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Graduate Certificate in Business
The Graduate Certificate in Business develops your understanding of the key disciplines that drive business success in our rapidly digitising world, with the ability to tailor your study to critical specialised functions of interest. It is a Level 8 qualification according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), which places it one level higher in complexity than a bachelor’s degree.
Course Overview
Overview
The Graduate Certificate in Business is an online postgraduate qualification that is designed for newer and ambitious professionals, with entry possible through management experience alone and a study structure that easily accommodates full-time work.
Made up of four core business units, students will discover the complexities of people management, acquire a theoretical and practical understanding of strategy, and learn to evaluate the financial impact of business decisions and activities. The final unit will further knowledge in one of the following areas: Operational Improvement, Entrepreneurship, Business Decision-Making and Analysis, or Business Research Methods.
The Graduate Certificate in Business, as part of our MBA Pathway, can also be used as a method of entry to our Master of Business Administration for those seeking the pinnacle of business degrees without an existing bachelor’s degree. The MBA+ offers you three unique, recognised qualifications in a single learning pathway, ensuring you are empowered to thrive in your function, in leadership, and well into the future.
Who is this Course For?
The Graduate Certificate in Business is designed for individuals who want a holistic understanding of contemporary business practice. Graduates of this program are empowered to find success in business administration as people managers and functional leaders, dependent on the electives that they choose to undertake. We recommend this qualification for individuals in the early to middle stages of their professional lives or those looking for an impactful step up in their recognised abilities. Our highly accessible and supported learning model ensures you can succeed in your studies without making sacrifices to your current work or personal life.
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the Graduate Certificate in Business, students will have:
- Advanced understanding of leading, managing and developing people effectively
- Advanced theoretical and practical understanding of the strategic process and strategic management
- Advanced understanding on using financial information to evaluate the financial impact of business decisions and activities
- Advanced cognitive, technical and communication skills for business managers to select and apply methods and technologies to:
- analyse critically, evaluate and transform information to complete a range of business activities;
- analyse, generate, and transmit business solutions to complex problems;
- transmit knowledge, skills and ideas to others about business; and
- demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement, adaptability and responsibility as a business manager
Units of Study
Successfully completing the four core units of the Graduate Certificate provides you with a formal qualification and these units are stackable towards our MBA+ program. If you decide to pursue this higher degree at a later date, your previous study with us will count towards your total credit.
4 Core Units
- The Art of Leadership
- Managerial Finance
- Business Strategies
- Operational Improvement OR Business Decision-Making OR Business Research Methods OR Entrepreneurship
For a detailed unit description, please contact a Senior Learning Advisor on 1300 658 337 or Download the Course Guide .
Entry Requirements
The Graduate Certificate in Business has entry options based on tertiary qualifications and relevant management experience.
Enter with:
- Bachelor’s degree and two years of relevant management experience
- Diploma or Advanced Diploma and three of years’ management experience
- No formal tertiary qualification but five of years’ relevant management experience
In addition, you must:
- Meet English Requirements; and
- Have access to a computer and internet connection that meet Technology Requirements
Successfully completing the Graduate Certificate in Business gives you a formal qualification and allows you direct entry into the Graduate Diploma in Management. Upon completing the Graduate Diploma in Management, you’ll qualify for direct entry to the Master of Business Administration.
Study Mode
At AIM Business School, postgraduate education has never been more accessible. With all learning materials available fully online, you can choose to study whenever and wherever best suits regardless of your location, lifestyle, and work situation.
Online learning provides flexibility and convenience, which is great for anyone constrained by time or distance. You can complete your qualification when it suits you and at your own pace.
Studying online doesn’t equate to studying alone. You’ll have access to unit introduction videos, regular webinars, self-assessment tasks, and other learning materials all through our unique virtual campus, myABS. This state-of-the-art online learning management system offers a ‘community’ approach to self-directed study where you can share experiences, ideas, and questions through integrated features such as chat forums, live chat, and links with social media platforms.
Course Fee
AIM Business School charges individual unit fees, which are payable prior to the date of commencement of that unit or 14 days after the invoice is generated.
Payment of fees may be made by:
- cheque,
- credit card or
- application for FEE-HELP, a government loan given to eligible students to help pay part or all of their tuition fees.
For students enrolling for courses commencing in 2019 and future years, AIM Business School reserves the right to adjust tuition fees annually.
If you want more information about unit costs and how you can make payments, please view the schedule of fees.
If you want more information about FEE-HELP, please view Fees and FEE-HELP Information.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Students who can provide evidence of previous study at a similar AQF level or demonstrable equivalent experience, may on application, be provided with Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Credit Transfer for up to 50% of a respective course. All applications for RPL will be assessed on an individual basis. For students seeking RPL based on experience only, an administration fee applies per unit for successful applications. For more information about the RPL process, please contact a Senior Learning Advisor on 1300 658 337 or request a callback today.
