#3 in Australia for business administration
#2 business school in Victoria for career impact
80+ hours work-integrated learning
Why choose Deakin
Learn how to manage and lead an organisation in an international context with one of Australia's premier business education programs.
This internationally-focused version of the MBA provides a business internship experience, and offers opportunities to participate in overseas study tours where academic study is integrated with visits to professional bodies in host countries. This enables you to develop a real appreciation of key aspects of business in a global environment.
For 30 years, the Deakin MBA has offered relevant skills, contemporary knowledge and real experience, while developing the business leaders of tomorrow.
Teamwork, sustainability, globalisation and social and regulatory responsibility are themes that run through the entire MBA program. The course has a strong focus on people, profit, and the environment, which means you’ll graduate with an understanding of the importance of ethical behaviour and sustainable decision-making.
Research, scholarship and industry engagement heavily inform the content of the course. This enables the course to always stay up to date with current and future business trends.
The Deakin MBA program is renowned for its learning opportunities based on experience and observation. Innovative teaching techniques include our intensive residential units where you can complete a unit in one week.
Deakin’s MBA(I) currently holds a 5-star rating from the Graduate Management Association of Australia (GMAA).
Our MBA has been ranked the number 1 online MBA in Australia. Both campus and online modes of study incorporate Deakin's flexible learning model, using electronic conferencing, group-based project work and interaction, high quality course materials, overseas study programs and intensive residential schools.
Our MBA (International) is designed to be a stimulating study experience. You will be able to develop the analytical, creative, and interpersonal skills that are key to a successful career in business.
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A leader in business administration
Study at a business school ranked #3 in Victoria for business administration and globally accredited by AACSB and EQUIS .
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Global business focus
Build knowledge in international banking, trade and operations, preparing you for leadership roles in global business environments.
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Practical learning for every student
Complete a work-integrated learning unit such as an internship, consultancy or international project to apply your knowledge.
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Industry-informed leadership development
Develop strategy and leadership capabilities through a curriculum shaped by real business challenges and industry input.
Connected to industry
Deakin’s strong industry connections help shape your learning. Build practical experience in real workplace contexts through work-integrated learning, mentoring and networking opportunities. Industry advisory boards also help shape our degrees, which means what you study is current, relevant and aligned to what your future employers need.
Deakin puts employability first
Career outcomes
Build advanced global business and leadership capability, preparing you for senior roles across international markets, industries and organisations.
Operations manager
Oversee the day-to-day running of an organisation's operations across global markets, managing processes, teams and resources to keep the business performing efficiently.
- $120k
Typical Australian annual salary
- 9.6%
Projected job growth in 5 years
- 3.9/5
Job satisfaction
Business development manager
Identify new business opportunities, build client relationships and negotiate partnerships to drive growth. Develop sales strategies, secure new business and expand revenue across existing and new markets.
- $115k
Typical Australian annual salary
- 4.1/5
Job satisfaction
Other jobs
- Global business manager
- International strategy consultant
- International marketing director
- Human resources director
- Corporate affairs manager
- Senior project manager
“The MBA (International) offers progressive, real-world learning that prepares students to lead across the Australia-Asia corridor, build regional networks, and create positive change through practical, career-focused business capability.”
Dr Reza KachouieCourse Director, MBA (International)
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 3 2026 applications close 18 October 2026
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
FAQs
Professional experience is not an essential entry requirement for the Master of Business Administration (International) but having it may shorten the time it takes to complete the degree. Check the entry requirements on the course page for full details. The course develops strategy, finance, marketing, leadership and cross-border business skills, supporting consulting, management and business development pathways across global organisations.
Both degrees develop advanced business, leadership and strategic decision-making skills, but the key difference is career stage and focus. Deakin's MBA is designed for mid-to-senior managers with existing leadership experience, helping you advance into executive and director-level roles. The MBA (International) suits those earlier in their career who are building toward management and leadership experience, with a stronger focus on global business, cross-cultural capability and international work-integrated learning opportunities.
Yes, the MBA (International) can support consulting careers because it develops strategy, leadership, finance, marketing and international business capability. You build the ability to analyse complex organisations, communicate recommendations and lead change, which are valuable skills for consulting, management and business development roles.
An international MBA can help you develop the leadership skills needed to succeed in a globally connected business environment. Deakin's Master of Business Administration (International) combines management and strategy expertise with a strong international focus, helping you build cross-cultural communication skills, understand global business challenges and expand your professional perspective. You'll gain practical experience through international learning opportunities and graduate prepared to lead teams, manage projects and make strategic decisions across international markets and organisations.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
What will I study in the Master of Business Administration (International)?
In your first year, you will develop core business knowledge and leadership skills within an international context. In your second year, you will advance into global strategy, tailor your studies and apply your expertise in practical, internationally focused business settings.
Build global business foundations
Understand global business environments
Explore international markets, trade and operations to understand how organisations operate globally.
Develop leadership and strategy skills
Build capability in leading teams and shaping strategy in diverse and dynamic contexts.
Strengthen analytical and business skills
Learn to evaluate financial, operational and strategic decisions in international settings.
Apply and extend global expertise
Advance international business strategy
Explore complex global challenges such as supply chains, sustainability and international finance.
Tailor your learning pathway
Select electives and experiences that align with your global career ambitions.
Gain practical global experience
Undertake work-integrated or international consultancy experiences to apply your skills in real business settings.
Course structure
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements
Units
#MPT code denotes study tour version of the unit.
~MPT code denotes study tour version of the unit. This tour unit is not available from trimester 2 2016.
^MPM701A and MIS770A are Start Anytime units.
The 4 credit points of elective units may form one of the specialisations listed above, or students may choose these units from the range of specialisations or the general elective units listed below:
OR
or any other units with prior written approval of the Course Team Chair.
#MPT code denotes study tour version of the unit
What to expect while studying
As a student in the Faculty of Business and Law, you can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
When can I start?
When you study depends on your course, location and available intakes. Check the table to see when you can start and how study is offered throughout the year.
Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.
| Graduate Learning Outcome | Course Learning Outcome |
| Discipline specific knowledge and capabilities | Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of a contemporary body of knowledge and apply research skills and theories to the evaluation of complex business issues in a global context. |
| Communication | Demonstrate advanced communication skills and intercultural understanding in a diverse range of business and management contexts. |
| Digital literacy | Select and use digital technologies to find, organise, analyse and disseminate complex business ideas. |
| Critical thinking | Apply critical analysis skills to evaluate complex ideas in business and international contexts. |
| Problem solving | Apply problem solving skills to conceptualise, construct and recommend solutions for complex business issues facing local and international organisations. |
| Self-management | Work and learn independently and take responsibility for personal and professional actions. |
| Teamwork | Demonstrate advanced team work skills in diverse organisational contexts. |
| Global citizenship | Analyse and interpret the impact of ethics, culture and internationalisation on contemporary business. |
| Approved by Faculty Board October 2014. |
- Award granted
Master of Business Administration (International)
- Deakin code
- M751
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 056889B Burwood (Melbourne)
Scholarships
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you'll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Applications for 2027 are open
Ready to take the next step? Apply now to start your journey at Deakin and get ready for what’s next.
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 3 2026 applications close 18 October 2026
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
Apply now
Apply direct
Simply create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal and educational details, upload your supporting documents and submit your application.