytics
The online Bachelor of Business Analytics from Deakin University develops skills to analyse and leverage data effectively. It includes 24 subjects covering core areas like Data Science, Cyber Security, and Business Intelligence, and features a Work Integrated Learning unit. With strong industry links and a practical focus, the degree prepares students for different roles in the booming analytics field. This is Victoria's longest-running specialised business analytics course.
UNSW Online - Master of Analytics
The Master of Analytics at UNSW Online is an accelerated program to fast-track a career in data analytics. This fully online, comprehensive course can be completed in two years part-time. It contains 12 subjects covering data analysis, analytics and business, data visualisation, and predictive analytics, among others. Specialise in Human Resource Analytics or Marketing Analytics or opt for a broader selection of electives to achieve your career goals.
Economics is a niche profession but the study of economics is not. Students gain skills in mathematics, analysis and writing. They learn how income and wealth are generated.
Graduates may work as economists but usually apply their skills in other fields. Economics is useful in business professions, government and management. Graduates have demonstrated an ability to do maths, solve complex problems, and write analytical reports.
UNE - Bachelor of Economics
The University of New England offers a Bachelor of Economics for those interested in business, economies, and finance. The course is available online and on-campus in Armidale, NSW. Students develop analytical skills to solve complex economic issues. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in economics, finance, and policy analysis. Available majors are Applied Econometrics, Economics, Economic Development, and Environmental Analysis and Policy.
There are some fantastic courses for developing skills to be an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurship degrees may focus on innovation, product development, capital raising, and growth strategies.
Being an entrepreneur requires many different qualities and skills. Participants learn to start businesses but also excel in jobs such as financial analysis, public relations, marketing, and team management.
QUT - BBus (Entrepreneurship and Innovation)
QUT's Bachelor of Business in Entrepreneurship and Innovation is an online degree that covers subjects such as 'Thinking Like an Entrepreneur', 'Entrepreneurial Incubator', 'Financial Performance', 'Business Law and Governance', 'Innovation Management', and 'Strategic Marketing'. Students can customise their learning experience with electives like 'Advanced Marketing', 'Digital Business Management', and 'Sustainable Enterprise'. It requires a minimum ATAR of 70.
Finance and applied finance degrees are offered by many business schools, reflecting the discipline's value in the labour market. With high competition for jobs in Australia, a Master of Finance may help you secure top positions.
Finance professionals know accounting but focus more on investment strategy, trading, capital raising and other commercial deals. They're employed in banking, corporate finance and financial advising.
Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance)
The Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance) at Edith Cowan University delivers theory and practice in financial disciplines. Available at Joondalup and online, the double major features internships, a customisable curriculum, and practical skills in accounting and finance software. The qualification is accredited by CPA Australia, CAANZ, and other professional bodies. Graduates are ready for diverse careers in accounting, auditing, and finance. Indicative ATAR: 70.
UNSW Online - Master of Applied Finance
UNSW’s online Master of Applied Finance develops your ability to administer financial functions in business. The 12-subject program has 8 core units plus 4 electives and aligns with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) curriculum. Graduates are well positioned for the CFA designation. Topics include analytics, financial technology, and business management. The 100% online program is accelerated, allowing you to earn a masters in 2 years of part-time study.
If you're interested in business studies and you're not a recent school-leaver, a Graduate Certificate in Business is worth considering. The course is essentially open to anyone with a degree as well as experienced professionals.
Containing just four subjects, these are short courses in relative terms. They're typically embedded in longer master's programs of 12 subjects. Numerous specialisations are available.
UNSW Online - Graduate Certificate in Business
The online Graduate Certificate in Business from UNSW is delivered by the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM). Choose any four subjects from a selection of eight topics, including entrepreneurship and innovation, financial management, marketing, regulations, and digital technology. The course articulates into a Master of Management. Each subject runs over 7 weeks. Open to degree holders and professionals with 3+ years' experience.
The online Graduate Certificate in Business Administration may be the most popular postgraduate course in Australia. Students take it either as a stand-alone qualification or as part of their journey towards an MBA.
Being admitted is easier than gaining direct entry into an MBA program. Typically, the need for a university degree is waived. Students prove themselves by doing four business administration subjects.
JCU Online - Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Global
The Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Global from James Cook University is a well-priced course leading into an MBA. The four subjects are completed in sequence – one at a time – allowing you to easily fit study into a weekly schedule. The online program is also exam-free. Study high-return topics: data analysis and decision modelling, marketing analytics and strategy, management and leadership, and information and analytics technology.
With HR jobs to be found in almost every medium and large organisation in Australia, an HR management degree represents a solid career investment.
Students build skills across the spectrum of HR management duties, including in employee relations, talent acquisition and retention, rewarding performance, healthy workplaces, employee development, and managing change.
