UC’s online Graduate Certificate in Business focuses on the core business skills of decision making and problem solving within a complex business environment.

This course provides theoretical knowledge combined with the practical skills to manage existing organisations or start new businesses, grounded in Canberra’s unique position as the seat of government and a hub for professional services, policy and advocacy.

As a graduate of UC’s Graduate Certificate in Business, you’ll be eligible to apply for our MBA program, which includes the option to add a qualification from the Australian Institute of Company Directors. This double-weighted unit, designed especially for the boardroom, offers reputable governance education with a focus on effective, strategic leadership.

Building a career in government?

Strong leadership and enterprise skills are in-demand in every sector – including government. If you’re growing your public sector leadership career, you may be better aligned to our Graduate Certificate in Business Administration (Government).

What you will learn

Solve complex organisational problems

Learn to analyse and apply discipline-relevant theory, information and developments as you solve issues in diverse and dynamic operational environments.

Become an effective leader

Take the initiative to apply advanced leadership, business and professional skills to creatively manage diverse groups of people, processes and organisations.

Leverage the latest innovations

Plan for and effectively communicate business innovations, new technologies, latest developments and organisational change in a range of contexts.

Make informed critical decisions

Demonstrate high-level judgement and problem-solving skills in complex and uncertain environments, applying research and analytical methods alongside data and evidence-based insights.

Your course pathway

The Graduate Certificate in Business is designed as a foundational exploration of core business functions. After you graduate, you may be eligible to continue your studies with our Master of Business Administration (MBA), which is designed to be customised for your career goals.

Graduate Certificate in Business

4 units | 8 months*

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

12 units | 24 months*

What you will study

The Graduate Certificate in Business comprises 4 units. Each unit duration is 7 weeks. We advise a minimum of 15 to 20 hours of online study per week.

Core Units (Choose 4)

Data-Driven Decision Making and Analytics

Financial Management and Sustainable Finance

Organisational Talent Management

Marketing, Engagement and Behavioural Insights

Managerial Economics and Policy Analysis

Applied Industry Project

Leading Modern Workforces

Strategic Management and Innovation

Course information

Entry requirements

To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Business, applicants must have:

A bachelor qualification or equivalent in any field; OR
Three years' relevant work experience.

*If you do not meet the entry requirements above, you may still be eligible for admission through alternative qualifications or work experience. Please contact a Student Adviser to discuss your options.

Recognition of prior learning

Additional requirements

Fee assistance

Ready to learn more?

Download your course brochure for more detailed information including:

What you’ll study
Recognition of prior learning
Entry requirements
Fees and FEE-HELP

Download brochure

Taught by the best in the industry

“Who you know is as important as what you know, and in being a part of the school, you will join our unparalleled network of industry, professional, government, diplomatic and alumni communities located here in the nation's capital."

Professor Brent Jackson
Head of Canberra Business School