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Top 10 MBA Courses in Australia for International Students

Last updated: 14 May 2024 Australian Course Guide Business and Management MBA

Pursuing an MBA (Masters in Business Administration) in Australia is a significant decision that opens the door to immense opportunities and global perspectives. Australia is home to some of the reputed B-schools across the globe, and 40% of Australian universities are featured in the Top 200 latest QS World Ranking.

MBA in Australia Highlights

Business schools in Australia provide a solid foundation for career development, high-quality education, and a thriving ecosystem for future professionals. Learn more about the best MBA programs in Australia below and begin your journey towards studying in Australia by arranging a free consultation today.

best mba in australia

MBA in Australia Facts

Total Number of MBA Universities in Australia 50+
Course duration 1 to 2.5 years
MBA specializations available Marketing, finance, accounting, human resource management, economics, healthcare management, international business, supply chain management, etc. 
Admission requirements GPA- 50 to 70% | GMAT 550+| IELTS/PTE/TOEFL | Work experience - 2 to 3 years in the relevant industry
Average tuition fees $AUD 15,000 to $AUD 90,000
Internship and Placement opportunities Offered by Australian Universities
Mode of MBA available Full-time | Part-time | Online MBA
Types of MBA in Australia General MBA, Executive MBA, and MBA with specialization
Average Salary Pay Scale $AUD 85,000 - 305,000 
Top Recruiters Barclays, Woolworths, HSBC Global Asset Management, JP Morgan. 

Top 10 MBA Programs in Australia

Here is the list of the best MBA programs in Australia according to the QS Global MBA Rankings 2024: Oceania.

1. The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne is a public research university established in 1853 in Melbourne, Australia. It is one of Australia’s second-oldest universities and the oldest in Victoria. The university is affiliated with Universitas 21, Go8, APRU, ACU, and Washington University in St. 

The University of Melbourne's MBA program offers full-time, part-time, and online MBAs in different specializations. According to the QS World Ranking 2024, Melbourne Business School ranks first for MBA in Australia with an acceptance rate of 70%. In addition, according to the QS Graduate Employability Ranking 2022, the university secured the 8th position in the world, thus making it the best MBA college in Australia. 

The Melbourne Business School’s MBA program is designed to focus on practical skills for any business application. The curriculum is curated to maximize career impact and provide practical business experience. While enhancing business knowledge, students can also gain an adaptive mindset, leadership skills, and the ability to absorb and apply learning quickly. Through the Personal Effectiveness Program offered by the university, international students can get regular exposure to CEOs and leaders via immersive business experience and other opportunities to work on real-world business problems. 

2. University of New South Wales

The Australian Graduate School of Management is a postgraduate management and business school established in 1977 at the University of New South Wales. According to the QS Global MBA rankings 2023, the business school ranked 31st. It is also ranked #74 in the QS International Trade Ranking 2023. The acceptance and employability rates are 42% and 89%, respectively.

The AGSM full-time MBA program is in the top 10% of the world’s best management schools. The course structure of AGSM@UNSW Business School offers peer-to-peer learning to nurture critical thinking, exceptional knowledge, communication skills, and cultural awareness. It aims to equip a new generation of leaders to make an impact on the accelerating world. 

3. The University of Sydney

The University of Sydney (USYD) is one of Australia's six sandstone universities. It also ranks 4th in Australia in the latest Academic Ranking of World Universities 2023 and is in the top 100. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the university is ranked 19th globally. USYD's acceptance rate is 30%, thus making it one of the top MBA universities in Australia. Some notable alumni are Phillip K. Chapman, Charlie Perkins, and John Bell. 

The University of Business Schools ranks #26th in Masters in Management. In addition, it has been awarded “Triple Accreditation” by three bodies: AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA. The business school ranks 15th among Asia Pacific's top 20 business schools. MBA and Master of Management Programs rank 1st in Australia, with an employability rate of 80%. 

The USYD MBA program offers more than business fundamentals. It aims to nurture and create future leaders who can succeed globally. The curriculum is designed with topics that cover a deep understanding of finance, marketing, strategy, etc. Students will also have the option to undertake an internship.

