Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This combined program integrates interdisciplinary sustainability studies with foundational business education. You will complete core units in social and environmental sustainability—covering topics such as environmental management, sustainable development, climate change adaptation, Indigenous perspectives, community development and social justice—alongside business units in accounting, economics, marketing, management, human resources and entrepreneurship.

Typical study components include:

• Foundations of sustainability: systems thinking, ecology for sustainability, and principles of sustainable development.
• Social dimensions: social policy, community engagement, ethics, Indigenous knowledges and participatory methods.
• Environmental practice: environmental impact assessment, conservation practice, waste and resource management, and climate risk evaluation.
• Business core: financial and managerial accounting, micro- and macro-economics, marketing fundamentals, organisational behaviour and operations management.
• Applied and research skills: research methods, statistics for social and environmental analysis, project management and a capstone or professional placement focussed on real-world sustainability or business challenges.
• Electives and specialisation: options allow you to tailor the degree toward areas such as sustainability reporting, social enterprise, policy and governance, or international development.

The program structure typically spans multiple years of full-time study, with progressively advanced units and a professional or community placement in later years to apply knowledge in an organisational context.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on meeting general undergraduate entry criteria for Australian Catholic University. Common pathways include a competitive secondary school rank (such as an ATAR or equivalent), successful completion of recognised vocational education and training (VET) qualifications, or demonstrated work and life experience for mature-age entry.

Specific entry expectations often include:

• A satisfactory secondary school certificate or recognised equivalent. Exact minimum selection ranks vary by campus and intake.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent qualification in line with university policy.
• Applicants with relevant VET study, bridging courses or prior higher education may be eligible for credit transfer.
• Some campuses or specialisations may consider additional selection criteria such as personal statements or interviews for competitive places.

Prospective students should consult ACU's admissions information or contact the university for advice about pathways, recognition of prior learning and campus-specific requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped to work at the intersection of sustainability and business across public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Typical roles include:

• Sustainability officer or coordinator in corporations, local government or higher education.
• Environmental or social impact consultant advising on sustainability strategy, reporting and compliance.
• Corporate social responsibility (CSR) or sustainability communications roles focused on stakeholder engagement and reporting.
• Community development practitioner or program officer in NGOs and government agencies.
• Policy adviser or analyst working on environmental, social or development policy.
• Entrepreneurial roles in social enterprise and sustainable business start-ups.

The business component supports roles in management, marketing, human resources and operations, while the sustainability component prepares graduates to lead or advise on initiatives that reduce environmental footprint and enhance social outcomes.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises values-driven education, small-class teaching and a focus on social justice—principles that align strongly with sustainability practice. The university offers a curriculum that combines theoretical understanding with applied, work-integrated learning and opportunities for community engagement.

Key advantages include:

• Interdisciplinary approach linking environmental and social issues with practical business skills.
• Work-integrated learning and industry placements that build employability and professional networks.
• Access to campus-based research centres and partnerships focused on sustainability, social inclusion and Indigenous knowledge.
• Flexible study options across multiple ACU campuses and online units to accommodate diverse student needs.

These features make the program suitable for students seeking to advance sustainable practice within businesses, government and community organisations while grounding their work in ethical and socially responsible frameworks.