Bachelor of Applied Business

(Business Management)

Prepare for a career with momentum. This degree harnesses strategic learning, practical experience and industry-designed projects to ensure you build capability and confidence in modern business environments. You’ll analyse real business challenges, develop solid leadership skills and complete an industry placement that will set you apart from the competition the moment you graduate.


Applied learning from day one
Work-ready qualifications backed by UNSW
Industry built and taught

Is this degree right for you?

The Bachelor of Applied Business (Business Management) is designed for people who want to develop practical skills, leadership capability, and the confidence to navigate today’s business environments.

Whether you’re starting out, returning to study, changing direction, or already working in business and looking to progress further, you’ll gain industry experience, meaningful support, and a recognised qualification that can open doors and help you move forward.

Gain the skills that matter in today’s workplaces

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Leadership that makes an impact

Build skills in motivating teams, leading through change, and making confident decisions in fast-moving environments.

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Data-informed decision making

Learn how to interpret data, use industry systems and software, and turn insights into practical business strategies.

Strategy Chess - Blue
Strategic thinking for modern business

Understand how organisations operate, solve complex problems, and plan for growth in dynamic markets. You'll hear from guest facilitators working in organisations including Freedom Furniture, Associated British Foods, Realtair, Australia Defence Force, and Australian Institute of Company Directors.

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Digital and operational fluency

May gain experience with the systems and software used in today’s workplaces such as MYOB, Xero, Excel, Power BI and other core industry tools.

Learn by doing, from day one

The Bachelor of Applied Business (Business Management) is built on a foundation of work-integrated learning, right from the beginning. This means you will practically apply your knowledge regularly to reinforce everything you are being taught. Every term, you’ll complete industry-designed projects, working with actual project briefs and real data from existing companies.

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Industry projects

Group assignments help you build vital teamwork and communication skills.

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Real-world project briefs

Employer-designed challenges mirror modern workplace expectations.

Two groups of people are working

No exams

Assessments are practical, collaborative and scenario-based.

As a General Manager of People & Culture, I see leadership as one of the most critical and sought-after capabilities in today’s market. Organisations that succeed do so because strong people strategy sits at the centre of commercial performance. UNSW’s Bachelor of Applied Business reflects this reality.

The degree is cutting-edge in its design, built from the ground up with input from seasoned professionals across a range of industries. This ensures the curriculum is grounded in real-world business challenges and aligned to current employer expectations. Its applied focus develops job-ready capability, commercial awareness, and professional confidence.

From my perspective, this course propels graduates beyond theory into meaningful workplace contribution. It builds leadership capability and transferable skills that remain relevant across industries, functions, and stages of a career.

Sarah Chemouni
GM - People & Culture Freedom Furniture

Where this degree can take you

National skills data from Jobs and Skills Australia shows that more than a third of assessed occupations are in shortage, with strong future demand particularly across high-skilled professional roles, including many business, HR, and project management positions.

Source: Hays 2025 Skills Report 

Exciting and competitive opportunities exist across many industries and sectors, including government, not-for-profit, local councils, health care, education, and startups.  

Potential career outcomes can include the following positions:

  • Business manager (assistant)
  • Business administrator
  • Operations manager (assistant)
  • Team leader / supervisor
  • Office manager
  • Project coordinator
  • Project manager (junior)
  • Change management coordinator
  • Business analyst (junior)
  • Business intelligence analyst (junior)
  • Risk and compliance analyst (junior)
  • Human resources coordinator
  • Marketing coordinator
  • Brand assistant
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) officer
  • Customer experience officer
  • Accounts administrator
  • Finance assistant
  • Risk Support Officer (assistant)
  • Governance Officer (assistant)
  • Sustainability reporting officer (assistant)
  • Client services coordinator
  • Service delivery coordinator

What you’ll learn in this degree

Today’s organisations need individuals who can think strategically, lead with confidence, and adapt at pace. People who understand both the human and technical aspects of business.

This degree was co-designed and is taught by industry specialists to address these demands.

Across three years, you’ll learn how to analyse real business problems, lead people, design solutions and make informed decisions using data and the latest industry tools. Through real-world projects, industry placement, and hands-on assessments, you’ll graduate not only career-ready, but confident, capable, and connected.

