Business

Diploma of Business and Diploma of Entrepreneurship

CRICOS: 094094M and 094094M

Are you ready to combine business expertise with an entrepreneurial mindset to make a positive impact in this world? The Diploma of Business and Diploma of Entrepreneurship at Alphacrucis University College is designed to equip Christian leaders with the mindset needed to start businesses and the skills needed to keep them going and growing. Is it time to step into your unique calling in the marketplace? Complete this double diploma in 1.5 years (full-time), instead of 2 years.

What is the Diploma of Business and Diploma of Entrepreneurship?

The Diploma of Business and Diploma of Entrepreneurship is a comprehensive double diploma program that integrates core business concepts with hands-on entrepreneurial training. Over 1.5 years, you will gain skills in ideation, customer research, business communications, and marketing. Each participant will work on their startup idea or collaborate with an existing startup, developing an entrepreneurial mindset and critical skills such as self-awareness and tenacity. Run by Christian entrepreneurs, this course provides access to a network of experienced entrepreneurs, a startup incubator and accelerator, and the possibility of exclusive venture capital funding. This programme also offers flexible academic pathways, allowing you to start with a shorter course before committing to a bachelor’s degree at AC.

Who is this for?

Aspiring Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders: Are you looking to gain a comprehensive education in both business and entrepreneurship to launch or grow your ventures?

Innovative Thinkers: Do you have a passion for solving problems and want to learn how to commercialise your ideas effectively?

Christian Leaders: Are you seeking to integrate your faith with your professional life, making a positive impact in the marketplace?

Think this might be you? Join us and transform your potential into impactful success.

Outcomes

Startup Founder: Launch and manage your own startup with confidence.

Innovation Consultant: Provide expert advice on ideation and business commercialisation to other businesses.

Product Manager: Oversee the development and commercialisation of new products within an organisation.

Business Development Specialist: Drive growth and strategic initiatives in mission-based or not-for-profit organisations.

Creative and Marketing Professional: Utilise your storytelling and design thinking skills to enhance marketing strategies for startups and established businesses.

The Alphacrucis business course has reframed my thinking around what it takes to start a business, develop ideas, to scale and grow, and to innovate. This is all relevant to me because I work as a freelance business owner. Recently I’ve seen my business grow both financially and in influence, and where I want to take it in the future. AC helped me to apply my faith to freelancing and encouraged me the whole way.

Ethan Entz, Bachelor of Business Student

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Core
9 Subjects
90 Credit Points
Faith and Purpose ACA001
Discover the foundations of faith and how it relates to one's worldview and purpose. Students will explore the Christian story from Scripture and express ideas of their own faith, examine how faith shapes views on the meaning and purpose of life, the value of humanity and ideas of human flourishing. Expand your perspective in this core subject and understand the significance of faith in all areas of life.
Business Communication COM001

Learn how to communicate within today's fast paced society. Students will explore a range of strategies to overcome obstacles withhin the business landscape and to have ethical business communication practices.

Professional Practice EXP001

Ready to bridge theory with real-world experience? Professional Practice is tailored precisely for this purpose. Dive into the academic exploration of professional practice, while gaining hands-on experience through a placement. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, students complete a 100-hour placement (or opt for two 50-hour placements over two semesters) in various formats, enriching their learning journey.

Professional Practice in Business EXP007

Catch a glmipse of the dynamic and multifaceted world of businesses, while gaining practical experience through a hands-on placement. Guided by experienced mentors (excluding family or close friends), students complete a 100-hour placement over a semester, enhancing their learning journey.

Introduction to Management MAN001

Through this introductory unit, students are given a dynamic entry into the world of business leadership, where every day presents new challenges and opportunities. Explore a blend of contemporary management theories with real-world applications, including the integration of sustainable development practices. Students will also consider the role of ethics and social responsibility from a Christian perspective, and how these principles are applied in organisational settings.

Foundations of Marketing MKT001

Understanding the foundations of marketing is crucial for anyone looking to effectively promote ideas, products, or services. This course offers insight into how organisations identify and understand their markets and tailor creative marketing campaigns successfully. Students will explore the marketing mix's components, develop strategies from legal, ethical, and Christian perspectives, and learn to apply these concepts in various contexts.

