Business

Diploma of Business and Diploma of Leadership

CRICOS: 094094M and 094097G

Picture yourself mastering business fundamentals and leadership excellence to drive meaningful change in your world! The double diploma in Business and Leadership at Alphacrucis University College is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in both arenas, integrating practical experience with a Christian perspective. It is time to prepare to make a significant impact in your community and beyond.

Course Duration
1.5 years full time, up to 5 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face
Study Locations
Online, Sydney*, Brisbane*, Melbourne*, Perth*, Adelaide*, Hobart*
* Some subjects are available on campus, see the timetable to confirm location and mode.
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2), November (Summer)
Fees
$1,625 per subject
FEE-HELP
Subjects/Units
12

What is the Diploma of Business and Diploma of Leadership?

The double diploma in Business and Leadership combines the foundational principles of business management with advanced leadership training. This comprehensive program covers essential areas such as business communications, marketing, team dynamics, and organisational innovation. By integrating these disciplines, you will develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares you to lead with confidence and competence in various professional and community settings. This course is perfect for those looking to start or manage a business while also honing their leadership abilities, all within a Christian framework that emphasises ethical decision-making and servant leadership.

Who is this for?

Are you an aspiring business leaders looking to excel in entrepreneurial ventures or corporate settings?

Do you want to expand your expertise in both business and leadership to advance your career and take on greater responsibilities?

Are you interested in integrating ethical and faith-based principles into your professional and ministry practices?

Are you planning to juggle ministry with another vocation?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it is time to enquire about the Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Ministry double degree.

Outcomes

Oversee operations, drive growth, and implement strategic initiatives in various business environments.

Be bi-vocational, working in ministry and another field of your choosing.

Work as an Entrepreneur, Consultant, or take on Leadership in a Corporate setting.

Be equipped to take on leadership roles within your church or ministry.

I think anyone who's got Alphacrucis as a part of their journey is better off for it.

Mark Varughese, Senior Pastor Kingdomcity

Accreditation

Graduates of AC Business courses with an Accounting specialisation are recognised by the Certified Practicing Accountants of Australia (CPA) and Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand (CA).

*This course meets the theological qualification requirements to be an ordained minister in churches that are part of the Australian Christian Churches movement, which represents over 1,100 churches throughout Australia and neighbouring countries.

If your church is part of another denomination, please check with your church or denomination office if this course is also recognised for credentialled ministry.

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.

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.

Personal Leadership LEA004
Understanding personal leadership through biblical and theological principles equips students with skills in self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and self-discipline. This subject prepares you to articulate a vision aligned with Christian values, improve communication, and enhance personal and professional effectiveness, fostering resilience and adaptability.
Leadership Principles LEA005
Exploring leadership through contemporary theory and a Christian worldview can profoundly enhance your effectiveness across various settings, including ministry and business. This unit offers a deep understanding of different leadership theories and their applications, enhancing your ability to lead with ethics and adaptability. Students will develop skills in communication, team building, and critical analysis, preparing them for diverse leadership challenges.
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.
Professional Experience (choose 1 of the following subjects)
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.

Biblical Foundations (choose 1 of the following subjects)
Old Testament Foundations BIB009
The Old Testament is the first instance of God’s self-revelation to humanity. It points forward to Jesus and it provides glimpses of the Holy Spirit at work. The themes, theology, wisdom, history, and narrative form the basis for our understanding of God. This subject will equip you to uncover the significance and relevance of the Old Testament to being a disciple of Jesus.
New Testament Foundations BIB010
The New Testament is an exciting document that outlines the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus and the early writings of the church. This subject will introduce the purpose, content, and message of the New Testament books with particular focus on the historical and cultural implications of their setting, and how this broad diversity of literature presents an incredibly unified and coherent message.
Electives
3 Subjects
30 Credit Points
Choose 3 of the following subjects
Youth Ministry MIN006
Embark on a comprehensive exploration of the foundation of youth ministry, where biblical, historical, and theological insights intersect with contemporary culture.
Children’s Ministry MIN005
Explore the key components of children's ministry and how to effectively engage a younger audience with a gospel message.
Preaching MIN003
Ever wished to harness your favorite preacher's persuasive power to elevate biblically sound sermons and uplift your congregation? Explore the transformational potential of preaching in this unit, equipped with rhetorical tools to craft impactful messages that resonate deeply with postmodern audiences.
Introduction to Pastoral Ministry MIN001