By the end of your Bachelor of Applied Business (Business Management), you’ll be able to:

  • demonstrate advanced leadership and management skills to adapt to and influence outcomes in a range of complex business settings.
  • develop and implement strategic business plans using critical thinking, advanced analytical skills and innovative problem solving techniques.
  • apply ethical principles and governance frameworks into business practices, justifying decisions within a robust ethical framework.
  • communicate complex ideas effectively to stakeholders in diverse business environments.
  • critically analyse and apply data analytics and digital tools to generate strategic business insights that guide decision making in complex, dynamic environments.
  • adapt to global and domestic business trends and apply culturally responsive strategies in management practices.
  • 48
    units of credit

    8
    core courses

    The information provided is correct as of 15 January 2026.

    Core courses

    • In the Applied Management Fundamentals course, you will learn the core functions of management - planning, organising, leading and controlling. The course covers strategic planning, resource management and performance management. Case studies from companies like BHP and Rio Tinto illustrate management challenges in large-scale operations.

    • This course introduces the principles of accounting, focusing on the preparation and analysis of financial statements. You will learn about the key components of financial statements, including Balance Sheets, Statement of Profit and Loss, Statement of Cash Flows and Statement of Changes in Equity. The course covers fundamental accounting concepts such as double-entry bookkeeping, accruals and the accounting equation. Through practical exercises and case studies, students will develop the skills needed to prepare and interpret financial statements, which are crucial for decision-making.

    • This course covers professional communication skills, both written and verbal, that are essential in today’s business environment. You will learn how to write business reports, deliver presentations and use digital tools for communication. Special emphasis is placed on tailoring communication to different audiences and maintaining professional integrity in all interactions. Case studies from ASX companies such as Qantas and Westpac will explore effective communication strategies in business operations and crisis management.

    • This course introduces leadership concepts, theories and practices across modern professional environments. You will explore various leadership styles (transformational, transactional, authentic and servant), decision-making processes and the ethical responsibilities of a leader. The course covers topics such as team dynamics, adaptive leadership, strategic leadership and the role of a leader in driving success through continuous improvement. By engaging with practical exercises, case studies and group projects, you will develop your leadership skills and confidence in leading teams, making strategic decisions, and understanding the broader impact of leadership on organisational outcomes. As a core course across multiple disciplines, this subject highlights how effective leadership principles can be applied in diverse fields, including IT, Business and Engineering.

    • This course introduces marketing principles, including consumer behaviour, market segmentation, branding and digital marketing and how this will create and share value for the organisation and its customers. You will learn to develop marketing strategies that align with business objectives. Case studies from manufacturing and retail organisations such as Coca-Cola and Woolworths will provide practical insights into marketing in competitive industries.

    • This course explores the core principles of data analysis for business decision-making. You will learn how to collect, interpret and present data to generate insights that support effective managerial decision-making. By using tools such as Excel, Power BI, R and Tableau, you will develop the ability to apply data-driven insights to address key business challenges. Case studies from industries such as retail, finance and manufacturing will show how businesses leverage data to improve operational efficiency and decision-making.

    • This course introduces the basic legal principles that underpin business operations, with a focus on contract law, employment law, consumer protection, risk management and compliance. You will learn how to identify and mitigate legal risks in business settings, ensuring compliance with Australian laws and regulations. Case studies from companies such as Woolworths and Coles will illustrate how legal challenges can impact businesses.

    • This course introduces you to fundamental economic principles, including supply and demand, market structures, fiscal policy and the role of government in economic management. You will explore how economic factors influence business decisions and operations. Case studies from the Australian economy will be used to demonstrate the practical application of economic theory in business contexts.

  • 96
    units of credit

    Year 1 plus 6
    additional core courses

    Industry placement*
    (12 units of credit)

    * Students wishing to exit with an Associate Degree qualification must complete the required industry placement in year 2 and complete the core courses in years 1 and 2. Students intending to continue to the full bachelor’s degree may choose to undertake the industry placement in year 2 or 3.

    The information provided is correct as of 15 January 2026.

    Core courses

    • This course focuses on strategic planning and decision-making in business to maximise competitive advantage for organisations. You will learn how to develop and implement business strategies, considering both internal and external factors. Tools like SWOT analysis and Porter’s Five Forces will be used to assess external business environments. Tools such as Value Chain, BCG Growth Matrix and the Ansoff Matrix will be used to assess the internal business environment. Case studies from BHP and Wesfarmers will illustrate how large organisations develop competitive strategies.

