Top Online MBA Courses in Australia: A Complete Guide

Do you consider pursuing an MBA degree in Australia? You are not alone. Several students worldwide are drawn to the country due to its strong economy, international business opportunities and overall diversity.

Moreover, Australia has an unmatched global reputation for its MBA programs. Business schools for MBAs in cities like Sydney and Melbourne rank among the top 100 business schools in the world. Their internationally accredited Master of Business Administration online programs are recognized across the world.

Furthermore, the availability of government-funded TAFE MBA programs makes studying MBAs in Australia affordable. Here is a compilation of the Top MBA online and offline programs in Australia to help you become successful leaders in the present competitive global market.

1. Why Should You Study An MBA?

The Master of Business Administration is a great way to learn current business theory, tools, and skills to enhance your business management expertise. 

Online MBA courses in Australia enable you to study anywhere and anytime that suits you. The course curriculum is designed to help students master business fundamentals and key business concepts that include leadership, strategy, management, marketing, finance, and accounting.

It also develops critical thinking, leadership, problem-solving, analytical, management, and creative skills indispensable for this role.

Whether you study a general or a specialized MBA degree in Accounting, Information Knowledge Management, Health Services Management, or Managing and Leading People, you gain confidence and managerial skills to lead cross-functional teams with innovative business approaches.

Successful completion of the MBA degree prepares you for the following:

• Develop a critical understanding of complex business environments to navigate the complex global business landscape with confidence 

• Apply expert knowledge to management roles and responsibilities throughout the business spectrum

• Form ethical evidence-backed and sustainable decisions

• Effectively communicate and lead cross-functional teams

2. What Is The Eligibility Criteria To Enter MBA Courses in Australia?

To get admission into business schools in Australia, the minimum entry requirements are as follows:

• Year 12 education in English

• A Bachelor’s degree from any Australian university, or equivalent (Minimum 65% score)

or 

• 2-3 years of prior work experience in a business or management-related field equivalent to an eligible degree 

• Good GMAT/GRE and IELTS scores are required. The IELTS score (Language Proficiency Test) shows your proficiency in the English language. Students seeking admission in popular Australian universities/business schools should have IELTS scores of approx. 6.5 to 7.0.

While some universities and business schools accept students into MBA courses with GMAT and IELTS scores, reputable universities such as Monash, Macquarie, LaTrobe, and Deakin University, accept students without a GMAT score.

Some universities also accept GRE scores instead of the GMAT. It is best to visit the websites of individual colleges and universities to get a clear idea of their entry requirements.

• Minimum 2 reference letters from the past employer or professors

• Complete an Interview with the faculty of a business school, in-person, on phone, or over a video call.

3. How Much Time Does It Take To Complete An Online MBA Degree In Australia?

MBA courses in Australia are available in various study modes such as face-to-face, online, blended, full-time, or part-time to help students tailor their studies as per their convenience.

It usually takes 1 ½ to 2 years to complete a full-time MBA degree from Australia. However, you can also find a few universities that offer accelerated 1-year online MBA in Australia.

4. How To Apply For MBA Programs?

Your admission to business schools in Australia will be based on your grades in an undergraduate degree, related work experience, and the interview.

You can apply for admission to universities in Australia in the following ways:

• Direct Application: Visit the university website and directly apply for the program on the course page

• Through Agents: Contact the university agents with the required documents and apply for the program. 

5. Do You Get The Same Degree With an Online MBA?

This is the most common question that people have when it comes to deciding between doing an MBA online or offline. An online MBA degree carries as much importance as a regular full-time MBA course.

The only difference between an online and offline MBA is the mode of delivery. The entry requirements, selection procedure, and course curriculum remain the same. The curriculum is designed to be as strict as a classroom-based MBA course.

If you want to know if an online MBA is accepted just like an offline MBA course? Then Yes. Everything is the same, just the way you learn is different. The classes, lectures, and homework assignments are conducted online instead of in-classroom sessions.

With no difference in placement and job opportunities, an online MBA gives working candidates the added advantage of flexible learning, work-life balance, salary increment, and career advancement.

Based on the QS Ranking, the online MBA course from Macquarie University ranks 2nd in Australia and 19th on a global level. It is recommended as one of the best options to pursue an online MBA course.

6. What Are The Top Online MBAs In Australia Based on Global Rankings?

The ranking indicators (up to 100) are determined based on the following factors:

• Overall score

• Class Experience

• Class Profile

• Employability

• Faculty and Teaching

7. Can I Apply For An MBA Without An Undergraduate Degree?

Yes, Students can study for an MBA in Australia without an undergraduate qualification.

In such a case, you should have extensive and relevant work experience that meets the admission criteria for an MBA course.

8. Can I Apply For An MBA Without Work Experience?

Yes, It is possible to pursue an MBA course in Australia without work experience if you have high GMAT or GRE scores.

The required average GMAT score should be in the range of 550 to 590. In addition to it, the students must demonstrate their passion and dedication for the subject they aspire to study.

