MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Why study with SCU 3

The advantage of an MBA 4

Why choose SCU Online to study your MBA

5

Studying online at SCU 7

The structure of our MBA 11

Your Student Success Advisor 16

How to fit study into your life 18

Admissions 21

CONTENTS

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A trendsetter in online education

Southern Cross University is a pioneer of online education in Australia.

You’re in good company; we have more than 20 years of accredited experience in the field. At any one time, we have more than 5,000 people studying online.

When you study online, you have no campus-based obligations. Course design is in consultation with industry experts and made for online learning.

Online study means learning on your own terms, with family and work commitments no longer barriers to education and career progression.

Studying online means that you’ll connect with, and be supported by, like-minded individuals with similar academic and professional goals.

One of the world’s best universities under 50 years old 1

1 Southern Cross University was ranked in the top 150 universities in the world under 50 years old in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings, 2017

WHY STUDY WITH SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY

Our history and passionAt Southern Cross University we put our students first. Whether studying on-campus, online, or both, we deliver contemporary, high quality learning experiences.

Our aim is to produce graduates who are career ready. Since transforming from a teachers college in the 1970s, to a University in 1994, we have had more than 55,000 students successfully graduate.

Our students come from a diversity of backgrounds, and we have a strong focus on industry and community collaboration.

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The gold standard in businessA Master of Business Administration is widely regarded as the ultimate business management degree, covering finance, corporate governance, strategy and many other areas crucial to a career in organisational leadership.

Respected by employers The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), an association of 220 leading business schools from around the world, found that 96% of global companies say hiring recent business school graduates creates value for their companies. 86% of employers said they planned to hire MBA graduates in the coming year, and intended to increase the base starting salaries of the MBA graduates hired, at the rate of inflation or above.2

Endless career opportunitiesGMAC research also found that students undertake an MBA for many reasons, including the desire to switch careers, enhance their current role, take a significant career step up, or start their own business. Research also revealed an MBA gave some students unexpected opportunities, with almost 40% of MBA graduates now working in an industry they had never thought of working in before their degree.3

THE ADVANTAGE OF AN MBA Nearly 40% of graduates globally are

now working in an industry they had never thought about before their degree.

2 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey Report, 2017 3 GMAC Prospective Students Survey Report 2017

Between 2014 and 2017, as a preferred format for completing an MBA, online doubled in popularity.

Of people interested in an MBA: 3

Consider themselves to have

entrepreneurial goals

25%Are interested in international

employment

33%Only 15% say they’ll

continue to work for their current employer after

graduating

15%

of companies in the Asia-Pacific region planned to increase MBA salaries either at or above the rate of inflation in 2017.

59%

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WHY CHOOSE SCU ONLINE TO STUDY YOUR MBA

When you study online with SCU you can:

Apply what you learn to your jobSCU Online’s MBA enables you to study while you continue to work and make an impact on your career. From Economics and Quantitative Analysis to Organisational Change and Development, the coursework applies directly to your job.

Get qualified sooner

Our MBA is accelerated, which means you can study as many as six units in a year – each unit lasting seven weeks – and graduate sooner than you would studying in the traditional part-time

semester or trimester structure. Alternatively, you might study just two or three units over a year – you get to choose what works best for you.

You can also start at any of the six intakes a year – you don’t need to wait long to get started!

Be challenged academically

Our academics are widely published and passionate about providing a high quality education experience. They will ensure that your learning is rigorous, challenging you to think differently, perform at your highest

standard, and grow your knowledge and skills significantly.

Develop industry insights and connections

Our academics are industry-connected and have a wealth of professional knowledge in their teaching areas. They bridge the gap between academic theory and the application in business settings, bringing real-world examples to the digital classroom.

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Fit study into your scheduleWhen and how you study each week is up to you. Each seven-week study period is broken down into smaller learning and assessment blocks, providing you with solid structure and clear deliverables. You can study at any hour and any location, wherever you have a device and internet connection.