    • This course covers the principles of human resource management, focusing on recruitment, performance management, employee relations and legal compliance. You will explore how HRM aligns with business strategy and supports organisational success. Case studies from Westpac and Telstra demonstrate effective HR practices.

    • This course focuses on developing and implementing digital business strategies in response to the increasing digitalisation of the global economy. You will explore the role of technology in transforming business models, enhancing customer relationships and creating new value propositions. Topics include e-commerce, CRM, digital marketing, data analytics and digital transformation strategies. Case studies from companies like Amazon, Afterpay and Woolworths will highlight how digital strategies can drive growth, foster innovation and build long-lasting customer relationships.

    • This course explores the challenges and opportunities of managing businesses in an international context. You will learn how cultural differences influence leadership, communication and decision-making. Topics include globalisation, cross-cultural leadership, managing international teams and international business ethics. Case studies from companies like Cochlear and Rio Tinto will provide insights into how Australian businesses manage their operations across different cultural and regulatory environments. 

    • This course provides you with an understanding of corporate finance principles, including capital budgeting, financial markets and risk management. You will explore how companies make investment and financing decisions, with real-world case studies from Commonwealth Bank and BHP. Topics will include valuation methods, capital structure and cost of capital, with an emphasis on financial decision-making in corporate settings. 

    • This course covers the use of data analytics to inform business decision-making. You will learn how to collect, interpret visualise and analyse data to support decisions in areas such as marketing, finance and operations. Tools like Excel, Power BI and Tableau will be used to analyse data and create business insights. Case studies from Amazon and Woolworths will provide examples of how companies use data to drive performance. 

    Elective courses

    • Undertake an industry placement in a real business environment, applying your knowledge and skills in a professional setting. This placement will allow you to gain practical experience, develop professional networks and understand the day-to-day operations of a business.

    • This course provides you with an understanding of the principles and practices of negotiation and conflict resolution in business settings. You will explore negotiation strategies, communication techniques and the psychology of negotiation, alongside conflict resolution frameworks that help resolve disputes in various business environments. The course will include both theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, such as role-playing and simulated negotiations, to help you develop effective negotiation skills. Case studies from industries like real estate, manufacturing and professional services will demonstrate how successful negotiation and conflict resolution can lead to better business outcomes and stronger relationships with stakeholders. 

    • This course examines the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its growing importance in contemporary business. You will learn how companies can operate ethically, contribute to sustainable development and engage stakeholders responsibly. Emphasis will be placed on the role of data and digital tools in enhancing CSR initiatives, allowing businesses to measure and communicate their impact more effectively. Case studies from companies like Woolworths and BHP will illustrate how CSR initiatives, supported by data insights, can strengthen business reputation and support long-term sustainability goals.

  • 144
    units of credit

    Year 1 and 2 plus 6
    core courses, capstone project and electives

    Industry placement*
    (12 units of credit)

    * Students exiting with a Bachelor of Applied Business (Business Management) need to select an industry placement in either year 2 or year 3, with electives taken in the alternate year. Students who completed an industry placement in year 2 will complete two electives in year 3 and vice versa.

    The information provided is correct as of 15 January 2026.

    Core courses

    • This course focuses on advanced leadership theories and the management of organisational change. You will learn how to lead teams through transformations, manage crises and foster innovation in a business setting. Case studies from Australia Post and ANZ illustrate leadership during times of change and uncertainty.

    • This course examines Enterprise Risk, corporate governance frameworks, and ethical decision-making in business. You will explore how organisations identify, assess, and mitigate risks while ensuring governance structures promote transparency and accountability. The course covers the roles and responsibilities of corporate boards, regulatory compliance, and risk management frameworks, such as ISO 31000. Case studies from large companies like Commonwealth Bank and Telstra will highlight governance failures, risk mismanagement, and best practices for improving corporate integrity. Smaller companies will also be studied to gain insight into the impact and influence of risk and governance on organisations of smaller scale. 

    • This course focuses on the strategic role of human resource management (HRM) in achieving business goals. You will explore advanced HRM practices such as talent acquisition, employee development and performance management, with a focus on aligning HR strategies with business objectives. Case studies from Google and Microsoft demonstrate how strategic HRM supports organisational growth and innovation. 

