Business

Undergraduate Certificate in Business Studies

CRICOS: 105895E

Are you ready to kickstart your career in business with a solid foundation? The Undergraduate Certificate in Business Studies at Alphacrucis University College is designed to provide you with essential business training and enhanced skills, offering a perfect introduction to the world of business without the commitment of a full bachelor’s degree.

Course Duration
6 Months, up to 2 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live
Study Locations
Online, Sydney
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2), November (Summer)
Fees
$2,300 per subject
FEE-HELP
Subjects/Units
4

What is the Undergraduate Certificate in Business Studies?

The Undergraduate Certificate in Business Studies is a short, focused programme that equips you with foundational knowledge and skills in business. This course allows you to explore various areas, including Business, Accounting, Leadership, and Marketing, through a selection of elective subjects. It’s an ideal starting point for those looking to gain formal business education and enhance their career prospects. By completing this certificate, you’ll be prepared to pursue further studies or enter the business world with confidence.

Who is this for?

Are you looking to gain a quick and solid foundation in business studies to enhance your career opportunities?

Do you want to upskill and formalise your business knowledge without committing to a full degree program?

Do you seek to integrate ethical and faith-based principles into your business practices and studies?

Are you looking for some confidence as you start a new career?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, this short, super-powered course could be perfect for you.

Outcomes

Business Support Roles: Provide essential support and administrative functions within business environments.

Sales and Marketing Roles: Utilise your foundational knowledge to assist in sales and marketing operations.

Junior Accounting Positions: Apply basic accounting principles in entry-level accounting roles.

Leadership Support Roles: Assist in leadership and management tasks within diverse organisational settings.

The reason I picked Alphacrucis is because of the quality of education it has, the Christian values it provides the students as well as the fact that it has been there for 70 years. The reason I have had such good employment opportunities is that Alphacrucis has taught me skills I never thought that I would have and the Christian values that it gives have been integral in making the right decisions in my workplace.

Devin Samayamanthri, Bachelor of Business Student

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).

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Electives
4 Subjects
40 Credit Points
Choose 4 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.

Marketing Analytics BUS323
Financial Analytics BUS322
Predictive Analytics BUS321

This subject will commence in 2025

Data Mining and Machine Learning BUS320

This subject will commence in 2025

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
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.

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.

Strategic Management MAN311
In a world where adaptability is key, strategic management becomes crucial for leaders to steer organisations toward success. This unit hones strategic thinking and planning skills, teaching students to navigate the complexities of competitive landscapes. With a focus on analysing external forces, developing strategic frameworks, and integrating contemporary approaches, learners will be equipped to guide teams effectively to reach their goals.
International Management MAN351
Understanding the intricacies of international management is pivotal for navigating the complexities of today’s global business environment. This subject offers a deep dive into the interpersonal and operational challenges faced by managers in diverse cultural contexts. Students will evaluate national culture assessment tools, explore the significance of cultural understanding in management, and apply key management concepts on a worldwide scale.
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.

Market Research MKT301

Conducting effective market research is essential for understanding customer needs and driving informed decision-making within organisations. Through this unit, students will be equipped with the skills to design, conduct, and analyse both qualitative and quantitative research, transforming data into actionable insights. Students will explore the strategic role of market research, its applications, and ethical considerations across various sectors, including corporate and church environments.

International Marketing MKT351

There are several challenges inherent in international marketing including cultural sensitivity and strategic planning in overseas operations. This unit provides essential tools to analyse cultural differences and develop effective cross-cultural marketing strategies. Students will evaluate international marketing theories, design comprehensive marketing plans, and learn to navigate complex issues, including ethical considerations and logistical challenges.

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.

