Australian institutions are known across the world for some of the best MBA programs

An MBA is a master’s degree in business administration that outlines the process to work as business professionals and senior executives. Being one of the most pursued courses in the world, an extensive MBA curriculum gives a strong foundation in business fundamentals viz marketing, accounting, finance, managerial skills, strategy, business ethics, and human resources. Business professionals study case studies to test their business insight and to be proficient in handling various business segments.

Are you considering pursuing an MBA in Australia? Renowned for its top-ranked business schools and high-quality education, Australia offers a thriving ecosystem for ambitious professionals. With a diverse range of MBA programs, practical learning opportunities, and strong industry connections, Australian universities provide a solid foundation for career advancement. Moreover, Australia's vibrant multicultural environment, robust economy, and supportive business landscape create an ideal setting for networking and exploring lucrative job opportunities. Whether you seek to enhance your leadership skills, broaden your global perspectives, or fuel your entrepreneurial ambitions, an MBA in Australia can be the transformative step towards achieving your professional goals.

Why study MBA in Australia?

Australia’s scenic view, modern lifestyle, vibrant cities, vast coastline, upgraded infrastructure, and welcoming culture are a few of the things which make it an appealing place to live and study. Every year, numerous students choose to pursue their management course in Australia due to:

  • A wide variety of specialisations: You can choose your major in MBA from a broad range of specialisation subjects that Australian institutions offer, from education management, and sports management, to general subjects like banking and finance

  • Extraordinary education system: Presently, 50 Australian universities offer specialised MBA programs. Their B-schools follow ‘Harvard style’ management degrees, which provide approximately 16 different business subjects, delivered full time, in 16 months-2 years span. The 16-month program is offered by universities that follow a trimester system to help subsidise the cost of an MBA degree for its students

  • Quality education: The MBA programs in Australia are internationally recognised in terms of orientation and updated curriculum as per the latest industry standards

  • All-round development of students: The Australian education system emphasises on both theoretical and practical learning to focus on the all-round development of a student, to develop their communication, personal, and leadership skills, thereby fostering independence and confidence in them

Deciding where to study

The most critical factors significant to the decision of pursuing an MBA in an Australian institution are good placements, proper infrastructure and/or low tuition fees. Other factors that you should keep in mind before zeroing down on any institution include institution’s ranking, curriculum offered, faculty, international accreditations and availability of scholarships.

Top MBA courses in Australia

Australia offers a wide range of top-quality MBA courses that cater to various specializations and career goals. Some of the top MBA courses in Australia include:

  1. Master of Business Administration (MBA): This is the most common and widely recognized MBA program, providing a comprehensive education in business management and leadership.

  2. MBA in Finance: This specialisation focuses on financial management, investment analysis, risk management, and corporate finance strategies.

  3. MBA in Marketing: This program focuses on developing skills in market research, brand management, digital marketing, and advertising strategies.

  4. MBA in Entrepreneurship: This specialisation is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and focuses on developing skills in business planning, innovation, venture capital, and startup management.

  5. MBA in International Business: This program prepares students to navigate the complexities of global business environments, with a focus on international trade, cross-cultural management, and global strategy.

  6. MBA in Healthcare Management: This specialisation combines business management principles with healthcare industry knowledge, preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare organizations.

  7. MBA in Technology Management: This program is ideal for those interested in the intersection of business and technology, focusing on areas such as IT strategy, innovation management, and digital transformation.

Top universities in Australia for MBA

Australia is home to several prestigious universities offering top-quality MBA programs. Here are some of the top universities in Australia for MBA:

Eligibility criteria to study MBA in Australia

The entry requirements depend on the type of qualification you want to opt for. Usually, there are two options – a General Management course (i.e., studying general management subjects or with a focus on any industry) or Master of Business Administration (MBA).

We recommend that you check the exact entry requirements from the institution of your choice or get in touch with an IDP international education expert who can guide you with the right knowledge. However, the most common requirements include:

  • You might need to appear for the GMAT exam as the majority of institutions ask for a good score

  • Most institutions also ask for a 3 or 4-year bachelor’s degree, with a minimum score of 60%

  • You might need at least three years of managerial work experience. However, some universities accept students without any prior work experience as well

  • Also, you are required to submit your English language proficiency scores such as IELTS band scores

Cost of studying MBA in Australia

The MBA Fees in Australia from institution to institution and can approximately range anywhere between AUS $50,000* - AUS $81,400*. In 2019, specific programs like an Executive MBA at the University of Melbourne had a tuition fee of approximately AUS $126,000*, while the Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) costed approximately AUS $103,500*.

Some programs like Master of Business Administration and Master of International Commercial Law at the University of Western Australia cost approximately AUS $122,500*.