    • This course provides a comprehensive introduction to project management frameworks and methodologies, including Agile and Waterfall, used to manage projects from inception to completion across various industries. You will develop essential skills in project scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and stakeholder communication while gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard tools such as JIRA and Microsoft Project to enhance team collaboration and task tracking.

    • The Capstone Project allows you to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained throughout the program to a real-world business challenge. You will work individually or in groups to solve a complex business problem for a hypothetical or real client, focusing on areas such as strategy, operations, marketing, or finance. This project will integrate various aspects of their learning to demonstrate their ability to think critically, apply business theory, and offer innovative solutions.

    Elective courses

    • Undertake an industry placement in a real business environment, applying your knowledge and skills in a professional setting. This placement will allow you to gain practical experience, develop professional networks and understand the day-to-day operations of a business.

    • This course introduces you to digital transformation as a key driver of innovation in business. You will explore how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain and cloud computing reshape business processes, customer engagement and competitive strategies. Case studies from companies like IBM and Amazon will demonstrate how organisations harness digital transformation to maintain a competitive edge and drive growth.

    • This course explores the role of management accounting in strategic decision-making within global organisations. You will learn how to use management accounting tools and techniques to inform business strategies, manage costs and improve performance in diverse business contexts. The course emphasises the importance of understanding cultural and market differences in financial planning, costing, budgeting and performance evaluation. Case studies from multinational companies like Nestlé and Unilever illustrate how management accounting practices can vary across regions and how cultural considerations impact financial decision-making.

Entry requirements

  • Applicants who have completed the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) or an equivalent Australian senior secondary qualification must meet the following entry requirements:

    • Successfully complete band 3 or above in at least three HSC subjects relevant to the program.

    Example subjects include:

    • Business Studies
    • Economics
    • Mathematics Standard or Advanced
    • Legal studies
    • Enterprise computing
    • Retail services
    • Hospitality
    • Society and culture  

    Equivalent qualifications from other Australian states and international senior secondary qualifications will be considered.

  • Applicants who do not meet the standard HSC entry requirements as outlined above may be eligible through one of the following pathways:

    1. Vocational qualification
      A Certificate IV or higher in a relevant discipline (e.g., Business, Finance, Marketing, Leadership and Management) or completion or partial completion of a diploma or higher qualification in a related field.
    2. Industry experience
      Applicants with significant professional experience (minimum of two years in a business-related role) may be eligible on a case-by-case basis. An optional competency-based assessment may be required to demonstrate knowledge and skills relevant to the program.

    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit transfer may be available for eligible applicants based on prior study or work experience.

Academic calendars

The academic calendar consists of important dates throughout your study period such as orientation, census dates, study weeks, exam weeks and breaks for your program or course of study.

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Intakes:

October
OrientationStart of week oneCensusTerm end
01 October 20265 October 202623 October 2026*27 November 2026

* Friday of week 3 (or the following Monday if Friday is a public holiday).

Applied Degree fees

2026 tuition fee: A$22,320 per year*
Total program fee: A$66,960* 

*Tuition fees are reviewed annually and may be subject to change.

Financial assistance in the form of FEE-HELP may be available. FEE-HELP is a loan from the Australian Government that helps eligible students defer repayments for all or part of their tuition fees. For more information, refer to FEE-HELP.  

Please note: This information is provided as a general guide and applies to full-fee paying domestic students.

Scholarships

If you're starting your degree in 2026, you could be eligible for a scholarship.

The UNSW College advantage

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Backed by UNSW Sydney

Study with UNSW College, a fully owned entity of UNSW Sydney - a world top 20 university. You’ll graduate with a qualification backed by a globally recognised institution, access to campus facilities and resources, and credibility that is valued across business, management and professional services roles.

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Flexible study options

Applied Degrees include built-in exit points after one, two or three years, allowing you to graduate with a diploma, associate degree or bachelor's qualification. This flexibility gives you control over your pace and progression - whether you’re balancing study with work, building formal credentials, or planning your next career step.

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Support at every stage

Study in small, engaged classes with personalised feedback and weekly lecturer consultations. Dedicated wellbeing, learning, progress, and careers teams support you throughout your degree, helping you stay confident and motivated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re wondering about workload or career options, or anything in between, we encourage you to explore our frequently asked questions. If your queries aren’t covered, don’t hesitate to contact our team.