9. Should I Consider Accreditation When Choosing An MBA Program?

Accreditation determines the quality of qualification for the teaching standards, student outcomes, and service delivery. MBA courses in Australia are accredited by highly-sought-after national and global organizations such as:

• Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

• The European Foundation for Management Development (EQUIS) 

• Association of MBAs (AMBA)

Monash Business School is one of the most popular Australian universities with triple notable accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS). This ensures that their global recognised MBA course meets strict standards with professional and academic excellence.

10. What Are The Top Australian Universities And Business Schools To Study MBA?

Australia is the home to reputable and internationally recognized academic institutions to study MBA courses online and offline (on campus).

Here are the top universities that offer the best online MBAs in Australia:

• University of New South Wales

• Monash University

• Macquarie University

• The University of Western Australia

• University of Sydney

MBA programs are also available in a few other universities such as:

• University of South Australia

• Bond University

• Queensland University of Technology

• Griffith University

• Southern Cross University

• Charles Sturt University

• Deakin University 

• The University of Newcastle

• James Cook University 

• Torrens University

• Curtin University

• RMIT University

• Victoria University

International students can consider pursuing an online MBA at RMIT University, James Cook University, Victoria University, and Southern Cross University.

The following Business Schools in Australia are included in the list of top 250 business colleges worldwide:

• Melbourne Business School

• Monash Business School

• Adelaide Graduate School of Business 

• UQ Business School

• Australian Graduate School of Management

• La Trobe Business School

• UTS Business School

• Sydney Business School

• ANU College of Business & Economics

11. What Jobs Are Available For An MBA Graduate?

An MBA graduate can work in various executive roles across government, private, and not-for-profit sectors by building strong management and leadership skills.

MBAs are in high demand in industries that operate in finance, marketing, accounting, business, human resources, operations, tourism, engineering, construction, sports, and corporate sustainability. Finance is the highest paid industry, followed by technology and consulting.

Many small business owners and entrepreneurs need competent MBAs to improve their business skills, develop professional networks, and employ successful and innovative technology, practices, and solutions in their business.

Graduating in an MBA course in Australia lets you work in the following positions:

• Accountant ($AU59,532 per year)

• General Manager ($AU116,244 per year)

• Manager ($97,563 per year)

• Marketing Manager ($AU80,653 per year)

• Program Manager ($119,644 per year)

• Operations Manager ($AU83,836 per year)

• Accounting Manager ($AU89,995 per year)

• Financial Manager ($AU99,316 per year)

• Project Manager ($AU100,143 per year) 

• Employee Relations Manager ($AU141,847 per year) 

• Organizational Development Manager ($AU117,811 per year) 

• Assistant Business Development Manager ($AU58,958 per year)

• Business Development Executive ($83,116 per year)

• Business Development Manager ($AU79,669 per year)

12. Top 26 Online And Offline MBA Courses In Australia

1. Master Of Business Administration Monash University

• On-campus program (new Monash Business School facility at Monash University’s Caulfield campus)
• 2-year program

2. Master Of Business Administration- Macquarie University

• 1.5 - 4 years
• Online 

3. Master Of Business Administration Melbourne Business School

• 2 years full time
• On-Campus (Parkville)
• Available to domestic and international students

4. The University of Western Australia

• At Perth (Crawley campus)
• Full-time study
• On-campus delivery mode

5. Sydney Business School

• Full-time study or an equivalent part-time
• 18 months on campus 

6. Queensland University of Technology

• 1.5 years full-time (On Campus) or 3 years part-time (Online)
• In Gardens Point Canberra
• Course intake starts in March, and in September

7. The University of South Australia

• City West Campus 
• 1.5 year(s) full-time
• Course start dates: January, April, June, and September 
• IELTS requirements: total [6.5], reading [6.0], and writing [6.0]

8. UQ Business School

• 1 year MBA program (accelerated course), 2 years (for working executives), or up to 7 years (for self-paced flexible learning)

9. Bond University

• On-Campus, Remote, and Multi-Modal Classes 
• 3 semesters (1 year)
• Starting semesters: January and September of each year from 2022 to 2024

10. Griffith University

Online and “On Campus” courses (Gold Coast and South Bank)

11. Southern Cross University (On-Campus Course)

• 2 years full-time or 4 years part-time
• Gold Coast Campus
• previous study or work experience can help complete the degree in a relatively shorter period
• IELTS: 6.5 (Required Overall Score)
• Start dates: March, July, and October

12. Southern Cross University (Online Course)

• 2 years part-time
• 100% online
• Intake period: Jan, Mar, Apr, July, Sept, and Nov

13. Charles Stuart University

• Online
• Full-time: 1.5 Years (Actual Duration 2.0 Years) years (or part-time equivalent)
• Availability of Sessions: Session 2 2022 (Jul - Oct) and Session 3 2022 (Nov - Feb)

14. Deakin University

• 1.5 years full-time or part-time equivalent
• Cloud (Online) or Burwood Campus (Melbourne) 