Entrepreneurship Foundations ENT001
Step into the mind of the entrepreneur. This subject introduces students to the key concepts and practices of entrepreneurship. It explores the importance of early adopters, maintaining a personal and strategic focus, and engaging with leaders and teams throughout entrepreneurial pursuits.
Idea to Opportunity ENT002
Explore the difference between ideas and opportunities. This subject teaches students how to have an entrepreneurial mind, and apply solutions to identified opportunities. Students will be introduced to the Redemptive Framework and will engage with current social, environmental and technological disruptions.
Customer Research ENT003
Discover the art of problem solving and solution based interview techniques to engage with your customers. Students will learn to adeptly apply customer-centric approaches to drive business success.
Electives
3 Subjects
30 Credit Points
Choose 3 of the following subjects
Business Ethics BUS225

This subject explores the foundational values of integrity, stewardship, and justice, providing students with practical tools to navigate ethical challenges in business. While exploring the role of ethics in organisational dynamics and corporate governance, students will delve into ethical philosophies and examine their direct and indirect impacts on the economy, business practices, and individual responses. The course builds an understanding of global business ethics and their application in real-world contexts through a study of diverse cultural perspectives.

Students will learn how ethical decision-making rooted in Christian principles can transform the workplace and inspire a positive impact in the broader community. Through case studies, discussions, and real-world applications, students will develop their own personal ethos with a focus on integrating ethical principles into business practices informed by a Christian worldview and they will learn how to align their professional actions with a faith-driven purpose, ensuring responsible leadership and sustainable success.

Ethics in Data Analysis BUS251

This subject will commence in 2025

Excel and Data Analytics BUS220

This subject will commence in 2025

Business Intelligence and Data Visualisation BUS210

This subject will commence in 2025

Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence BUS205
Quantitative Skills BUS105
Introduction to Business Analytics BUS104
Consumer Behaviour MKT202

Understanding consumer behaviour is pivotal for crafting effective marketing strategies. This subject delves into the psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence buying decisions, equipping students with the ability to analyse and make predictions on consumer actions. Through exploring key theories and frameworks, students will learn to apply this knowledge to real-world marketing decisions.

Introduction to Management MAN001

Through this introductory unit, students are given a dynamic entry into the world of business leadership, where every day presents new challenges and opportunities. Explore a blend of contemporary management theories with real-world applications, including the integration of sustainable development practices. Students will also consider the role of ethics and social responsibility from a Christian perspective, and how these principles are applied in organisational settings.

Project Management MAN003

Driving projects towards success is key in any professional setting. This unit equips students with the skills to plan, execute, and oversee projects effectively. You will learn about various project stages, from setting goals and managing budgets to evaluating team performance, helping you to deliver successful outcomes and enhance your career prospects.

Introduction to Management MAN101

This foundational subject equips students with the essential management skills needed to design roles, recruit effectively, train teams, and develop fair compensation structures. By integrating these skills, students will be prepared to enhance job satisfaction and productivity within organisations, considering ethical and responsible management practices from a Christian perspective.

Organisational Behaviour MAN201

Mastering organisational behaviour is essential for thriving in the complex environment of the modern workplace. This unit focuses on the behaviour of individuals and groups within organisations, tracing from historical roots to modern-day practices in management, leading effectively, and fostering collaborative teams. Combining academic theories with real-world applications, it equips students with the tools to understand and influence organisational dynamics.

Foundations of Marketing MKT001

Understanding the foundations of marketing is crucial for anyone looking to effectively promote ideas, products, or services. This course offers insight into how organisations identify and understand their markets and tailor creative marketing campaigns successfully. Students will explore the marketing mix's components, develop strategies from legal, ethical, and Christian perspectives, and learn to apply these concepts in various contexts.

Foundations of Marketing MKT101

Centred on consumer value, this unit explores marketing's evolution and its current dynamics. Students will learn to analyse consumer needs, craft strategic marketing plans, and utilise the marketing mix effectively. Ethical considerations are considered throughout these aspects, preparing students to create impactful, responsible marketing strategies in a competitive landscape.

Sales Management MKT201

Managing sales effectively is essential for anyone looking to thrive in business by effectively making and retaining customers. This unit equips students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in sales, including working with CRM systems and developing robust communication and negotiation techniques. Students will learn to craft comprehensive sales strategies, perform detailed market analyses, and create value for customers.

Strategic Marketing for Non-Profit Organisations MKT216

Non-Profit Organisations have unique challenges to navigate in creating social and spiritual value. This unit explores multi-stakeholder marketing, teaching how to build movements, transform supporters into advocates, engage sponsors, and secure grants. By developing a strategic marketing plan tailored to NFPs, students will learn to balance ethical values with effective marketing strategies.

