The top 5 online MBA programs in Australia are from SCU Online, James Cook University, the University of Adelaide, UTS Online, and RMIT University. Each program is flexible and has great features for online learners.
They are all ranked among the top echelon of MBA online degrees by Lerna Courses, where you can obtain brochures with details about each program.
Trends in Online MBA Studies in Australia
The leading postgraduate program in Australia is the online MBA. While a Master of Business Administration (MBA) has always been the go-to option for aspiring managers, now most students are also choosing online study. During 2023, 38,370 Australian students were listed as studying online for a postgraduate business and commerce qualification (Source: Higher Education Stats).
Perhaps two factors best explain the shift towards earning your MBA online. One is the fact that we do so much online these days. Why go to the trouble of attending classes in person when, like everything else, you can do this using a computer, laptop or even your phone?
Another big factor is improvement in the way MBA online courses are delivered. At one time, most online programs were just an on-campus course for which materials were made available digitally. Now, the best MBA courses are purpose-built for online study, with features such as advanced digital learning platforms and 6-8 week teaching blocks for each subject.
Best Universities for an MBA Online
Australian universities offer world-class degrees that you can obtain without having to attend a campus. Furthermore, these online business schools cater to working professionals, meaning you can study part-time and continue working full-time without interruption. Study flexibly when it suits you.
Whatever field of study you are interested in, or if you just want to do a general business management program, you should be able to find what you are looking for. Here is our ranking of the top 5 universities for an online MBA in Australia.
1. SCU Online
Cheap but good is how you could describe the online MBA from Southern Cross University. The program ranks as very close to Australia’s cheapest according to Good Universities online MBA rankings, with total tuition fees of $37,500 for students who start in 2025.
The program appears cheap simply by virtue of being delivered efficiently. Students don’t appear to miss out an anything. Each of the 12 units is delivered within a 7-week teaching period. The program is accelerated, meaning you are able to study throughout the year. You also benefit from a modern digital learning platform and student support.
Students are able to do a general MBA course of specialise in one of four fields: Managing and Leading People, Accounting, Information and Knowledge Management, and Health Services Management.
2. UTS Online
The MBA from UTS Online is definitely one of the most flexible in the country in terms of specialisations. The program allows for majors in business analytics, digital marketing, health, organisational learning, and technology management. If none of these fields are exactly what you’re looking for, there is a “Flex” option to select elective units from any of the mentioned specialist study streams.
The 12-subject degree comprises 4 electives and 8 core subjects that prepare you for success in the modern business world. Students explore topics such as financial fundamentals, leading people and change, marketing in the technological age, accounting for decision makers, managerial economics, data-driven decision-making, governance and sustainability, and strategy and negotiation.
The degree is surprisingly cheap given the calibre of the university and program, priced at $54,684 for students commencing in 2025. FEE-HELP loans will cover these costs for Australians.
3. RMIT University
RMIT University offers a fresh curriculum and interesting potential choices of “minors” for anyone interested in being at the forefront of technological leadership. Students may specialise in design thinking, technology and innovation, leadership, or project management. Tuition fees are currently $4,800 per subject.
RMIT Online’s MBA is themed around developing contemporary leaders who will thrive in the dynamic landscape of Industry 4.0. This fast-paced program emphasises future-focused leadership, technology, digital trends, and authentic leadership. Program participants benefit from RMIT’s innovative insights and dynamic courses, potentially gaining a competitive edge over traditional MBA graduates.
4. AGSM
The AGSM MBAX from UNSW Sydney offers a flexible, online MBA program. Students can specialise in Change, Finance, Technology, Social Impact, or choose a Generalist stream. This modular structure lets you align the degree with your career interests.
Delivered by AGSM @ UNSW Business School, the program features interactive online learning. Industry-connected academics and a strong alumni network provide valuable support. The AGSM MBAX at UNSW costs $5,670 per course in 2025, with a total estimated fee of $68,040. The program’s design makes it possible to balance study with full-time work.
5. MBS
The Melbourne Business School Online MBA is designed for working professionals seeking a flexible, part-time program. The curriculum emphasises leadership, data analytics, marketing, and operations. Students complete 17.5 subjects delivered in 7-week study blocks, focusing on 1 or 2 subjects at a time.
With six intakes per year, students can start when it suits them. The program includes syndicate groups and networking events to foster peer connections and industry relationships. Tuition for 2025 is $5,150 per subject, with a total estimated cost of $61,800. The degree is accredited by AACSB and EQUIS.
Online MBA Australia Fees in 2025
Tuition fees for the best online MBA programs in Australia in terms of value are $37,500 in 2025. That’s assuming you do 12 subjects for a Master of Business Administration from Southern Cross University.
| Business School | Subject Fee | Fee x 12 Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| SCU Online | $3,125 | $37,500 |
| UTS Online | $4,557 | $54,684 |
| RMIT University | $4,800 | $57,600 |
| AGSM at UNSW | $5,670 | $68,040 |
| MBS | $5,150 | $61,800 |
The most expensive option among business schools in the top 5 list is the Australian Graduate School of Management, with courses costs of $68,040.
Australia’s Most Popular MBA Style: Accelerated Online
Something just about all the top-rated online MBA programs have in common is that they’re accelerated. More than that, these fast-track MBA degrees have a similar course structure that working professionals seem to prefer.
The learning experience works like this. Every couple of months, you start a new subject with a small virtual class. Your classmates can be contacted online to share experiences, guide each other, and to potentially work on an occasional group projects.
The whole subject is completed over a 6-7 week study period (also called a teaching period). You’ll be evaluated as you go using assessment tools such as assignments, projects and short quizzes. You’ll have regular contact opportunities with instructors. You’ll even have a Student Success Advisor to help with any non-academic questions and issues. As a bonus, there won’t be a final exam.
If you do a subject every study period, you can complete six subjects annually and a full MBA in two years. This really is a low-stress, efficient way to earn an MBA degree. That’s why you might consider it the best type of MBA for busy people who don’t want to attend a campus.
Entry Requirements: A Bachelor Degree and/or Work Experience
Australian online business schools make accessing their programs quite straightforward. An undergraduate degree in any discipline plus a couple of years of professional experience are the standard admission requirements.
Depending on the business school, you can also gain entry with minimal professional experience or without a degree. You can do this by enrolling in a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration, for which entry requirements may be more relaxed. A graduate certificate consists of four subjects from the MBA program.
Graduate certificate courses are often open to people without a bachelor degree provided you have extensive professional experience, including in supervisory and management roles. The courses may also accept recent business graduates without a significant track record in terms or work experience.
After successful completion of the graduate certificate, you can continue studying for a Graduate Diploma in Business Administration or MBA. Completed subjects count towards these higher education qualifications.