In this foundational unit, students delve into diverse topics which are essential to pastoral ministry. They will explore contemporary pastoral models, integrating academic insights and application. From defining ministry, calling, and ordination to conflict resolution and effective caregiving. Students will explore how to outwork these concepts, by understanding the role of pastoral care in the church and ministry contexts.

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.

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.

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.
Specialisation (Optional)
3 Subjects
30 Credit Points
Marketing
30 credit points MKT at AQF Level 5, 6 or 7 (choose 3 of the following subjects)
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.

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.

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.

Management
30 credit points MAN/HRM at AQF Level 5, 6 or 7 (choose 3 of the following subjects)
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.

Fundamentals of Human Resource Management HRM201
A solid understanding of Human Resource Management (HRM) is essential for the success of any organisation. This course offers a comprehensive overview of strategic HRM, including work design, recruitment, performance management, and employee retention. Students will develop a solid understanding of HRM functions and their impact on organisational operations and planning.
Human Resource Planning and Development HRM202
Aligning workforce strategies with an organisation’s strategic goals is critical to reach objectives efficiently. Through this unit, students will learn to assess and forecast workforce needs and design HR initiatives that are responsive to organisational objectives and external changes. By understanding these key HR functions, students are prepared to enhance organisational effectiveness and adaptability in various sectors.
Management of Workplace Health & Safety HRM203
Maintaining a safe and productive work environment is essential within every organisation. This unit covers the legislative framework governing employment and delves into the practical aspects of hiring, termination, and employee benefits. Students will examine critical issues such as workplace safety, work/life balance from a biblical perspective, and the management of workplace conflict and diversity.
Volunteer Management HRM216
Managing volunteers well is important for the effectiveness of non-profit and community organisations. This subject offers a comprehensive overview of the sociological and historical roles of volunteers, both in Australia and globally. Students will explore volunteer motivation, management techniques, and the strategic utilisation of volunteer efforts to maximise the benefits of volunteer involvement while aligning it with organisational goals.

Work-Integrated Learning

Work-Integrated Learning may be undertaken through various Professional Practice and Professional Experience subjects at AC. These subjects seek to create a direct linkage between the learning, skills and values engaged in lectures, and the reflection which occurs when these are applied in real-life settings. These work-based training subjects comprise of instruction, academic assessment and a placement in a workplace for each subject.

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 business and leadership, 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 business and leadership.

    Skills

    • Identify, analyse and synthesise theoretical knowledge in the discipline areas of business and leadership.
    • Examine a complex problem or presenting issues using appropriate business and leadership methodologies and theories.
    • Communicate technical and creative skills to express leadership ideas and perspectives.
    • Transfer knowledge and specialised leadership skills to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts.
    • Communicate effectively to transfer knowledge and specialised chaplaincy skills to peers, clients, and general audiences in diverse contexts.
    • Communicate effectively and creatively ideas and perspectives on key business issues, recent scholarship and practices in business to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts.
    • Apply theoretical and technical knowledge and skills acquired within the specialist area of leadership in a range of professional contexts to develop appropriate solutions to business and management issues.
    • Work independently, responsibly and with the level expected in a broad range of professional, business, and leadership 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.

    Pathways

    Diploma of Business and Diploma of Leadership

    8 Core + 4 Electives
    Find out more

    Bachelor of Ministry

    12 Core + 7 Restricted Electives + 5 Electives
    Find out more

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    International Students – Language Requirements

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

    Higher Education Study

    Completion of an AQF Level 5 Higher Education Diploma (or higher) by an authorised institution.

    Vocational Education and Training (VET)

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

    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).

    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