Marketing Communication MKT251

Exploring how organisations connect with their audiences, this subject delves into the complexities of marketing communication strategies, providing insights into mass communication, media planning, and the digital revolution, including social media. Students will learn to critically analyse various communication theories, design impactful messages, and create an effective media mix tailored to specific target audiences.

Customer Research ENT003
Discover the art of problem solving and solution based interview techniques to engage with your customers. Students will learn to adeptly apply customer-centric approaches to drive business success.
Storytelling for Entrepreneurs ENT005
Unlock the power of storytelling as a tool for entrepreneurial success. This course equips students with the skills to develop innovative and creative storytelling abilities, enabling them to effectively communicate their brand narrative.
Design Thinking ENT004
Master the art of design thinking and develop creative solutions to entrepreneurial challenges. In this subject, students will recognise the importance of empathy and the power of observation. Work individually and collaboratively in teams to apply design thinking and engage the design-thinking mindset.
Idea to Opportunity ENT002
Explore the difference between ideas and opportunities. This subject teaches students how to have an entrepreneurial mind, and apply solutions to identified opportunities. Students will be introduced to the Redemptive Framework and will engage with current social, environmental and technological disruptions.
Entrepreneurship Foundations ENT001
Step into the mind of the entrepreneur. This subject introduces students to the key concepts and practices of entrepreneurship. It explores the importance of early adopters, maintaining a personal and strategic focus, and engaging with leaders and teams throughout entrepreneurial pursuits.
Accounting for Decision Making ACC101

This introductory subject provides an essential foundation in accounting, emphasising its critical role in business decision-making. Key accounting principles and different business structures are explained, enabling students to analyse financial statements, create a budget, and effectively evaluate business decisions. With a blend of theory and practical application, students will learn to use accounting information to make sound business decisions, while also considering ethics and sustainability.

Introduction to Accounting & Bookkeeping ACC001
This subject demystifys accounting and finance concepts for those with non-accounting backgrounds. Gain a clear, step-by-step understanding of essential accounting practices, generate and analyse basic accounting data and reports, understand financial ratios and appreciate their impact on business decisions. This foundation is invaluable for understanding and managing finances effectively, relevant for all sectors.
Accounting and Financial Management ACC201

Build on accounting fundamentals and progress onto mastering accounting processes. Learn about key concepts and theories of financial reporting, transaction recording and preparation of financial reports. Students will become proficient in basic double entry accounting, and learn practical skills in using accounting software packages. The skills to critically evaluate financial reports are developed, while management skills related to financial management and performance are both imparted and applied.

Financial Reporting ACC202

Understanding Australia's financial reporting landscape is crucial for success in diverse organizational contexts. Gain the knowledge and skills to interpret complex financial statements, apply accounting standards effectively, and remain informed about current developments, preparing you for real-world challenges in financial reporting.

Management Accounting ACC210

Proficiency in management accounting is essential for informed organisational decision-making. Learn budgeting, costing, and performance evaluation techniques. Explore contemporary developments and gain skills in budget preparation and variance analysis. Master the tools for strategic financial planning and control, essential for navigating dynamic business environments.

Accounting Information Systems ACC212

Through exploring the systems and processes that drive financial data management within businesses, you will learn to use advanced tools like XBRL for reporting, assess internal controls, and implement effective corporate governance and audit planning, ensuring robustness and integrity in financial systems. Gaining these skills is beneficial for future roles in business and finance.

Quantitative Skills BUS001

Navigating numbers is a crucial skill in business and translates directly into effective management and decision-making. This subject lays the groundwork for success with financial mathematics, tailoring its content to benefit individuals across all skill levels. Ideal as a precursor to more advanced studies in statistics, accounting, and finance, it offers a deep dive into the quantitative skills needed to solve real-world business problems.

Australian Legal Environment and Ethics BUS002

Understanding the intersection of law, ethics and business is vital for anyone leading within today's complex environment. This unit offers a foundational understanding of business law, emphasising the alignment of legal practices with ethical and moral frameworks. Students will gain insight into the principles of Australian law, consumer rights, and governance, equipping them with a foundation of legal and ethical principles.

Introduction to Business Legal Environments and Ethics BUS003

Understanding the legal and ethical dimensions of business is essential for those aiming to lead with integrity in today's world. While covering important topics from the Principles of Australian Law to ethical and theological perspectives, this unit equips students to navigate multiple aspects of the legal environment thoughtfully and morally.

Business Law BUS101

Delve into the essentials of business law by exploring the legal frameworks surrounding corporations, not-for-profits, and churches. Gain insights into Australia's legal system, including criminal, contract, and workplace law, and understand the regulatory environment's impact on business operations, laying a solid legal foundation for future endeavours.

