Deakin's MBA given 5 star rating

Deakin University's MBA has been given top billing, placing it firmly alongside courses offered by Australia's leading tertiary institutions.

The Graduate Management Association of Australia (GMAA) assesses every MBA offered in the country for standard and value. In the recently released 2008 ratings, Deakin's MBA was awarded five star status and the MBA (international) was given a four star rating. The result puts Deakin's MBA in company with the traditionally high ranking universities such as University of Melbourne and Monash, plus a select group of prestigious interstate universities.

Head of Deakin's MBA program Associate Professor Peter Oppenheim is delighted with the announcement. "We have gradually been improving the course and this year we have achieved the five stars," he said.

A number of factors have contributed to the program's success, added Assoc. Prof. Oppenheim, who has been program director for the past four years. "We have been continually monitoring the marketplace and responding to the needs of the students, and we have a very active program of student involvement in business. "Students can undertake a two credit point business practicum or a one credit point business internship. "Both of these units give students valuable practical experience in the business world," he added. "This is exactly what a large number of students said that they would like to see incorporated in our offerings."

The GMAA is the nationally recognised association for graduates of an MBA, DBA or other postgraduate business management qualifications. Its members include senior managers, financial specialists, consultants and academics. Seen as a bridge between the business world and management education, the association provides valuable networking opportunities for members in the advancement of their career.

"The placement of five stars against its MBA means Deakin University is recognised as providing a set of superior programs," Assoc. Prof. Oppenheim said. "Deakin University has always been a leader in distance education and now that we have achieved a five star rating It means that our entire program is viewed as being one of the top MBA programs in Australia."