Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The program delivers a core foundation in business disciplines alongside major-specific subjects and Indigenous-centred units. Core topics typically include principles of accounting, microeconomics and macroeconomics, business law, business statistics, organisational behaviour, marketing principles, finance and management. Students choose a major (for example accounting, management, marketing, human resource management or economics) and complete major-specific sequences.

• Foundations: introductory accounting, business and management principles, business law, and quantitative methods for business.
• Core commerce: managerial accounting, corporate finance, marketing, organisational behaviour, economics and business statistics.
• Major studies: concentrated units to develop specialist skills in your chosen stream (e.g. financial reporting and taxation for accounting; consumer behaviour and brand management for marketing; employment relations and talent management for HR).
• Indigenous and community-focused units: subjects that explore Indigenous business, governance, community development and culturally informed approaches to leadership and economic participation.
• Capstone and professional practice: an integrative capstone, industry projects or work-integrated learning subjects to apply knowledge in practical settings.

The course structure typically spans three years full-time, with part-time options available. Electives and cross-institutional units allow students to tailor study to career goals, and there are pathways to further study or honours depending on academic performance.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on meeting Australian Catholic University undergraduate admission requirements. Typical pathways include completion of secondary schooling with a university entrance qualification, recognised vocational qualifications, or admission as a mature-age student. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are supported through targeted entry pathways and cohort placement arrangements that recognise diverse backgrounds and experience.

• Secondary qualification (senior secondary certificate) or equivalent, or an approved alternative such as a recognised diploma or work experience for mature-age applicants.
• Indigenous-specific admissions pathways and support programs are available; these may include bridging or foundation studies and a process that considers personal statements, community references or interviews rather than relying solely on school scores.
• Domestic applicants must demonstrate English language competence as required by the university; international students follow ACU international admission and English proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates gain broad commercial knowledge and practical skills applicable across the private, public and community sectors. Career pathways commonly pursued by commerce graduates include roles in accounting and finance, management and operations, marketing and communications, human resources and payroll, and business analytics. The Indigenous cohort focus also prepares graduates for positions that engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, such as community economic development, Indigenous business advisory roles, policy and program delivery in government and nonprofit organisations, and entrepreneurship.

• Accounting technician, financial analyst, payroll officer
• Business analyst, operations or project coordinator, management trainee
• Marketing officer, digital marketing coordinator, market research assistant
• Human resources officer, recruitment and talent management roles
• Indigenous community development practitioner, Indigenous business advisor, policy officer

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers a cohort model and student support designed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, combining academic preparation with culturally safe learning environments. Students benefit from dedicated Indigenous student support services, mentoring, and academic assistance that assist transition to university and study success.

• Small-group cohort delivery that strengthens peer networks and cultural connection.
• Access to Indigenous student support units, scholarships and mentoring programs.
• Opportunities for work-integrated learning, industry projects and community engagement that build employability.
• Flexible study options and pathways to postgraduate study or professional accreditation where applicable.