Economics BUS102

Understanding contemporary economics is essential for navigating today's complex financial landscape. This subject equips students with theoretical tools and practical applications, examining economics' historical, ethical, and theological dimensions. Topics include market dynamics, public policy, and the economics of religion, preparing students for informed analysis and decision-making.

Business Information Systems BUS120

This unit highlights technology's role in enhancing business decision-making, positioning it as a supportive tool rather than the main objective. Students will discover how accounting and business information systems can drive organisational efficiency and governance. The curriculum emphasises ethical data practices, risk management, and strategic information utilisation, preparing learners to tackle modern challenges in information management to maintain a competitive edge.

Financial Decision Making BUS202

In today's fast-paced financial landscape, informed decision-making is key to personal and organisational success. Financial Decision Making equips students with vital skills, focusing on strategic and everyday financial choices. With practical case studies from Australia and beyond, the unit covers the time value of money, risk evaluation, and cash flow analysis. Students will learn how to apply financial planning strategies to navigate complex challenges effectively.

Financial Integrity System BUS203

Through this subject, students are equipped with critical insights into managing financial integrity risks, particularly within not-for-profits and churches. Through a blend of theoretical understanding and practical application, students will design a financial integrity system, crucial for protecting the assets and reputations of organisations within their communities.

Business Analytics BUS204

Recognising the need for informed decisions in today's data-driven marketplace, this course introduces students to essential mathematical and statistical methods needed in business, with a focus on ethical data usage and effective decision-making. You will learn to critically analyse, summarise, and present data, understanding its significant role in not only for-profit environments but also in NGOs and NFP organisations.

Corporations Law BUS250

Grasping Australian corporate law is crucial for effective company management and operation. This subject offers an examination of business structures, the impact of incorporation, and the roles of directors and officers within both for-profit and not-for-profit sectors. Students will gaining critical insight into corporate governance, the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the responsibilities of company directors, and the operations of ASIC.

Business Finance BUS260

Gaining proficiency in practical financial decision-making is crucial for both personal and business success. Through this subject, students will uncover how the global financial system functions, assess risks in capital markets, and learn strategies for financing significant projects and valuing businesses. The course also addresses raising capital and managing debt with a focus on ethical considerations.

More Information

For more information and details of previous course structures see Student Handbook.
*You can also use the Subject & Unit Search to explore the subjects (including electives) available to enrol in for this course and can filter by subject area and level.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.

What people say

  • Learning Outcomes

    Knowledge

    • General understanding of key issues, recent scholarship and practices within the discipline areas of entrepreneurship and business, consistent with a Christian worldview.
    • Depth of understanding of practical fieldwork.
    • Technical and theoretical understanding of basic research principles and methods, and knowledge of research approaches used in the discipline areas of entrepreneurship and business.

    Skills

    • Identify, analyse and synthesise theoretical knowledge in the discipline areas of entrepreneurship and business.
    • Examine a complex problem or presenting issues using appropriate entrepreneurship and business methodologies and theories.
    • Communicate technical and creative skills to express leadership ideas and perspectives.
    • Communicate technical and creative skills to express business ideas and perspectives.
    • Communicate effectively and creatively ideas and perspectives on key issues, recent scholarship and practices in business and entrepreneurship to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts.
    • Apply theoretical and technical knowledge and skills acquired within the specialist area of business in a range of professional contexts to develop appropriate solutions to entrepreneurship issues.
    • Work independently, responsibly and with the level expected in a broad range of professional, ministry, and entrepreneurship contexts.
    • Collaborate in team projects to make a positive contribution toward social issues.
    • Undertake self-reflection and evaluation of performance for the purpose of vocational development.

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    Recent Secondary Education (with the past 2 years)

    Completion of NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) (or the completion of an International Baccalaureate or the interstate or overseas equivalent qualification).

    Vocational Education and Training (VET)

    Completion of a Certificate III or higher by an authorised institution or registered training organisation.

    Pre-admission Interview

    The Program Director will conduct a pre-admission interview (either face-to-face or phone or online) with all applicants to assess academic suitability and preparedness of the applicant for this level study.

    International Students – Language Requirements

    IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 5.5 (with no score below 5.0 in any of the four skills areas).

    How to Apply

    • Get Started

      Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.

    • Apply

      It’s easy! Apply online below or contact us and we can help on 1300 228 355.

    • Offer

      We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.

    Key Dates
    Semester 1
    Term 1
    February / March
    Term 2
    April
    Semester 2
    Term 3
    July / August
    Term 4
    November