15. The University of New Castle

• 1.5 years full-time or part-time equivalent up to 5 years 
• Face to Face, Online

16. James Cook University

• Townsville and Brisbane Campus 
• 1.5 years full-time or part-time equivalent
• Starting Dates: February, May, September

17. Torrens University

• Student: Domestic and International
• Online, Blended, and On-campus 
• Campus locations: Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide
• 1.5 years full time, part-time options available, 1 year accelerated

18. Curtin University

• 1 year, 6 months full-time
• Perth City
• On-campus, Online
• IELTS Academic (required Overall Score of 6.5)

19. Master Of Business Administration - RMIT University – Offline Course

• No Entry Score required
• Full-time 2 years, Part-time 4 years, Reduced duration available
• Melbourne City
• Next intake: February, and July

20. RMIT University – Online Course

• Part-time 2 years intensive
• Online
• Next intake: January, March, May, July, September, and October

21. Victoria University

• 2 years
• Intake dates: March, July, and November
• IELTS (or equivalent): required Overall Score of 6.5 
• Intake dates: Currently accepting applications for the course

22. Adelaide Business School

• IELTS of 7.0 (with no less than 6.5 in each band)
• Flexible study mode: Weekly evening classes, Monthly weekend intensives (Friday/Saturday), Optional MBA summer school for 2 weeks in January
• 1.5 years (accelerated learning to 5 years (self-paced learning) 

23. Master Of Business Administration UNSW - Australian Graduate School of Management

• Domestic / International
• 12 months or 24 months (extension)
• Commencing terms: May
• On-campus

24. Master Of Business Administration La Trobe Business School

• 1.5 years full-time or part-time equivalent
• On-campus, Online or Blended
• Start dates: Semester 1 (February 2022), Semester 2 (July 2022)

25. UTS Business School

• City campus
• 2 years full time or 4 years part-time

26. ANU College of Business & Economics

• In-Person 
• 1.5 years full-time or 3 years part-time

13. What Australian Universities Offer MBAs With Scholarships?

Several business schools in Australia offer a broad range of scholarships to support students in their learning journey. The scholarships are offered either as a 100% tuition fee waiver or a certain amount or percentage of tuition fee waiver.

Check out the website of the following business schools to know more about them:

• Melbourne Business School

• Australian National University

• UWA Business School

• Adelaide Business School

• Sydney Business School

• UQ Business School

• UTS Business School

14. Where Can I Enrol In A TAFE MBA Course In Australia?

Are you looking for a TAFE course to study for an MBA in Australia? Several nationally accredited learning institutions and universities offer TAFE MBA courses via online, distance learning, or classroom-based mode.

• Master Of Business Administration (Leadership and Enterprise) - Torrens University Australia (Online, Virtual)

• RMIT Online (Online, Anywhere)

• Victoria University Online (Online, Anywhere)

• The University of Adelaide (Online, Anywhere)

• Southern Cross University (Online)

• Griffith University (Online)

15. How Can Overseas Students Obtain an Australian Student Visa To Study for an MBA?

International applicants must have an Australian student visa to study for an MBA in Australia. For this, you need to submit a visa application along with the following documents and an application fee:

• Valid passport

• Identity Proof 

• Acceptance letter from the college/ university

• OSHC health insurance

• Bank statement to show you have adequate funds to pay the course fee

• English language proficiency test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, etc.

• GTE or Statement of Purpose

• Recent passport size photographs

• Medical certificate

After you apply, you will be called for a visa interview based on your present location.

16. How Much Does An MBA Cost In Australia?

You may incur the following types of expenses while applying for an MBA degree:

Pre-Arrival Cost

This is the cost that includes the charges that you may incur before you come to study in Australia:

• Registration Fees for relevant tests such as GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, or GRE and obtain scores.

• Application Fee

• Australian Student Visa Fee

Post-Arrival Cost

This type of expense includes charges incurred during the duration of your studies, such as:

• Tuition fees

• Transportation

• Books

• Accommodation costs

The total MBA program cost in Australia differs from one business school to another. Among the top-ranking institutes, La Trobe Business School and UWA offer the cheapest online MBA in Australia, while Melbourne Business School has the highest fee for MBAs in Australia.

17. Conclusion

An MBA degree is worth pursuing if you aspire to climb the corporate ladder and establish a successful career. Earning this post-graduate professional will get you in a good position in the current highly competitive business world.

To become a business leader of tomorrow and succeed in a global business environment, find the appropriate MBA program, and enrol in the course today.

Useful Links to Explore:

• English Language Requirements for Australia
• Cultural differences you may experience in Australia
• How to find Part-Time work as a Student in Australia
• Seven Tips for Students on a Budget in Australia
• How to get a Scholarship to Study in Australia
• Driving in Australia as an International Student
• How to change your Course or Institute in Australia
• The Benefits of a Professional Year Program (PYP)
• A Complete Guide to Study in Australia
• Types of Education in Australia
• What to Study in Australia?