Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This dual degree combines foundational business disciplines with global studies, typically completed over four years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent). You will develop quantitative and managerial skills alongside an understanding of international politics, development, and cross-cultural communication.

• Business core: accounting and finance fundamentals, marketing principles, management and organisational behaviour, economics for business, business law, operations and supply chain management, entrepreneurship and small business management, strategic management and business ethics.
• Global Studies core: international relations and global politics, comparative political economy, global governance and international law, development studies and humanitarian policy, human rights and ethical frameworks, regional studies and contemporary geopolitical issues.
• Capstone and applied learning: capstone projects, work-integrated learning or industry placements, and option to undertake an internship related to international business, development or diplomacy.
• Electives and language study: electives allow specialisation in areas such as international marketing, trade and customs, sustainability, migration studies, and the opportunity to study a foreign language to enhance cross-cultural capabilities.
• International experience: students are encouraged to participate in exchange or study abroad programs, short-term international field trips, or collaborative projects with ACU’s international partners to gain practical global exposure.

Entry requirements

Entry is typically based on completion of secondary school qualifications, or an equivalent recognised qualification. Applicants may be considered through multiple pathways including direct school entry, interstate or international secondary qualifications, recognised diplomas, or mature-age admission with relevant work experience.

• Academic entry: a completed senior secondary qualification with an appropriate university entrance rank or its recognised equivalent.
• Alternative pathways: applicants with completed vocational qualifications, prior tertiary study or significant workplace experience can be considered through ACU’s alternative admission schemes.
• English language: international applicants must meet ACU’s English language requirements by providing an accepted English test score or evidence of prior study in English.
• Additional requirements: some campuses may interview applicants or ask for a personal statement outlining interest in international and business topics; check the ACU campus-specific admissions guidance for details.

Career prospects

Graduates of this combined degree are well placed for roles that require both commercial acumen and international awareness. Common career paths include:

• International business and trade roles, such as export manager, international marketing coordinator or trade compliance officer.
• Policy, research and advisory positions in government agencies, think tanks or international organisations focused on trade, development and diplomacy.
• Roles in non-government organisations and humanitarian agencies working on international development, program management or advocacy.
• Careers in consulting, corporate strategy or corporate social responsibility where global market understanding and stakeholder engagement are important.
• Supply chain and logistics roles with an international focus, and opportunities in multinational corporations or small-to-medium enterprises expanding overseas.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers a supportive learning environment with a focus on ethical leadership and social justice, reflecting the university’s values across business and global studies teaching. Small class sizes and accessible academic staff enable personalised feedback and strong student engagement.

• Practical focus: ACU emphasises work-integrated learning, industry partnerships and real-world projects that help build employability and professional networks.
• Global opportunities: access to international exchange programs and field-based subjects that provide first-hand experience of cross-cultural and development contexts.
• Campus and support services: multiple campuses with dedicated student support, career services and internship assistance to help transition into the workforce.
• Ethical and community orientation: curriculum that integrates ethical decision-making, sustainability and social responsibility—valuable perspectives for careers in international business and development.