Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This diploma covers the core practical and conceptual elements of entrepreneurship. You will study modules in opportunity recognition and business modelling, basic financial literacy for small businesses, marketing and digital promotion for startups, customer research and lean product development, legal and regulatory issues for small enterprises, and operations and resource planning for micro‑businesses.

Learning approaches emphasise applied tasks: developing a simple business plan, pitching to peers and mentors, running short market tests, and managing basic accounting and cashflow records. Units also explore ethical decision‑making and social entrepreneurship, reflecting ACU's focus on values‑based business practice.

• Opportunity identification and validation
• Business models, planning and pitching
• Foundations of small‑business finance and bookkeeping
• Marketing, branding and social media for startups
• Legal, compliance and risk management for small enterprises
• Operations, supply and customer service for micro‑businesses
• Social enterprise and ethical entrepreneurship
• Workshops, mentoring and practical project work

Entry requirements

Applicants are generally expected to have completed secondary schooling (or an equivalent senior secondary qualification). Mature‑age applicants without recent formal qualifications may be considered on the basis of life and work experience. Evidence of basic English language competence is required; international applicants will need to meet ACU's standard English proficiency requirements for vocational study.

Some campuses or delivery modes may require an interview or a pre‑enrolment discussion to confirm suitability for the practical, project‑based curriculum. Completion of a relevant vocational Certificate IV or demonstrable small‑business experience can also support entry and may provide credit towards the diploma.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical capabilities to start and run small ventures or to contribute in early‑stage businesses. Typical roles include small business owner/operator, startup co‑founder, franchise operator, micro‑enterprise manager, business development support officer, or roles in community and social enterprise organisations. The diploma also provides a pathway into undergraduate business and commerce degrees for those seeking to continue to bachelor‑level study.

Because the course emphasises hands‑on skills, graduates often move into freelance, consulting or gig‑economy work, or use the qualification as a springboard to further study and investment readiness for larger scale ventures.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers a supportive learning environment with small class sizes, practical workshops and access to staff experienced in small business and social enterprise. The university integrates ethical and socially responsible perspectives into business education, which is well suited to students interested in values‑driven entrepreneurship.

Delivery is often flexible, with options for on‑campus and blended or online study to accommodate working students and those already running a small venture. ACU also provides student support services, mentoring opportunities and links to local business ecosystems and community organisations, helping students translate classroom learning into real‑world practice.