4. The University of Queensland

The University of Queensland (UQ) is a public research university established in 1909 in Brisbane. It is affiliated with Group of Eight, Universitas 21, ASAIHL, and EdX. According to QS World Rankings 2024, the university ranks 50 worldwide, with an acceptance rate of 40%. The Times Higher Education World University ranks the university in 53rd position. Sir Harry Gibbs, Dimity Dornan, and Kate Morton are notable university alumni. 

UQ’s MBA is ranked 1st in Australia and 49th worldwide by the Economist MBA Ranking 2022. The course curriculum prepares students to become the leaders of tomorrow by understanding the techniques of business principles. In addition, students can receive personalized support from a team of experts, industry mentoring, exclusive career events, and much more. The University of Queensland also offers an Online MBA for working professionals. 

5. Monash University

Monash University is a public research university established in 1958 in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is the second oldest university in the state. Monash University ranks in the world’s top 100 universities and is a member of the prestigious Group of Eight.

Monash Business School ranks 42nd in the 2023 QS World University Rankings, with an acceptance rate of 40%. In addition, it has been awarded “Triple Accreditation” by three bodies: AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA. The university secured 2nd in Australia and 39th in the world by the Times Higher Education Education Rankings 2023. Monash's QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022 is #54, scoring 70.4. 

Monash Business School offers a Global Executive MBA, a Global Executive MBA/ Master of Business, and an Online MBA. The Master of Business program is a two-year on-campus course with an international study module, applied teaching, and engagement with business leaders. Part-time study options are also available for working professionals. 

The curriculum is divided into parts. Part I involves understanding the challenges and strategic decision-making. It covers essential topics such as leadership, corporate finance, economic decision-making, and international business. In Part II, students can opt for various electives, such as design thinking, global trade, leadership in business transformation, and more. 

6. Macquarie University

The Macquarie MBA prepares students for a global career. The curriculum comprises business management foundations, leadership and strategy, international banking and finance. Specializations are available in accounting, business analytics, cyber law, human resource management, property and real estate, and many more. In addition, students will be allowed to participate in collaborative projects; while enhancing business knowledge, students can also gain an adaptive mindset, leadership skills, and the ability to absorb and apply learning quickly.

7. Australian National University

Australian National University is a public research university established in 1946. It is a member of the Group of Eight and other organizations like UNESCO Chairs, IARU, and APRU. The university ranks 1st in Australia and 30th worldwide by the QS World Rankings 2023, with an acceptance rate of 35%. According to QS Graduate Employability Ranking 2023, ANU secured a position of #73, with an overall employment rate of 70%, slightly higher than the national average of 69.5%. 

The Australian National University, College of Business and Economics, offers an Evidence-Based Management Program, considered the best MBA program for international students. The program is available full-time (1.5 years) or part-time (6 years). 

ANU’s Evidence-Based MBA is designed to equip students with the skills to identify, evaluate, and apply the best evidence to inform more effective decision-making. The MBA is suited to students with maturity and background that come from extensive experience in the workplace. It covers all essential business fundamentals, such as operational management, strategy, project management, innovation, entrepreneurship, etc. 

8. University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia (UWA) was established in 1911 in Western Australia. It is accredited with TEQSA and is a member of the international Matariki Network of Universities. The university is consistently ranked in the top 100 universities. According to the QS World Rankings 2024, the university ranks #72 globally. Some notable alumni are - Carmen Lawrence, Geoff Gallop, and Barry Marshall. 

UWA is one of the best MBA colleges in Australia. It offers full-time and part-time MBAs in different specializations. The curriculum is well-structured and offers practical business and leadership skills. The University of Western Australia incorporates experiential learning, team learning, and innovative teaching methods that acquire a deep understanding of all business areas. 

9. University of Technology Sydney

University of Technology Sydney (UTS) was established in 1988 and accredited by TEQSA. It is academically affiliated with ATN, UA, and WUN. According to the QS World University Rankings 2023, UTS ranks 9th in Australia and 90th globally. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 ranks the university 133rd worldwide. As of 2022, the acceptance rate is 30%, and the employability rate is 85.7%. David Murray, Lara Pitt, and Emma Watkins are notable university graduates. 

