Master of International Business

Master of International Business

POSTGRADUATE

Expand your expertise in the global business marketplace.

Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus and blended
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 2 years
Part-time 4 years
Reduced duration available
Fees:

AU$32,640 (2023 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus and blended
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
Full-time 2 years or 1.5 years accelerated
Fees:

AU$43,200 (2023 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City

Overview

Develop your skills in research, operational leadership, cross-cultural competency, analytical and technical competency, problem-solving and effective communication.

You'll also address the challenges of doing business internationally by applying critical common sense to corporate and societal issues, act responsibly, and recognise the impact of international business in a global environment.

A close-up shot of a laptop and two hands on the keyboard

Gain the skills to manage and lead

Study specialised courses in global business and sustainable futures and choose from a wide range of elective courses that give you the flexibility to undertake complementary studies in line with your career aspirations. 

Why study international business at RMIT?

Improve your skills

Core courses, case studies and learning activities will provide you with the capacity to understand the key components of international business operations.

Advance your career

You'll develop a broad understanding of practices of contemporary international business, making them competitive assets to multinational corporations, joint ventures, financial institutions, law firms, and consulting firms catering to a global clientele.

Grow your network

Build your network while you study with opportunities including a business internship elective or working with business and career mentors. Graduate with the connections to succeed in a globally connected industry.

What you will study

This degree builds on the knowledge and skills necessary for critical and creative approaches to international business by providing advanced study in contemporary international business theory and practice that is supported by ethical and sustainable business decision-making. It will also provide you with the capacity to address the international regulation of business and critically evaluate the impacts of decisions and practice through case studies and interactive and experiential learning activities.

Learn the fundamentals of:

  • Management
  • Accounting
  • Marketing
  • International logistics
Night time view of Bangkok city skyline

Learn here, succeed anywhere

At RMIT, we understand the importance of providing students with real-world experiences and the skills to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market.

The Master of International Business is designed with the oversight of an Industry Advisory Board to ensure students graduate with the skills required to be successful in business in both domestic and international environments.

Details

Gain the skills you need to investigate complex problems and address the important challenges of sustainable international business.

The Master of International Business is designed for students seeking global careers in private, public or not-for-profit organisations. It will provide you with the skills to critically engage with the concepts, theories and methods, as well as the contemporary practices of international business including research, operational leadership, cross-cultural competency, analytical and technical competency, problem-solving and effective communication.

This degree is available at the Melbourne City campus, offering up to two intakes a year.

Most courses are presented in regular 3-hour classes, together with some periods of intensive teaching during the evenings, or as full day or weekend sessions at the Melbourne City campus. The exact format varies from course to course. Students might be required to undertake solo or group work, and independent study and project work outside of teaching periods.

RMIT offers a variety of learning and teaching approaches including lectures, seminars, studios, workshops, presentations, group discussions and syndicate work. In addition, you will have access to online and digital resources such as lecture notes, assessment tools, discussion boards and podcasts.

You will be able to view online resources and learning activities created by lecturers, access course materials, collaborate with lecturers and fellow students, and access your student email account.

Educational software, the Learning Hub, other online and digital resources and printers are accessible on campus via the RMIT wireless network using your own laptop, tablet or smart phone or via computer facilities on-campus. You will be able to access the same software from home using myDesktop.

Methods of assessment will vary between courses and may involve writing reports and essays, research and reasoning, and oral presentations. Assignments and projects may be based on case study scenarios, specific problems, real-life applications of theory in practice, business simulations and research. They may be undertaken in teams or individually.

Blended learning options

Courses offered as part of blended learning programs include a meaningful blend of online, on-campus, and workplace based learning tailored to the type of study you undertake. This learning is active, prioritising tasks that involve exploration and development of skills and knowledge through interaction and engagement.

Online aspects provide positive benefits such as flexibility and adaptability using digital activities and materials, while also strengthening the interaction and connection with timetabled and on-campus experiences such as tutorials, practicals, or workshops.

Guiding the development of the College of Business, both nationally and internationally, is an Industry Advisory Board of high-profile executives. The Board creates a strategic bridge between the latest in technology and design thinking and business.

Work-connected and industry-relevant options available for this degree include:

  • Working in a student team as part of the Fastrack Innovation Program. In this elective course you will work with mentors to develop and present a solution to a real problem. This form of fast-prototyping is designed so that external organisations can tap into fresh thinking from RMIT students.
  • Business Internship elective where you take up a position for one or two days per week for one semester. This position is normally unpaid and is designed to develop your soft skills and increase your overall employability upon graduation.
  • BUSM4598 Business Skills for Start Ups, a course designed for students interested in starting up their own business.

Global study and work is a unique feature of the degree.