Additional Information
Why Choose AIM Business School?
Practical, Real-World Learning – No Exams!
There are no exams at AIM Business School. Rather, assessment is based on undertaking realistic projects applied to each participant’s own organisational and industry contexts. Emphasis is placed on contemporary, relevant and interactive case studies. Participants engage in coursework that is entirely applicable to their work to ensure they receive immediate value from their learning experience.
Best-in-Class Faculty
Our faculty are highly qualified and experienced business professionals. They are chosen based on their senior management experience in their area of specialisation, appropriate postgraduate and teaching qualifications and a commitment to keep abreast of developments in their area of specialisation. Be inspired by practitioners with senior level business and industry experience and benefit from their extensive business knowledge and practical leadership and management skills.
Great Student Experience
Our current and former students consistently rank their experience studying with AIM Business School as exceptional. In fact, we rank above the national average in all but one category, with particular satisfaction for our teaching practices, support services, and overall experience. Don’t believe us? Check us out at ComparED for yourself.
Prompt, Personalised, and Ongoing Support
We’ll be there to help you throughout your study journey. Gain prompt, personalised and ongoing support from specialised Faculty and our Student Support Team. We know postgraduate study is a commitment and we’re committed to providing you with exceptional support throughout your qualification.
Flexible Intake Periods
At AIM Business School, you don’t have to wait for the next semester's intake. When we say flexible and accessible, we mean it. We understand that working professionals need both when enrolling in postgraduate study. This means, with bimonthly, you can start as soon as you’re ready. It’s convenience at its best.
Uncapped Scholarship Opportunities
We believe financial barriers shouldn't stand between you and your educational goals. That's why we place no limit on how many students can receive a scholarship. Every eligible student has the opportunity to access financial support, making quality postgraduate education more accessible for all driven professionals.
Enrolment
AIM Business School invites you to transform your career with our Graduate Certificate in Business. Whether you bring years of experience or are ready to build new expertise, we're here to help you succeed. Check your eligibility and apply now.
Explore More
Looking to broaden your expertise? AIM Business School offers additional Graduate Certificates in areas such as leadership, entrepreneurship, and project management. Explore now and discover more pathways to success.
Accreditation
The ABS Graduate Certificate in Business is accredited with TEQSA and meets the requirements of a Level 8 qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
This course is not CRICOS registered and as such enrolments from Student Visa holders cannot be accepted.
FAQ
What is a Graduate Certificate in Business?
A Graduate Certificate in Business is a Level 8 postgraduate qualification that develops foundational business management skills and knowledge. This qualification sits above a bachelor's degree in complexity and is an ideal stepping stone for professionals seeking to enhance their business acumen.
What are the admission requirements for a Graduate Certificate in Business?
You can qualify for the Graduate Certificate in Business program through multiple pathways, with options for both academic qualifications and professional experience.
The primary entry paths include:
- a bachelor's degree with two years of relevant management experience
- a diploma or advanced diploma with three years of management experience, or
- five years of relevant management experience with no formal qualification
Additionally, all applicants must meet English language requirements and have access to appropriate computer and internet technology.
How long does it take to complete the Graduate Certificate in Business at AIM Business School?
Our Graduate Certificate in Business can be completed at your own pace, with flexible study options to accommodate working professionals. The program consists of four core units that can be undertaken with bimonthly intake periods, allowing you to study at a speed that suits your schedule and commitments.
Most students complete the qualification within 8 months of part-time study, though the actual duration can be shorter or longer depending on your study pace, work commitments, and whether you receive any Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) credits for previous experience or study.
What subjects or courses are typically included in a Graduate Certificate in Business?
A Graduate Certificate in Business typically consists of four units that explore essential areas of business. These may include topics such as financial management, leadership, business strategy, and operational improvement. The specific courses offered can vary depending on the institution but generally aim to equip students with key skills in areas such as people management, decision-making, and entrepreneurship.
What career opportunities can a Graduate Certificate in Business provide?
Graduate Certificate in Business opens doors to various management and leadership roles across diverse business sectors. The qualification is particularly valuable for professionals seeking to move into people management positions, functional leadership roles, or business administration careers.
Can I transition from a Graduate Certificate in Business to a Master's degree?
Yes, the Graduate Certificate in Business is fully articulated into higher qualifications through the MBA+ pathway program. Upon completing the Graduate Certificate, you gain direct entry into the Graduate Diploma in Management, which provides a pathway to the Master of Business Administration (MBA). All units completed in the Graduate Certificate count as credit towards these higher qualifications, making it an efficient stepping stone towards an MBA.
Is the Graduate Certificate in Business at AIM Business School available online or part-time?
Yes, the Graduate Certificate in Business at AIM Business School is delivered entirely online through a flexible learning platform called myABS, making it ideal for part-time study. This virtual campus provides access to unit introduction videos, regular webinars, self-assessment tasks, and comprehensive learning materials that can be accessed anywhere, anytime.
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