Choose a generalist MBA or specialise

You can study the generalist MBA or elect to specialise in one of four areas - Accounting, Health Services Management, Information and Knowledge Management, or Managing and Leading People.

Build a network of peers

Our interactive and social learning platform has been designed to enable you to network with your fellow students, regardless of their geographic location. Create professional networks, potential business partners, study buddies, and friends.

Feel supported and guided in your studyYou will have a dedicated Student Success Advisor who will support you throughout your entire study journey with us. They provide the non-academic support needed to get you through to graduation. Read more about the role of the Student Success Advisor.

You will also have regular engagement with the facilitator of each unit you study. They provide you with the academic support you need, including all assessment information.

Merylee CrockettDirector of Human Resources at Interactive

“”

There’s no doubt that the opportunities available to MBA graduates are vastly increased as a consequence of their studies. It’s an investment worth making.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL INTERVIEW

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The student experience at SCU Online is every bit as community-oriented as on-campus learning. Coursework involves interactive engagement. You’ll stay connected with your academics, unit facilitator and peers and create group chats to discuss upcoming assignments, tag someone if you want them to receive a chat notification or send them a private message.

Each unit is delivered via its own mini website so you can keep track of everything you need for each topic, all in one place. Discussion boards are created by each unit facilitator and dedicated to assignments and feedback. Online study means content is delivered to suit a variety of learning styles, enhancing outcomes.

Learning online in virtual classrooms helps our busy, professional students to balance work, study and family life. Unlike traditional university study, there are weekly collaboration sessions where facilitators and students come together to discuss questions regarding upcoming assignments and the weekly unit content. These sessions are recorded which means you do not miss any information if you cannot attend.

STUDYING ONLINE AT SCU

Courtney GeritzMBA Graduate from Southern Cross University Online

“”

The benefit of doing an online course is the fact I can do it when I want to - it’s flexible, it gives me the opportunity to work as well as have time with my family and friends on the weekends.

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The MBA is a versatile degree that prepares graduates for jobs across all industries. In 2017, students enrolled in our MBA were working across corporate, government and not-for-profit organisations. They worked across industries such as healthcare, education, financial services, industrial products and services, mining, and more.

Where our students call home

6% W.A

1% N.T

29% QLD

3% S.A

43% N.S.W 2%

A.C.T

14% VIC

2% TAS

Industries our students work in

Product/services

Education

Finance/accounting

Government/non-profit

Healthcare/pharmacy

Manufacturing

Tourism

Aged care

Energy/utilities

Hospitality

Mining

Retail

Consulting

31%

11%

7%

9%

17%

6%

4%

2%

2%

2%

2%

2%

4%

Hear from Paul Betts, SCU Online MBA Graduate

OUR MBA STUDENTS

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Can you tell us about your career and current role?I have worked in community services as well as health sectors for over 30 years, including disability, out-of-home care, youth services, aged care, mental health and early childhood. In my current role, I am an active member of the executive and senior management teams, and contribute to organisational strategic planning, policy development and implementation. I also lead a team of managers and am responsible for service delivery and business development.

Why did you choose to do an MBA with SCU Online? The not-for-profit sector is undergoing significant change and reform, requiring me to continue to develop and grow my skillset and knowledge in the business area. I felt that this course was broad, yet specific enough to meet my needs to allow me to continue to perform my role at the required high level.

What impact did the MBA have on your career? The course has enabled me to enhance my knowledge and practice, especially in the area of business development. It allowed me to not only learn and implement new ways of thinking and practicing, but also brought me up-to-date on terminology and efficiency gains in my work.

What goals did you want to achieve with the MBA and have you achieved them?To be better equipped to work in a more business-focussed way. And yes, it helped me achieve this, as I utilise the knowledge from the MBA every day.

Did you have specific skills you wanted to improve with the MBA and have you seen results?Project management and business terminology, both of which were enhanced through completing the course. This, in turn, has assisted me to better support staff and the business I work in.