ECU - Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management)
The HR Management major at Edith Cowan University prepares students for jobs such as HR Manager, Recruitment Consultant, and Training & Development Officer. ECU's business program has an 84.1% satisfaction rate. Students need a minimum ATAR of 70. The course is available online as well as on campus in Perth, Western Australia. Specialist subjects include recruitment, HR strategy, and respect at work. Job placements are available to gain hands-on experience.
ECU - Master of Human Resource Management
The 100% online Master of Human Resource Management from Edith Cowan University is flexible and exam-free. Fast-track your degree and skip 3 of the 12 subjects if you have a major in HR, management, business administration, or employment/industrial relations. It's AHRI accredited and designed for part-time study by working professionals. Topics include managing people, employee relations, performance management, workplace wellbeing, and people analytics.
Leadership is an area of study that's best left until after you gain significant professional experience. That way, you can relate what you're learning to your own experiences and the work you do on a daily basis.
Masters in leadership and management are available from Australian universities. Leadership programs are lighter in terms of technical content that most MBA degrees.
Deakin - Master of Leadership
Deakin University has a good leadership and management degree to advance your career efficiently. The program centres on professional practice. Demonstrate competencies by exploring activities you do in the workplace. The Master of Leadership is affordable, takes only 12 months part-time, and allows for high levels of virtual engagement. Topics include: communication, digital literacy, teamwork, adaptive mindsets, leading and developing people, and driving strategic results.
Logistics and Supply Chain Management degrees are useful because this field is relevant to all businesses. Students learn a scientific / engineering approach to managing business interactions and flows.
A good logistician or supply chain manager boosts productivity by supporting business continuity while lowering costs. International business roles are widely available.
RMIT Online - Master of Supply Chain and Logistics Management
RMIT University offers a 100% online, fully accredited Master of Supply Chain and Logistics Management. Students do one subject at a time, with each taking 7 weeks. You can complete the part-time program in 2 years without ever having to sit a long exam. Assessment relies on research reports, case study analysis, and pop-up quizzes. Subjects include business analytics, distribution and freight logistics, e-Business, managing supply contracts, and strategic operations.
A Bachelor of Business (Management) prepares you to manage and lead. You learn how to approach organisational tasks in a structured, purposeful way.
Management is a business specialisation for people interested in administration, managing teams, and leading organisations. You'll build skills in decision making, strategic planning, organisational behaviour, and commercial law.
UNE - Bachelor of Business (Management)
The Bachelor of Business (Management) at the University of New England is for students aiming for managerial positions in the future. It offers subjects in strategic decision-making, organisational leadership, ethics, and change management. Students can choose from elective units like digital marketing and small business management. The 3-year program includes practical work placements, providing real-world experience. Study online or at Armidale in NSW.
UNSW Online - Master of Management
The Master of Management at UNSW Online is delivered by the Australian Graduate School of Management. It spans two years and includes 12 courses. Subjects include Financial Management, Business Economics, and Strategies for Disruption. The program is fully online with 6 start dates each year. It focuses on practical skills for tech-driven markets. This course suits professionals aiming for managerial roles. It offers options for fast completion via prior learning recognition.
Lerna Courses presents the best online marketing degrees. Accelerated programs are available where you study marketing principles as well as technology subjects such as digital marketing and social media.
Bachelor of Business programs offer marketing as a major. University graduates can go for a Masters in Marketing. The programs train students to take an analytical approach to driving sales.
ECU - Bachelor of Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations
The Bachelor of Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations from Edith Cowan University combines related disciplines. The curriculum sharpens your marketing skills while imparting strategic business management knowledge. Employability skills are emphasised, such as critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. The program spans traditional and digital media, allowing you to develop a portfolio to showcase your talents. Required ATAR: 70. Graduate rating: 84.1% satisfied.
RMIT Online - Master of Marketing
The Master of Marketing at RMIT University guides students through the activities that industry professionals perform. Study topics such as brand strategy, services marketing, product innovation, interactive marketing, data analytics, advanced digital marketing, and customer experience. The program comprises 12 subjects, each lasting for 7 weeks. Complete the course while working full-time. The degree is 100% online and accredited by the Australian Marketing Institute.
A Master of Business refers to any one of numerous specialised business master's degrees. They normally go by specific titles related to the specialisation, such as Master of Applied Finance.
Based on student interest, the most popular business masters are in business administration, finance, health management, professional accounting, and project management.
Popular majors for a Master of Commerce include marketing, finance, human resources management and logistics. You usually graduate with a degree title such as Master of Marketing or Master of Finance.
This type of degree is useful for expanding your business knowledge and skills in a broad way. Commerce masters are also flexible, allowing you to choose a program aligning with your career goals.
A Master of Business Administration is a valuable qualification offering sustained salary benefits. An online MBA can propel your career into executive roles in business strategy, management and leadership.
Most MBA candidates in Australia study remotely. Typically, students work full-time. Sequential study, where you focus on one subject at a time, is the most common style. Each subject is completed as part of a virtual class over 6-8 weeks.
