Associate Degree of Business

Key Information

Registration and Accreditation

TEQSA Course ID: CRS1200279
CRICOS Course Code: 068407D
AQF level: 6

Duration

2 years full-time
16 units

Associated Qualifications

Diploma of Business
Bachelor of Business

Locations

Sydney
Melbourne
Adelaide

Student Type

Domestic
International

Study Load

Full-time
Part-time

Study Mode

Face-to-face
Blended

Intakes

Trimester 1: January
Trimester 2: May
Trimester 3: September
Trimester 4: November (adhoc)

Course Overview

At UBSS, our Associate Degree of Business is designed to help you build a strong foundation in essential business concepts that are key to thriving in today’s global marketplace.

This two-year program includes sixteen (16) core units (each worth 10 credit points) and offers a practical, hands-on approach to learning. You’ll get the chance to work on real-world projects, develop your business skills, and prepare for a wide range of career opportunities—from entry-level roles to future leadership positions.

Plus, the Associate Degree provides a direct pathway into the Bachelor of Business, giving you the flexibility to continue your studies and future-proof your career. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upskill, UBSS is here to support your growth every step of the way.

Course Structure

Year 1

Unit Code	Unit Name	Credit Points
BAS22	Advanced Business Communication	10
BBM123	Management Principles	10
BAC21	Quantitative Methods	10
BAP12	Accounting for Business	10
BAS11	Business Economics	10
BAS121	Marketing Fundamentals	10
BBM251	Cross Cultural Management	10
BAP11	Principles of Accounting	10
	Total	80

Year 2

Unit Code	Unit Name	Credit Points
BBM265	Organisational Behaviour	10
BBM222	Human Resource Management	10
BBC131	Business Law	10
BBM241	Operations Management	10
BBM351	Project Management	10
BAP352	Risk Management	10
BBM221	Marketing Management	10
BAC41	Management Information Systems	10
	Total	80

Course Learning Outcomes

Decide

Apply theoretical and technical business knowledge to solve organisational problems, demonstrating an understanding of commercial, social, and ethical implications.

Analyse

Critically evaluate business issues, using relevant frameworks and data to assess strategies and make informed recommendations.

Communicate

Express business concepts, insights, and recommendations effectively in professional settings using appropriate communication techniques and digital tools.

Implement

Integrate business knowledge and technical skills to execute solutions in diverse business contexts, ensuring compliance with industry and professional standards.

Integrate

Apply business concepts and professional standards to address workplace challenges and contribute to organisational effectiveness.

Course Fees

At GCA, our course fees are designed and set to ensure that every professional has the opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge.

FEE-HELP (Domestic Students) – GCA is a higher education provider that has been approved to offer FEE-HELP. This allows our students to receive FEE-HELP loan assistance to cover some or all of their tuition fees should they wish to do so. You can apply for FEE-HELP during your application process. Click below for a full list of course fees.

Entry Requirements

The requirements for studying an Associate Degree of Business with GCA are designed to ensure we maintain the high quality of education that GCA provides to aspiring business professionals and entrepreneurs of tomorrow.

Entry to the Associate Degree of Business is available through a proven record of completion of the Graduate Certificate in Business Administration from GCA.

Credit and
Recognition of
Prior Learning (RPL)

Credit

Formal Learning
GCA recognises formal learning delivered through recognised institutions and organisations, leading to qualifications or certified achievements, including those awarded by recognised higher education providers, accredited vocational education providers, professional bodies or associations or structured workplace training programs leading to recognised qualifications.

GCA recognises prior learning through various mechanisms as outlined in our Recognition of Prior Learning Policy. These mechanisms include:

Block credit
Specified credit
Unspecified credit
Credit transfer
Conditional credit

Each application will be assessed on an individual basis by qualified staff with relevant expertise in the discipline area. Applications should be made as early as possible before enrolling in units to allow for processing and consideration of any credit awarded.

RPL

GCA recognises prior learning through various credit mechanisms, as outlined in the Recognition of Prior Learning Policy. GCA formally recognises prior learning achievements in various ways, including:

Professional and Academic Experience
Additionally, GCA recognises professional and academic achievements and contributions in professional practice, academic disciplines, and industry leadership, acknowledging expertise developed outside traditional education pathways. This may include leadership roles in a relevant professional field, significant industry experience, and industry-recognised innovations and achievements.

Non-Formal Learning
GCA may also grant recognition for non-formal learning or educational activities that occur outside formal qualifications that demonstrate achievements of specific knowledge and skills. This may include structured workplace training, professional development programs, specialised technical training, professional body education programs, or micro-credentials awarded by GCA or selected institutions.

Admissions Procedure

To enrol in your Associate Degree of Business, you must complete the enrolment form below.

Before submitting your application, please ensure that you have electronic copies of your personal identification documents, academic certificates of completion and academic transcripts. These will all be required to be attached to your online application.

Once you have submitted your application, one of our admissions staff will contact you. If you are successful, you will receive a letter of offer from our admissions team.

If you are outside of Australia and intend to apply for a student visa, you will be required to pay a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) fee as part of your tuition fees.

Completion Requirements

TEQSA Course ID: CRS1200279

CRICOS Course Code: 068407D

To exit with an Associate Degree of Business, you will be required to complete 16 units (160 credit points)

TEQSA Course ID: CRS1200280

CRICOS Course Code: 068410J

To exit with a Diploma of Business, you will be required to complete 8 units (80 credit points).

Assessment Methods

GCA is committed to ensuring that all assessments are valid, reliable, and fair. Assessments will be designed and conducted in a manner that accurately measures student achievement against the intended learning outcomes and that is free from bias and discrimination. At GCA, you may be assessed in various ways, including diagnostic, formative, and summative assessments. Examples of formal and informal methods of assessment are outlined below:

Written assignments (essays, reports, research papers)
Examinations, tests and quizzes
Project work
Presentations
Performance tasks
Portfolio development
Laboratory work
In-class observations
Learning interactions
Formative feedback
Group work monitoring
Student consultations

For more detailed information, please see our Assessment Policy.

Our Partners

Recognised Industry Affiliations

The GCA Associate Degree of Business is professionally affiliated with the Institute of Managers and Leaders, providing you with direct access to industry organisations, specialist resources, and valuable networks. These connections enrich your studies and open doors to career opportunities, supporting your growth both during and after your degree.

Through our extensive network, you have the opportunity to develop meaningful industry relationships, acquire practical knowledge, and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals representing prominent national and international organisations in the business sector.

Study with GCA

Study at an internationally recognised business school and join many other high-achieving students who have chosen GCA to help shape their future in the professional world.