Why did you choose SCU Online and what were the advantages for you to study online?I chose SCU Online because they offered a great selection of units, as well as a short, seven-week completion time for each unit. I appreciated the flexibility of online study, with easy accessibility to the learning environment, interaction with students, as well as recorded lectures that I could listen to and re-visit in my own time. Tutors were very available to answer queries and questions in a timely manner.

How did you manage your time?I studied while working full-time, and I believe a great deal of discipline, commitment and planning is required. My employer was supportive by providing me with study leave, so that helped a lot. During busy periods, I had to really prioritise my commitments, but it was well worth it. The time went very quickly from one subject to the next, through to completion.

Susanna LaurensMBA graduate, SCU OnlineDirector of Community Services and Business Development Windermere Child and Family Services

MEET A GRADUATE

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Dr Patrick Gillett is a lecturer at Southern Cross University and the Course Coordinator of the MBA program.

His area of expertise in MBA management-related subjects include: Organisational Behaviour, Organisational Change and Development, and Managing International Sport Events.

Dr Gillett is very familiar with the key challenges faced by students during their MBA journey and is particularly passionate about supporting students who are returning to formal studies after an extended period of time.

Aside from his teaching activities, Dr Gillett has also contributed to numerous commercial and government feasibility reports in areas such as high-speed rail and housing affordability. His current research interests are in management education and sport tourism.

Meet the Course CoordinatorDr Patrick Gillett

Before embarking on his academic career, Dr Gillett worked as a market researcher and sponsorship analyst for agencies in New York City and Australia.

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To achieve your Southern Cross University Online MBA, you will complete between 8 - 16 units of study, depending on previous education and experience. There are six study periods a year and you could complete the units you need in 16 - 32 months, dependent on your individual study schedule and unit requirements.

You can choose units from a selection of 12 core units and 10 elective units. You will also complete an Industry Research Project, which is the equivalent of two units as part of obtaining your degree.

You can either choose a generalist MBA or specialise. If you choose to complete one of the four specialisations, you will undertake two specific elective units that align with your chosen specialisation, in addition to your Industry Research Project. The selection of units to choose from and compulsory specialisation requirements are listed on the following page.

Achieving your goals by studying online is really achievable with the support available. However, if you need to exit your MBA earlier than expected, you could still receive a postgraduate business qualification via the Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma of Business, based on the number of units you have completed.

THE STRUCTURE OF OUR MBA4

4 Southern Cross University offers both online and on-campus versions of the MBA. This publication refers to the online version. Please check the Online MBA course listing at online.scu.edu.au for more information.

Total units:

8-16, (depending on previous education and experience)

Choose from:

12 core units and 10 elective units PLUS an Industry Research Project

Accounting

Information and Knowledge Management

Health Services Management

Managing and Leading People

Specialisations

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Master of Business

Administration12-16 units

Graduate Diploma

in Business8 units

or continue studying

Graduate Certificate in Business

4 unitsor continue studying

Core units

Management Communication

Organisational Behaviour

Economics and Quantitative Analysis

Accounting for Managers

Marketing

Finance for Managers

Corporate Governance for Managers

The Positive Leader

Project Management Principles

Global Business

Strategy and Case Analysis

Managing Information Systems

Specialisations Choose one specialisation or choose any two electives plus the Industry Research Project

ACCOUNTING

Business Accounting for Managers

Business and Corporation Law for Managers

Industry Research Project

INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT

Managing Digital Enterprise

Strategic Knowledge Management

Industry Research Project

HEALTH SERVICES MANAGEMENT (select two units, in addition to the Industry Research Project)

Healthcare Professional Portfolio

Leading Change in Healthcare

Principles and Practice of Clinical Accountability

Strategic Health Management

LEADING AND MANAGING PEOPLE

Organisational Change and Development

Human Resource Management

Industry Research Project

COURSE STRUCTURE

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Management Communication Learn how to prepare and deliver clear, powerful messages that look at analysis of strategies, as well as planning, writing and editing a series of business documents. You’ll develop the skills for effective written and verbal communication in business and management environments.