Advanced Leadership and Decision Making LEA301
Understanding group dynamics is key in today's organisations, where teamwork can make or break success. This unit equips students with strategies to promote ethical and effective behaviours, examining the impact of leadership, structure, and values. Students will navigate complexities like conflict and cultural diversity, applying their knowledge to enhance organisational outcomes and drive positive change in any organisational setting.
Professional Experience 4 EXP312

This final Professional Experience subject involves the pre-service teacher taking full responsibility for a classroom and develop more fully a range of skills, knowledge and attitudes more closely related to those of beginning teaching. The pre-service teacher will have full responsibility for observing, planning, implementing, student assessment and reporting, and evaluating units of work, including embedding individualised programs for specific school students to support inclusion and diversity.

Professional Experience 2 – Minor 2 EXP313
The unit focuses on meaningful and authentic learning tasks and contexts, giving specific attention to the design, development, implementation, student assessment and evaluation of units of work. The unit focuses on the process-driven and critically reflective nature of curriculum work, applying this to the specific needs of the secondary school context. Students will learn integrative processes and practices and cross-curricular priorities and reflect upon a range of disciplinary approaches to curriculum.
Professional Experience 3 – Major EXP314

This final Professional Experience subject involves the student taking full responsibility for a classroom to develop a range of skills. Student will have full responsibility for observing, planning, implementing, student assessment and reporting, and evaluating units of work, including embedding individualised programs for specific school students to support inclusion and diversity. By considering the gaps and silences evident in discourses about learners and learning and critically engage with ethical practices for inclusivity.The student will submit their Teacher Performance Assessment (TPA) at the conclusion of this subject.

Professional Experience EXP316
Students will embark on a 10-day pofessional experience placement within the vibrant landscape of early childhood or primary education. Aligned with previous insights based on classroom engagement and management, students will immerse themselves in the realm of early childhood education, wokring with children aged between 3-5 years or alternatively primary school learners.
Professional Experience EXP321
In this unit, students consolidate and integrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes developed in preivous placements. Students will develop their personal confidence in the classroom and take greater responsibility for observing, planning, teaching and assessing and reporting. It will focus on the process-driven and critically reflective nature of curriculum work, applying this to the specific needs of the primary context and learners (K-6).
Professional Experience EXP322

This is the final primary Professional Experience placement, whereby students take full responsibility for a classroom in building on their skills, knowledge and attitudes and working more closely related to those of beginning teaching.Students will undergo the planning, implementation, assesment of students and reporting, including embedding individualised programs for specific school students to support inclusion and diversity. Students will need to consider gaps and silences evident in discourses about learners and learning and critically engage with ethical practices for inclusivity.

