Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The Graduate Diploma in Business Administration covers core areas of business and management to equip students with practical analytical and leadership skills. The curriculum typically comprises a mix of compulsory core units and elective units, delivered through a combination of lectures, case studies, group projects and applied assessments.

• Core subjects: managerial accounting and finance fundamentals, marketing principles, organisational behaviour and human resource management, operations and project management, and business strategy.
• Electives: students can usually choose from topics such as entrepreneurship and innovation, business analytics, sustainability and corporate social responsibility, international business, and contemporary leadership.
• Learning emphasis: practical problem-solving, use of real-world case studies, teamwork and communication skills, and development of strategic thinking appropriate to middle-management roles.
• Study load and structure: the program is structured to be completed in less time than a master's degree—often over one academic year full-time or part-time equivalents—allowing credit transfer into a relevant master's program for those who wish to continue to postgraduate study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are generally required to hold an undergraduate degree from a recognised institution or have significant professional experience in a managerial or specialised role. Equivalent qualifications and evidence of recent study or workplace learning may be considered. International applicants must meet ACU's English language proficiency requirements.

• Academic background: a bachelor’s degree (in any discipline) or equivalent professional qualifications.
• Work experience: applicants without a degree but with substantial relevant work experience may be eligible through a recognition of prior learning or on a case-by-case basis.
• English language: demonstrated proficiency in English as required by the university for postgraduate coursework (standard tests or recognised exemptions apply).
• Additional requirements: some applicants may be asked to submit a CV, referee reports or a statement of purpose outlining their professional goals and reasons for undertaking the diploma.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Business Administration develop versatile skills applicable across industries. The qualification supports career progression into roles that require broader business understanding and leadership capability.

• Typical roles include business analyst, operations coordinator, project officer, marketing assistant/ coordinator, and human resources officer.
• The diploma is also commonly used as a stepping stone to middle-management positions or as a pathway into a specialised master’s degree (for example, an MBA or a master’s in management, marketing or human resources).
• Graduates working in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors benefit from improved strategic decision-making, financial literacy and project management skills.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU combines strong teaching focus with applied learning opportunities and connections to industry and community partners. The university emphasises ethical leadership, social responsibility and practical skills, which aligns well with programs designed to prepare graduates for responsible management roles.

• Applied learning: courses are designed with workplace relevance in mind, featuring case-based assessment and opportunities for collaborative projects.
• Flexible study options: ACU typically offers on-campus and online delivery modes, supporting part-time study for working professionals.
• Pathways: the diploma provides academic credit and articulation opportunities into relevant master’s degrees for students wishing to continue their postgraduate study.
• Student support: students have access to academic skills support, career services and dedicated student experience programs.