Organisational BehaviourExplore the vibrant, dynamic global business environment as well as the opportunities and threats it poses. You’ll examine the development of global business strategy, addressing strategic management, entry strategies, organisational design and the functional areas of marketing, finance and human resource management.

Economics and Quantitative AnalysisThis unit emphasises the aspects of microeconomics and macroeconomics most relevant to managers. Quantitative, analytical techniques for business and economics are introduced and applied.

Accounting for ManagersGain the financial and management accounting skills necessary to make informed, responsible decisions. You’ll undertake critical evaluations of financial statements and management accounting reports, and learn to make decisions responsibly and confidently.

MarketingExplore the diverse global market and how it is affected by marketing principles. In this unit, you’ll examine the psychology behind consumer behaviour and learn how to communicate with audiences through relationship and planning marketing.

Project Management PrinciplesThis unit covers the foundation elements of managing business projects – from initial planning communication to project closure. You’ll understand the principles behind project management and become expertly aware of time, change, risk and procurement. You’ll explore common obstacles within project management

and develop a problem-solving attitude that can be applied to your future management endeavours.

Global BusinessBecome a strategic, critical-thinking manager who can swiftly adapt to any international business setting. In this unit, you’ll study the global marketplace in many contexts, and analyse opportunities and threats to which businesses are exposed. By exploring differences across cultures, you’ll develop an understanding of varied political economies, cultural empathy and social responsibility in global business.

The Positive LeaderThis unit helps to develop your own style and approach to leadership and management through an understanding of theory and global practices. You’ll consider various leadership styles and how they may apply in your future industry roles.

The units in brief

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how to best manage vital information within a workplace. You’ll also develop an understanding of how to plan, develop and implement the most efficient new systems.

Industry Research ProjectIn this two-part unit, you’ll complete a substantial, independently directed research project across consecutive study periods. With the supervision of a staff member, you’ll investigate, produce and present a business report that can be presented to a board or industry panel.

Business Accounting for ManagersThis unit is designed for leaders looking to build on their exposure to accounting processes. In addition to using a range of professional tools, you’ll develop the ability to easily interpret and communicate financial implications to stakeholders.

Business and Corporation Law for ManagersA good leader requires more than business acumen alone and this unit recognises that. You’ll become well-versed in legal complexities relating to business management, and

Finance for ManagersThis unit will prepare you for making investments and dividend decisions. It introduces key concepts and tools, as well as providing context around financial management.

Corporate Governance for ManagersYou’ll critically evaluate contemporary corporate governance issues, while developing the skills and capabilities that directors and executive managers need to effectively discharge corporate governance responsibilities.

Strategy and Case AnalysisExplore the world of strategy within business environments, using case studies to demonstrate strategic management skills in real-world settings. You’ll adopt analytical, interpretive and evaluative approaches to organisations and their markets, developing an understanding of what influences business strategies.

Managing Information SystemsDiscover how to best use information systems to increase productivity within businesses. Understand

appreciate the influence they have on decisions made at senior level.

Healthcare Professional PortfolioDesigned to be a work in progress that showcases your successes and achievements (measuring them against established professional standards), this unit asks you to build a portfolio that you’ll take with you throughout your healthcare career.

Leading Change in HealthcareEvaluate and critically reflect on leadership, and apply that knowledge to drive change and innovation within health and social care. Explore organisational environments in depth to identify and respond to opportunities for change, applying various leadership theories in a healthcare context.

The units in brief

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The units in brief

Principles and Practice of Clinical AccountabilityAnalyse the role of accountability and clinical governance from a healthcare perspective, as well as evaluate concepts of professional accountability within organisations. You’ll be encouraged to develop a critical approach to examining your worldview of service improvement and effective clinical outcomes.

Strategic Health ManagementExamine health service management from a strategic and planning perspective. You’ll explore the internal and external factors that impact contemporary healthcare environments.