Cost of Living in Australia

The cost of living in Australia varies depending on the city or region you choose to live in. Generally, major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane have a higher cost of living compared to smaller cities or regional areas. As a rough estimate, an average monthly budget for a single person in Australia can range from AUD 2,000 to AUD 3,500, excluding accommodation. This estimate covers basic expenses such as food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment. However, it's important to note that these figures can vary depending on personal lifestyle choices and individual circumstances. Here’s the monthly expenses for a single person in Australia:

Expense Category

Estimated Monthly Cost (AUD)*

Accommodation

$800 - $2,000

Groceries

$300 - $500

Transportation

$100 - $200

Utilities (electricity, water, internet)

$150 - $250

Mobile Phone

$50 - $80

Health Insurance

$50 - $150

Dining Out

$300 - $500

Entertainment

$100 - $300

Miscellaneous Expenses

$200 - $300

Total

$2,050 - $4,280

*indicative

Scholarship for MBA in Australia for Indian Students

In Australia, universities and colleges offer a diverse selection of scholarships to support deserving international students in financing their studies. Additionally, the Australian government, along with public and private institutions, provide various scholarships, grants, and bursaries. It is essential to review the eligibility requirements, criteria, and application deadlines before applying for these scholarships.

Read more: Scholarships to study in Australia

Course duration for MBA in Australia

A typical MBA course in an Australian institution is for 15 months - 2 years. However, several universities offer a one-year MBA course as well.

Jobs after MBA in Australia

Once you complete your MBA degree, you can explore immense possibilities and choose any suitable role as :

Account Director

Account Manager

Business Relationship Manager

Sales Manager

Senior Account Director

Business Development Manager

Director of Business Development

Company Co-Founder

Company Director

Finance Director

Finance Manager

General Manager of Finance and Administration

General Manager Operations

Construction Manager

Health Services Administrator

IT Project Manager

Digital Marketing Manager

Marketing Director

Manager Operations

Production Team Manager

Warehouse Manager

Brand Manager

Senior Product Manager

Principal Program Manager

Director of Sales and Marketing

Regional Sales Manager

Average salary after MBA in Australia

According to PayScale data, the average salary after completing an MBA in Australia can vary depending on factors such as work experience, industry, job role, and location. On average, MBA graduates in Australia can expect a higher earning potential compared to those with a bachelor's degree. The average salary range for MBA graduates in Australia is approximately AUD 80,000 to AUD 196,433 per year. However, it's important to note that individual salaries may vary significantly based on factors such as prior work experience, the reputation of the university, specialisation, and negotiation skills. Additionally, salaries can also be influenced by the specific industry and job market conditions at the time of graduation.

Work permit after MBA in Australia

A work visa is mandatory to stay and work in Australia post completion of course. This is the most common work visa for international students who want to work in Australia. You can always reach out to your IDP expert to understand about this in detail.

Visa

Duration

Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)

Usually between 2 - 4 years, depending upon one’s qualifications


It may take around 6 to 12 months for your visa to be processed. The validity of this temporary visa is for a minimum of 18 months to four years and is open to a student who completes at least two years of study in Australia.

Considering the various internship programs and placement potential, Australia stands out in the job market for making skilled MBA professionals. No wonder why a majority of students decide to invest your money in pursuing an MBA program in Australia.

If you want to know more about MBA courses in Australia, get in touch with our international education experts at IDP. They will help you with the university selection and admission procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Ques 1: Is Australia good for MBA?
Ans: Yes, Australia is considered an excellent destination for pursuing an MBA. The country offers high-quality education, a robust business environment, and a multicultural society, making it an ideal choice for international students. Australian universities are known for their reputable MBA programs that provide a strong foundation in business and leadership skills. Moreover, Australia's close ties with the Asia-Pacific region offer valuable networking opportunities and exposure to diverse business cultures. The country also has a strong economy, which creates ample job prospects for MBA graduates. Overall, Australia provides a conducive environment for students to gain a world-class education, expand their professional networks, and pursue rewarding career opportunities in the business field.

Ques 2: Is Australian MBA recognised in India?
Ans: Yes, an Australian MBA holds value and is recognized in India. Australian universities offering MBA programs are renowned for their high academic standards and international accreditation. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business principles and leadership skills. The exposure to a multicultural environment and global business perspectives during the MBA program can be advantageous for Indian students seeking to broaden their horizons and enhance their employability in India's competitive job market. Additionally, the international reputation of Australian universities and the quality of education they offer can contribute to the credibility and marketability of an MBA degree obtained in Australia when seeking employment or career advancement opportunities in India.

Ques 3: Is GMAT compulsory for MBA in Australia?
Ans: The requirement of GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) for MBA programs in Australia varies across universities and colleges. While many Australian business schools do consider GMAT scores as part of the admission process, it is not compulsory for all institutions. Some universities may accept alternative tests such as the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or have their own admission criteria. It is important to research and check the specific requirements of the MBA programs you are interested in to determine whether GMAT is mandatory or if there are any alternative options available.

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