University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The Master of Commerce offers a mix of core business foundations, advanced discipline-specific modules and elective study or a research capstone. Students typically tailor their degree by choosing from specialisations such as Accounting, Finance, Business Analytics, Economics, Marketing, Management and Human Resource Management.

• Core subjects — research methods, quantitative techniques, business ethics and strategy that build postgraduate-level analytical and decision-making skills.
• Finance — subjects may include corporate finance, investment analysis, derivatives and risk management, and portfolio management.
• Accounting — advanced financial reporting, managerial accounting, audit and assurance, and taxation topics designed for professional practice or further study.
• Business Analytics and Econometrics — data analysis, forecasting, applied econometrics, machine learning for business and data visualisation for decision support.
• Marketing and Management — marketing strategy, consumer behaviour, strategic management, organisational behaviour and operations management.
• Capstone or research project — many students complete an applied project, consulting-style capstone or research dissertation that integrates taught material with real-world problems.

Mode and duration vary by pathway; students may study full-time or part-time and can often combine coursework with a project or research component. The programme emphasises analytical rigour, practical application and industry engagement.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Competitive applicants will have a bachelor degree in commerce, economics, business, or a cognate discipline with a solid academic record. Candidates from other disciplines may be considered subject to completion of prerequisite undergraduate subjects or bridging coursework.

• Academic — an undergraduate degree with a reasonably strong academic result; some specialisations may require prior study in the chosen discipline (for example, accounting or calculus for finance/analytics).
• Professional experience — relevant work experience can strengthen an application, particularly for candidates without a related undergraduate degree.
• English language — applicants whose prior study was not in English must meet the University’s English language requirements (for example an accepted score on IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent).
• Additional requirements — some pathways or research components may require a statement of purpose, referee reports, or interviews. Specific prerequisite coursework may be requested and can be completed before or during the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Commerce progress into a wide range of professional roles across private and public sectors. The degree prepares students for positions requiring technical competence, analysis and strategic thinking.

• Financial analyst, corporate finance professional, investment analyst or risk manager
• Accountant, management accountant, auditor or tax advisor (often combined with professional accounting accreditation pathways)
• Business analyst, data analyst, analytics consultant or econometrician
• Marketing manager, brand manager, digital marketing analyst or market researcher
• Management consultant, project manager or strategy advisor
• Policy analyst or economic consultant in government, regulators or industry bodies

Graduates may also use the Master of Commerce as preparation for further research (PhD) or for professional accreditation where applicable.

Why study at University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia is a research-led institution located in Perth, offering close links to industries that are important to the region such as resources, energy, agriculture and professional services. The Business School provides teaching informed by research and engagement with local and international employers, with opportunities for industry projects and internships.

• Access to staff active in research across finance, accounting, economics, marketing and management, enabling an evidence-based curriculum.
• Industry connections in Perth and the broader Asia–Pacific region that support consulting projects, internships and graduate employment pathways.
• A range of flexible study options and specialisations that allow students to align the degree with career goals or further study.

Prospective students should consult the University of Western Australia’s official programme pages for the most current information about specialisations, enrolment options and entry criteria.