  • Graduates of the Bachelor of Applied Business (Business Management) are prepared for early-career professional roles across business, administration, operations, projects, people management and client focused environments. The degree combines applied learning with  industry experience, meaning you’ll graduate with both knowledge and workplace capability, which supports progression into a wide range of roles.

    Specific outcomes will vary based on your previous experience, personal strengths, and the opportunities you pursue.

  • The associate degree and bachelor degree include a compulsory industry placement or practicum experience. This placement takes place at the end of Year 2 or Year 3 and runs for a period of 8 weeks.

    This structured component enables you to apply your learning in a professional context, build workplace capability and gain practical experience relevant to your field of study. Dedicated support is provided to guide you through preparation, application and successful completion of this requirement.

  • No, you do not need an ATAR to apply for this program.

    Entry is based on meeting the academic entry requirements, which may include HSC subject results, prior study, vocational qualifications or relevant professional experience (for non school leavers).

    Read about the full entry criteria.

  • This program has been designed to be flexible and supportive, with multiple qualification exit points and a learning model that recognises students may have other commitments outside of their studies.

  • You’ll be assisted throughout your studies by a supportive framework and dedicated network of academic and student services, including:

    • small class sizes and personalised feedback
    • weekly lecturer consultation hours
    • academic and study skills support
    • wellbeing, progress and careers teams.

    Whether you’re returning to study, changing direction or starting your first qualification, you’ll have access to guidance that helps you stay engaged and supported. Learn more about the full range of support services.

  • This is an applied business degree, meaning learning is grounded in real-world contexts. Instead of relying on traditional exams, you will: 

    • work on industry designed projects
    • respond to client-style briefs
    • analyse real business challenges and data
    • complete scenario based and collaborative assessments
    • undertake structured industry placement.

    This approach is designed to help you build both knowledge and workplace capabilities while you study.

  • Throughout the program, you’ll gain experience with tools and systems commonly used in business environments, for example:

    • MYOB and Xero
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Power BI
    • A range of contemporary business and collaboration platforms. 

    These tools are integrated into project work, assessments and learning activities to reflect current workplace practice.

  • Assessment is practical, applied and project-based. You’ll be assessed through activities such as:

    • Group and individual projects
    • Client style or industry informed briefs
    • Presentations and reports
    • Problem solving and scenario responses
    • Reflective learning tasks.

    This assessment approach allows you to demonstrate your skills in a way that closely mirrors real workplace expectations.

  • Each program offers flexible exit points, allowing you to graduate with a recognised qualification after one, two, or three years of study. You may exit with a Diploma after year 1, an Associate Degree after year 2, or complete the full three-year bachelor’s degree, provided you have met the specific course completion requirements.

    If you’re considering exiting early with one of these qualifications, you’ll need to discuss your plans with the Academic Support teams so they can advise you on program timing, eligibility and administrative requirements.

    Your support teams will work with you to ensure your transition is as smooth as possible.

  • This degree has been designed to prepare you for the realities of current workplaces, through:

    • Applied, project-based learning
    • Structured industry placement
    • Industry aligned curriculum
    • Small classes and personalised support
    • The backing and recognition of UNSW, a world top 20 university.

    The result is a robust program that focuses not only on academic knowledge but also confidence, capability and genuine work-readiness.

Turn ambition into action

Applications open soon. Register your interest to be notified and take the next step with UNSW College when applications open.

Why study with UNSW College?

Launch your future at a global top 20 university
When you successfully complete your Diploma at UNSW College, you can progress straight into the second year of a UNSW Sydney bachelor’s degree – just like 90% of our diploma graduates.
Your proven pathway to success

With more than 60 years’ experience and over 125,000 graduates, UNSW College knows what it takes to help students achieve their goals and thrive at university.

Surrounded by support
From academic support to health, wellbeing, accommodation and accessibility services – you’ll be backed by a full circle of care to help you succeed.

UNSW College delivers its Foundation Studies, Academic English, Diplomas, and Pre-Masters Program, under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).

UNSW College delivers its Applied Degrees under TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).

UNSW College also delivers UNSW Diplomas on behalf of UNSW Sydney under CRICOS Provider Code 00098G; UNSW Sydney TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12055 (Australian University).

See unswcollege.edu.au/esos for more information.

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