Leadership Principles LEA201
Leadership isn't just about authority; it's about values, communication, and problem-solving. This subject explores diverse leadership theories, cultivating self-awareness and critical evaluation. Students learn to navigate ethical dilemmas, develop team dynamics, and influence organizational culture, preparing for leadership roles across various sectors.
Leadership Principles (Arrow) LEA202
Mastering the intricacies of leadership is essential for anyone looking to enhance their influence within an organisation. This subject equips students with the tools to identify and refine their personal leadership philosophy, develop keen self-awareness, and foster essential communication and problem-solving skills through a critical examination of various leadership theories and ethical considerations.
Developing Women Leaders LEA220
Understanding the role of women in leadership positions is crucial for progressive organisational and societal development. This subject examines the historical and current challenges women face in leadership, with a focus on the church and community contexts. Students will explore legislative frameworks related to gender equity, theological rationales for gender equality, and leadership styles pioneered by women.
Strategic Thinking and Planning LEA302
Having a strategic approach through the planning process is essential for anyone aspiring to make a real impact in their organisation. This course draws on both biblical insights and modern management principles to equip students with the tools to assess and enhance their strategic visions and goals by understanding where their organisation stands, where it wants to be, and how to get there effectively.
Strategic Challenges, Innovation and Change LEA303
Recognising the necessity for continuous adaptation is vital in today's fast-paced world. This unit tackles the strategic challenges of innovation and change within organisations. It empowers students to manage and lead change effectively by applying innovative and entrepreneurial thinking not only in business contexts but also in expanding God's Kingdom.
Advanced Leadership and Decision Making (Arrow) LEA304
Constructed for those aiming to enhance their impact, this advanced unit provides a deep dive into the dynamics of leadership and decision-making processes that drive organisational effectiveness. Students will engage with current theories and evaluate communication strategies across various contexts, including corporate and non-profit environments.
Creativity and Entrepreneurship LEA311
Harnessing creativity and entrepreneurship can be transformative, offering fresh solutions to today’s challenges. This unit empowers students with the theories and practical skills to launch ventures that drive systemic and social change. Focusing on sustainability and ethical considerations, it guides future leaders in developing business models, particularly for non-profit and Christian organisations.
Professional Experience 3 EXP311
Students will consolidate and integrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes building on their foundation of knowledge. Students will explore strategies for increasing autonomy in the classroom and take greater responsibility for observing, planning, teaching and assessing and reporting in thier future professions.
Working with Older People EXP305
Develop the skills and knowledge that reflects an understanding of working with older people.Students will work on a case study and develop critical skills to analyse and support the eldery in their chosen issue, therapy or other intervention.
Professional Experience EXP110
Gain the skllls to work with children aged between birth and 35 months. Students will apply theoretical skills to observe babies, plan and evaluate play based learning and reflect on teaching capabilities.
Professional Experience EXP112
Gain the skllls to work with children aged between birth and 35 months. Students will apply theoretical skills to observe babies, plan and evaluate play based learning and reflect on teaching capabilities.
Professional Practice EXP201
Embark on a dynamic 100-hour placement journey throughout the semester, offering a diverse array of formats tailored to your interests. Whether you're passionate about pastoral ministry, envisioning a leadership role at organisations like World Vision, or eager to engage in cross-cultural ministry abroad, there's an opportunity suited just for you!
Professional Practice in Business EXP202

Itching to connect the realm of the classroom with some real-life experience? This unit is designed with just this aim in mind. Students will have the chance to engage academically with issues pertaining to their business specialisation plus experience a hands-on 100-hour placement with a variety of formats to choose from.

Culturally Diverse Communication EXP205
This is a vital subject that equips students to navigate and interpret the complexities of global interactions. This unit sharpens analytical skills through self-directed research and practical application of communication principles across diverse cultures. Students will engage in work-integrated learning, dedicating over 40 hours to real-world experiences in relevant workplaces—ideal for those seeking to enhance their proficiency in creating meaningful connections in multicultural environments.
Professional Experience 1 – Minor 1 EXP210
This unit introduces students to a wider range of opportunities to practise their developing skills and techniques in controlled real-life settings under the support of full-time school mentors. Students will be given opportunity to develop their planning, relational and evaluation skills within the setting of professional teams of communities of practice. During this professional experience they will develop effective behaviour management techniques for their teaching style and the learning context, while observing the performance of professional teachers in context, and reflect upon how their personal worldview impacts every aspect of their life and work in education.
Professional Experience 1 EXP211
Nothing on website
Professional Experience EXP213
Embark on your professional development, during a 20-day placement, students will delve into the dynamic world of children aged between three and five years or primary-aged learners. Drawing upon theoretical foundations and the guidance of the Early Years Learning Framework, students will craft tailored learning experiences.
Professional Experience EXP214
This experience aims to equip students with the leadership skills necessary to excel in early childhood education and care settings. During this 10-day professional placement, students, will immerse themselves in an early childhood setting, focusing on children aged between birth and 35 months.Students will have an oppurtunity to cultivate nurturing bonds with infants, foster professional rapport with other educators, and engage in attentive observation, planning, and evaluation of play-based learning experiences.
Professional Experience EXP215
Students gain classroom experience during a 10-day placement. This is done in conjunction with EDU322, 'The Self Reflective Educator', so that students have the opportunity of directly aligning course work and practice. Students are encouraged to critically reflect on their own philosophy and practice of teaching and consider what has shaped their understandings and how their own spiritual journey and belief system might equip them as educators.
Professional Experience EXP220
This 20-day block Professional Experience (PEX) placement is in the early childhood context with children aged 3-5 years. In this PEX, Teacher Education Students (TES) can apply their theoretical studies, and the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and reflect on their developing teaching skills. This aims to provide the TES with the skills to become a pedagogical leader in an early childhood education and care setting.
Advanced Professional Practice EXP301
Advanced Professional Practice builds on Professional Practice. It provides a chance for students to continue the challenging but rewarding combination of academic reflection upon contemporary ministerial issues and hands-on experience.
Advanced Professional Practice in Business EXP302