Managing Digital EnterpriseIn this unit, you’ll learn how to deal with managerial issues in digital enterprises and gain a better understanding of the challenges that might arise with modern technology in regards to security, legal and ethical issues.

Strategic Knowledge ManagementCover core theoretical and practical concepts of knowledge management. From a managerial perspective, you’ll examine knowledge management models and develop an appreciation for how various business functions contribute to the strategic management of knowledge.

Organisational Change and DevelopmentChange is often very necessary, and the execution of such change requires a diagnostic approach to business situation analysis. Learn how to recognise the need for change, and which internal and external factors may present obstacles during the transition process.

Human Resource ManagementAs an opportunity to learn about the strategic application of human resources (HR), this unit explores the role and goals of HR and HR management in business. You’ll develop the skills to impart visionary organisational plans and processes to effectively lead people.

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YOUR STUDENT SUCCESS ADVISOR

Just before you begin your course, one of our Student Success Advisors will be in touch with you via phone, chat or email. They can help plan your study schedule and give you advice while you’re studying.

Sarah is one of Southern Cross’ most experienced advisors. She answered some frequently asked questions about what she does:

What are your responsibilities as a Student Success Advisor?We work as an extra pair of eyes and ears for a student, ensuring they’re on track with their assessments, enrolled in the correct units and don’t miss any important dates. Most importantly, we are a listening ear and a motivator, helping students get over the finish line when life gets busy.

The most important part of my role is to support a student from the beginning of their study journey until graduation. I like to think of my role as being a ‘one stop shop’ for students with non-academic questions about their course, from “How do I get my text books?” to “Is it ok for me to take holidays?”

What are the skills that make a great Student Success Advisor?I think a desire to really help people is essential. Students start their course with a goal and a certain level of motivation, but this fluctuates as they juggle life’s responsibilities and their studies. You need to be able to assist students in a variety of situations and calmly advise them while keeping the student’s best interest in mind.

Why do you believe your role is important?Studying online is still a very new experience for most students. Students feel reassured knowing that they have a dedicated advisor who is there with them from the beginning and can assist them with a variety of enquiries.

Sarah Arakelian Student Success Advisor

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”Mary BromleyMBA Graduate from Southern Cross University Online

“My Student Success Advisor provides an empathetic ear and suggests resolutions when I’m having issues.

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HOW TO FIT STUDY INTO YOUR LIFEThanks to the convenience and flexibility of online study - completing a Masters degree has never been more achievable.

Know your distractions and limit themIf you know that a particular time of day or place doesn’t suit your study habits, avoid it. Schedule your time so that you can work in your ideal setting. Be aware of what does and does not work for you, and ensure you stick to it.

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Make use of your downtimeShort study sessions help the synapses in your brain process information much better than lots of information in long sessions. Try setting aside 30 minutes before or after work to dedicate to your study. Chipping away at your studies regularly helps you avoid becoming overwhelmed and work towards achieving your study goals.

Set goals and write listsMake a list of study goals and tick them off when you complete them. Not only will it motivate you and give you a sense of achievement, it will help you feel in control and reduce study stress.

READ MORE TIPS AND TRICKS FOR SUCCESSFUL STUDY FROM ONE OF OUR MBA GRADUATES, PAUL BETTS.

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Trent PlayfordPharmacy Owner and current MBA student

A DAY IN THE LIFE

I am a community pharmacy owner on the Central Coast of NSW and the President of the Central Coast Pharmacists Association. During my MBA course, I became a first-time father. I enjoy training for and competing in Ultra Marathons. I undertook the Masters program to improve my business and to future-proof my skills, rather than be heavily reliant on the pharmacy industry. I found the course’s flexibility worked well with my lifestyle and work commitments.

5:45amWake up and head to the gym or out for a run.

7:30pmEat dinner and have some downtime.

8:30am - 6:00pmDuring this time, I work as a community pharmacist. I try to utilise any downtime to review assignments and prepare a schedule for completing assessment work.

