Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This combined degree blends core commerce subjects with applied business administration studies. Early years focus on foundational topics such as microeconomics and macroeconomics, financial and management accounting, quantitative methods and business law. As you progress you choose majors and electives from areas like accounting, finance, marketing, human resource management, international business, business analytics and entrepreneurship.

Typical modules include:

• Financial Accounting – introduction to reporting, statements and compliance principles.
• Managerial Accounting – budgeting, costing and decision support for managers.
• Corporate Finance – valuation, capital budgeting and risk management basics.
• Marketing Principles – consumer behaviour, marketing strategy and digital channels.
• Organisational Behaviour and HR – leadership, teams and people management.
• Business Law and Ethics – legal environment, governance and ethical frameworks.
• Data Analysis/Business Analytics – statistics, spreadsheets, data visualisation and decision modelling.
• Strategy and Capstone – integrative projects, case studies and simulations linking theory to organisational practice.

ACU programmes commonly include work‑integrated learning components such as industry projects, case competitions or internships, and opportunities to undertake applied research and community‑facing projects that reflect the university’s emphasis on ethical leadership and social responsibility.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on recognised secondary qualifications (for example a state Year 12 certificate or international equivalent) or equivalent tertiary study. Typical applicants need an appropriate rank or ATAR as determined by the university for domestic students; international applicants present an equivalent high‑school credential plus English language proficiency. Mature‑age applicants without recent study may be considered via a pathway or special entry scheme. Specific prerequisites may apply for some majors (for example mathematics or quantitative methods), and recognised prior learning or credit transfers can shorten the duration of the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of entry‑level and early career roles across sectors. Common destinations include:

• Accounting and audit roles in firms or in‑house finance teams
• Financial analyst, treasury or investment support positions
• Marketing coordinator, digital marketing or brand roles
• Human resources advisor or talent management positions
• Business analyst, operations or project support roles
• Management consulting, business development or small business management
• Policy, program or administrative roles in government and not‑for‑profit organisations

Many graduates also pursue professional accreditation (for example in accounting or financial services) or further study such as honours, postgraduate coursework or MBA programmes to specialise or advance into senior roles.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises values‑driven education with a focus on ethical leadership, community engagement and social justice. The university offers smaller class sizes and close academic support which can be helpful for applied learning and group work. Across ACU campuses there are opportunities for industry placements, community projects and interdisciplinary collaboration with other health, education and social sciences programs.

Students also benefit from practical learning facilities, career services and professional development activities such as workshops, employer networking events and mentoring. Flexible study modes—including on‑campus and online units—help students balance study with other commitments.