Advanced Professional Practice in Business builds on Professional Practice in Business. It provides a chance for students to continue the challenging but rewarding combination of academic reflection upon contemporary business issues and hands-on experience. Students will also do 100 hours placement of the course of the semester.

Professional Experience 2 EXP212
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Audit and Assurance ACC320

As financial transparency becomes increasingly crucial, this unit shines a light on the critical role of auditing in ensuring the reliability of financial statements. Students will delve into the auditing process and its essential legal and ethical foundations, gaining insights into risk assessment, audit strategy design, and report formulation.

Accounting Theory and Current Issues ACC311

Gaining a deep understanding of accounting theories enhances the ability to navigate complex financial reporting issues. This subject equips students with the skills to critically evaluate and apply various accounting theories within the framework set by the Australian Accounting Standards Board. Students will explore a range of contemporary issues, including fair value accounting and international harmonisation, providing a comprehensive perspective on current and emerging trends in accounting practice.

Advanced Management Accounting ACC310

No curriculum description, objectives, outcomes or content available

Accountability, Social Responsibility and Sustainability ACC305

No curriculum description, objectives, outcomes or content available

Financial Statement Analysis ACC302

Understanding financial statements is crucial for making informed business decisions. In this subject, students learn to analyse and interpret financial data, assess business strategies, and critically evaluate financial disclosures. They develop skills to effectively research and use financial information for investment and credit recommendations. The unit also covers advanced valuation techniques and economic theories to prepare students for real-world financial challenges.

Accounting for Groups ACC301

In the intricate landscape of corporate group accounting, mastering the accounting methods for managing investments in entities is essential. This unit equips students with the skills to navigate the classifications of investments as subsidiaries, associates, or joint ventures and the complexities of financial reporting as per Australian Accounting Standards. It also covers the preparation of consolidated financial statements, equity accounting, and other advanced topics.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Not-for-Profit Governance, Law and Taxation BUS303

For not-for-profits and churches, understanding governance, law, and taxation is critical for effective management. This unit equips students with a sound understanding of the specific regulatory and taxation frameworks applicable to NFPs and religious organisations in Australia. Students will learn to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios, critically engaging with contemporary policy debates surrounding these sectors.

Taxation Law BUS350

Navigating the complexities of taxation law is important for informed personal and business decision-making. This subject prepares students to critically analyse, resolve issues, and perform taxation calculations. Through research and practical application of tax law, students will develop dynamic skills to adapt to legal changes, enhancing their ability to manage future taxation challenges effectively.

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

    • Knowledge of key issues and practices within the discipline area.
    • Knowledge of the general research principles and methods used in the discipline area.

    Skills

    • Design and execute a research project which examines a problem or issue using appropriate methodologies and theories from the discipline area.
    • Identify and critically evaluate new developments of research and scholarship in the discipline area.
    • Communicate effectively ideas and proposed solutions to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts.

    Ability

    • Articulate new questions or issues and apply the knowledge and skills developed within the discipline area of to develop appropriate solutions.
    • Work independently, responsibly and with the level of professionalism expected in the discipline area.
    • Design and implement a research project in the discipline area to advance personal and professional 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.

    Higher Education Study

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

    Work and Life Experience – Applicants over 21 who do not meet academic requirements

    If you are over 21: apply for admission and complete the provisional entry qualifying period to become a full candidate of the course.

    This is an alternate pathway for applicants who do not meet other academic requirements.

    International Students – Language Requirements

    IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 6.0 (with no score below 5.5 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