SaturdayI spend mornings at kinder-gym to tire out the little man. While he sleeps in the afternoon and into the evening, I use this time to complete assessments.

7:00amArrive home and wake up my son, change him and prepare his bag for the day. I have a shower and enjoy a breakfast smoothie.

8:30pm - 10:30pmI set this time aside to complete readings and begin my research for the assessment tasks.

6:30pmArrive home from work to bath my son. Help him get ready for bed, then cook dinner while my wife puts him down to sleep.

SundayFamily time!

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Kara RobinsonSales coordinator and current Graduate Diploma of Business student

A DAY IN THE LIFE

I work full time and maintain a healthy work-life balance, while completing my Graduate Diploma in Business.

I currently work for a small business as a Sales Coordinator, however I am also providing the business with monthly reporting and analytics, project management, business support, event coordination and continuous improvement activity.

Once I graduate I’ll be able to develop my career in project management and business support, and find a role in continuous improvement at a large business.

9:00amGet to work and make coffee, while catching up with work colleagues.

6:00pmWalk my dog and debrief the work day with my partner.

1:00pmPrepare data to present at the Sales Meeting.

7:30pmStart reading weekly content.

12:00pmEat lunch while planning my study for the next seven weeks around my social events. I also like to read through my assignment information.

6:30pmPrepare and eat dinner.

1:30pmRun the Sales Meeting.

9:00pmWatch Netflix.

SaturdayHave a coffee and study in the morning until 1.00pm. After lunch, it’s time for social activities.

SundayEnjoy social activities in the morning and beginning of the afternoon. Study from 3.00pm until dinner.

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Entry requirements Fees and financial assistance

To qualify for entry into the Master of Business Administration, you must demonstrate your professional standing.

You should either have a Bachelor degree (or a similar qualification), or have at least five years of managerial experience that the School Board, upon application, regard as equivalent to a degree.

You must also be proficient in English.

Unit price: $2520*

The total cost of the degree will depend on whether you end up completing the full MBA (which includes 16 units) and whether you are eligible for advanced standing (see Page 22).

The government loan scheme that applies to most postgraduate courses is known as FEE-HELP. Australian citizens and holders of a Permanent Humanitarian visa who are residing within Australia are eligible to access FEE-HELP.

Using this program, you can borrow enough money from the Commonwealth Government to cover your course fees. Once your income reaches a certain level, you will pay the loan back via the tax system.

For more information on fees and the FEE-HELP loan, call us on 1300 589 882.

ADMISSIONS

* 2018 domestic student fees are shown and are subject to change. An additional $25 Student Services Amenities Fee applies to each unit. If you are planning to study in your own country outside of Australia, please contact us to discuss your fees. 2121

Advanced standingSouthern Cross University recognises relevant prior learning through a process known as advanced standing. It’s a way of giving credit to a student when we can see that they already possess knowledge and skills covered in one or more units.

If you have a relevant undergraduate degree, formal or informal learning, and/or extensive managerial experience, you may be eligible to receive advanced standing.

If you’ve already completed a Graduate Diploma or a Bachelor in Business (Honours) degree, you may receive advanced standing. This means you could complete your degree in under two years.

How to applyA Student Enrolment Advisor can help determine whether you have the study prerequisites and/or work experience required to gain entry into the degree.

They will give you advice on advanced standing and help you gather all the documents and evidence you’ll need to apply, including your CV, transcripts and certificates from any past studies and evidence of your English language skills (if you speak English as a second language).

Visit online.scu.edu.au/apply

Speak to an enrolment advisor on 1300 589 882:

Monday, Tuesday and Friday: 9am – 6pm (GMT+11)

Wednesday and Thursday: 9am – 7pm (GMT+11)

Alternatively, you can schedule a call with one of our advisors today.

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If you have any questions about the SCU Online MBA, our dedicated Student Enrolment Advisors are here to help.

You can reach them on 1300 589 882 or click below to schedule a call.

SCHEDULE A CALL

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