The UTS has flexible MBA programs to fit students' interests and needs. The full-time MBA program is available for two years (full-time) and four years (part-time). The curriculum provides a solid foundation for general business skills and practices. Students can accelerate their careers with a sector-leading career development program co-developed by industry experts. They have access to choose from a wide range of disciplines. Students will also learn to work on real-world projects while building their networks. 

10. University of South Australia

The University of South Australia MBA program is designed to challenge, teach, and build real-world business skills and creative problem-solving techniques. It is ranked 10th in Oceania, and students can develop a sound understanding of business fundamentals, industry connections, fact-based studies, and much more. The course duration is available for 1.5 and 2 years. 

Advantages of studying an MBA

An MBA or Masters in Business Administration is a highly career-oriented program that outlines the process of working as a business professional. It has an extensive curriculum comprises a strong foundation in business fundamentals, finance, management, accounting, marketing, business ethics, managerial skills, human resource management, and more. Business professionals can examine case studies to analyze their proficiency in handling various business segments.

Why study an MBA in Australia?

  1. The MBA in Australia is a blend of practical and theoretical knowledge that polishes the basic skills and tools necessary for business problem-solving. 
  2. Australia offers quality education by promoting the all-round development of a student, focusing on developing communication, personal, and leadership skills to encourage creativity amongst students. 
  3. The MBA cost in Australia is inexpensive, and many scholarships and financial aid are provided to support students' economic status. 
  4. Courses prepare students for senior management positions and provide an intensive understanding of global business and practices.
  5. Lastly, Australia has an incredible lifestyle and friendly atmosphere that attracts a diverse range of local and international students. 

Study MBA in Australia

Are you interested in studying for an MBA at an Australian business school? Arrange a free consultation today, and we can discuss your available study options, how to apply, and what entry requirements must be met.

FAQ

Is it worth getting an MBA in Australia?

Australia has a strong economy, which provides abundant opportunities for MBA graduates. As of 2022, the overall employability rate for PG international students is 57.9%. An MBA in Australia can lead to high-paying jobs in companies like Microsoft, EY, and West Corp.

Which MBA is in high demand in Australia?

MBA in Finance and Human Resource Management are in high demand in Australia. Some popular work profiles are HR Manager, Data Scientist, and Talent Acquisition Manager. Also, an MBA in accounting, leadership, and international business has a great career scope. 

Is it easy to get PR after an MBA in Australia?

Yes, students who have completed their master's can get PR quickly. However, they must meet specific requirements, such as English language proficiency and educational qualifications. 

Can I get a job in Australia after my MBA?

Job opportunities in Australia are increasing exponentially. There’s a high demand for MBA graduates in finance, accounting, human resource management, sales, and marketing. The average pay for an MBA graduate is $AUD 136913, which can go up to $AUD 305 000. 

How long can I stay in Australia after completing my MBA?

Following their MBA graduation, students can apply for a Temporary Graduate Subclass 485 Visa, which allows them to stay for up to 18 months. However, they must study in Australia for at least 16 months to get a work permit. 

How much does living in Australia while studying for an MBA cost?

International students' average annual living expenses can range between AUD 30,000 and 34,000, and their average monthly expenses can reach $2,000. 

Can I do an MBA in Australia without a GMAT?

Yes, many MBA colleges in Australia offer MBA admission without a GMAT. However, they consider work experience, academic qualifications, and professional achievements.

Universities featured in this article:

  • University of Melbourne
  • University of New South Wales
  • University of Queensland
  • University of Sydney
  • Monash University
  • Macquarie University
  • Australian National University
  • University of Western Australia
  • University of Technology Sydney
  • University of South Australia
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"SI-Australia helped me successfully apply to study business in Australia and I cannot thank them enough for their support. They assisted me with each step, ensuring I was aware of all my options in terms of program and university selection, making the process totally stress free."

Isabella Ramos Business and Management

Isabella Ramos