SCU Online - Master of Business Administration
The online MBA from Southern Cross University is a flexible, affordable program for professionals to strengthen managerial skills. It requires 2 years of part-time study. Students may enter based on academic qualifications or professional experience. Specialisations: Accounting, Health Services Management, Information and Knowledge Management, or Managing and Leading People. The program includes core units, two electives, and a major industry project.
Because every project is different, project management degrees are principles based. But a good program will connect theory to examples to make the lessons tangible.
Project management is a postgraduate study field in which you explore the key steps to manage a successful project. Programs are open to professionals from all industries. Engineering, healthcare and software development are examples of sectors with high demand for skills.
SCU Online - Master of Project Management
Southern Cross University offers a 100% online Master of Project Management. Accelerated delivery allows you to study part-time and gain a masters in around two years, or earlier with advanced standing. Choose electives in areas such as accounting, engineering, health services, information technology, and leadership. The course is PMBOK® Guide industry aligned, priced competitively, and ideal for full-time workers. Graduate certificates and diplomas are also available.
Is a Business Degree Worth It?
Yes, a business degree is worthwhile in Australia, whether that's a 3-year bachelor degree or a postgraduate qualification. The field consists of inter-related disciplines that you can switch between in terms of study and work. Most provide ample job opportunities, with lucrative career paths.
For greater job certainty, you can opt for professional degrees in high-employment fields such as HR management, accounting, business analytics, and marketing. Greater competition but high-reward career streams include finance, economics, entrepreneurship, and management.
Succeeding with a business career may not be as straightforward as in fields such as nursing, teaching, engineering, and IT. However, great opportunities exist, and graduates have the flexibility to adjust their careers and find the ideal line of work for them.
Related: Is a Business Degree Worth It? Australia Guide
Study Business Online
Right now, close to 45k online students are doing business and commerce degrees with Australian universities (Source: UCube). Online business schools represent a strong and growing engine for professional development in Australia.
For first-time university students, you can study for a 3-year Bachelor of Business or Bachelor of Commerce degree. Generally, you don't have to settle on a business major until the 2nd or 3rd year of the course.
For university graduates, an assortment of postgraduate business degrees and qualifications are available. These vary in length and can be specialist or general online degrees. Many postgraduate students are working professionals who study business part-time.
Online business courses are a convenient way to gain professional qualifications in fields such as analytics, business management, finance and marketing. Distance education is the most cost-effective and time-conserving way to get a business qualification.
Related: Best Business Courses Online in Australia
FAQs
Bachelor degree
A bachelor degree – Bachelor of Business or Bachelor of Commerce – consists of 24 subjects and takes 3 years of full-time study.
Bachelor degree with honours
An honours degree takes 4 years. Just add an extra year and the equivalent of 8 subjects to your bachelor degree. You need to earn good enough grades to be accepted into the honours program.
MBA or other business masters
A Master of Business Administration or other business master's degree typically consists of 12 subjects and takes 1.4 years of full-time study. Note that business masters may be anywhere from 8-16 subjects depending on the program and your business education and experience.
Online MBA
With accelerated online learning, you can complete an MBA in 2 years of part-time study.
Holding a degree in business makes you potentially employable by small businesses and almost any medium or large organisation. Based on employment projections for Australia, job opportunities are plentiful for accountants, financial experts, business analysts, marketing professionals, and human resource professionals.
Group | Jobs in 2028 |
---|---|
Accountants | 224,148 |
Management and Organisation Analysts | 123,933 |
Advertising and Marketing Professionals | 100,262 |
Human Resource Professionals | 92,659 |
Financial Investment Advisers and Managers | 63,679 |
Financial Brokers | 49,260 |
Intelligence and Policy Analysts | 38,486 |
Source: National Employment Projections.
Also consider that specialist management roles have a combined projected employment of more than a million jobs. Some management jobs, such as HR, marketing or financial management, often depend on having a business education.
Postgraduate business management qualifications are also highly advantageous in industries such as construction, information technology, and education.
Business degrees also qualify you to work abroad. Business majors are often taught with an international business or global business context. You're trained and prepared to work for organisations with strong international connections.
Every type of business career can be high-paying depending on how far you ascend in that line of work. Several of the highest-paying career streams in Australia include:
- Human Resource Management - Positions such as Human Resources Manager, Recruitment Manager, and Human Resources Specialist offer substantial salaries, reflecting the crucial role of HR in managing and optimising an organisation's workforce.
- Business Analytics - This field includes high-paying roles like Business Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, and Data Analyst, with professionals valued for their ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.
- Finance - Careers in finance such as Financial Analyst, Investment Analyst, and Portfolio Analyst are well-compensated due to the high stakes nature of financial management and investment strategies.
- Digital Marketing - As digital marketing becomes more integral to business strategy, roles such as Digital Marketer, Marketing Manager, and Marketing Specialist command high salaries.
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management - Experts in this field, including Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Manager, and Operations Manager, are essential for ensuring efficient operation and management of supply chains, reflecting in their earning potential.
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