You can combine an overseas travel and cultural experience with coursework completed in intensive mode and have this credited towards your degree. They depart during the Australian summer or winter vacations and are usually undertaken in the final semester of the master degree.

If you are planning to include a study tour as part of your degree, you are advised to check that you have the required number of student electives or credit points available.

Global work, exchange and study experiences

RMIT offers a range of opportunities for our students to study abroad through global work, exchange and study experiences with over 165 partner universities worldwide.

  • 1.5 years full-time or part-time equivalent (with advanced standing)
  • 2 years full-time or part-time equivalent (without advanced standing)

For further information about advanced standing see Credits and Masters exemptions.

Depending on your previous studies and experience you could also be eligible for credit towards your program. Credit granted may reduce the amount of study you need to complete.

For more information please see RMIT’s credit transfer and recognition of prior learning policy.

  • 1.5 years (with advanced standing)
  • 2 years (without advanced standing)

For further information about advanced standing see Credits and Masters exemptions.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

View the learning outcomes for each stream:

The Master degree comprises core and elective courses.

  • Study specialised courses in global business and sustainable futures.
  • Contemporary Issues in International Management in the first year of the program requires you to study in-depth an important management issue of current interest.
  • The wide range of elective courses available at RMIT gives you the flexibility to undertake complementary studies in line with your career aspirations.
  • Explore a complex problem, and test and evaluate potential solutions with industry and community stakeholders in the course Business Research Design.

Core courses, case studies and learning activities will provide you with the capacity to address the international regulation of business, apply critical common sense to corporate and societal issues, act responsibly, and understand the consequences of actions beyond your immediate work environment.

If you are interested in starting up your own business, you may want to find out more about BUSM4598 Business Skills for Start Ups, an elective course that covers the key stages of enterprise formation from concept through to launch.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Master of International Business
Program code: MC192

Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Master of International Business
City Campus
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent (or 1.5 years FT or PT equivalent with advanced standing)
MC192EXE15
078875D
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent (or 1.5 years FT or PT equivalent with advanced standing)
Plan code
MC192EXE15
CRICOS
078875D
Master of International Business
City Campus
2 years full-time
MC192EXE15
078875D
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years full-time
Plan code
MC192EXE15
CRICOS
078875D
Master of International Business
City Campus
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent (or 1.5 years FT or PT equivalent with advanced standing)
MC192P15
078875D
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent (or 1.5 years FT or PT equivalent with advanced standing)
Plan code
MC192P15
CRICOS
078875D
Master of International Business
City Campus
2 years full-time
MC192P15
078875D
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years full-time
Plan code
MC192P15
CRICOS
078875D

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

Office meeting space with many people seated around a long table, looking towards a man standing in front of a white-board, presenting information

Take your career to the next level

Gain the skills required to investigate complex problems and address the important challenges of sustainable international business.

You will graduate with a broad approach to methods and practices of contemporary international business.

These attributes make our graduates a valuable asset to multinational corporations, joint ventures, financial institutions, law firms, consulting firms and manufacturers of both goods and services for whom catering to a global clientele is core business.

The following are some of the most common positions available in the international business field:

  • International Business Development Manager/Consultant
  • CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Manager
  • Sustainable Business Manager/Consultant
  • International Mergers and Acquisitions Specialist
  • International Investment Manager
  • Import/Export Agent.

Course accreditation or membership offered by professional bodies signals to employers the quality and relevance of RMIT's courses and opens up career pathways and networks.

Professional bodies accredit or recognise courses as meeting professional and academic standards deemed to be essential for a new graduate entering into that profession. An accredited course will either enable the graduate to enter directly into a professional qualifications program or provide the graduate with exemptions or credit towards a post university professional qualification.

Statutory accreditation

This type of accreditation is where a statutory body must approve a course of study in order for a graduate to practise in that profession.

Membership

Professional bodies or associations are representative organisations of professions that provide membership and other career development support to its members. Many professional bodies offer membership opportunities for students and new graduates with benefits such as career advice, networking within the profession and access to resources not available through the university. The aim of these benefits is to assist with your transition from university into the profession.

Master of International Business

Current course accreditations and information about membership and development opportunities for students and graduates.

Institute of Managers and Leaders (IML)

Membership and opportunities
  • Graduates eligible for membership category: Affiliate

Visit the Institute of Managers and Leaders website

Export Council of Australia (ECA)

Membership and opportunities
  • Students eligible for membership category: Student
  • Graduates eligible for membership category: Individual

Visit the Export Council of Australia website

Admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following entry requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

2 year duration

  • An Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent), or higher-level qualification,  in any discipline from a recognised tertiary institution.

1.5 year duration

  • An Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent), or higher-level qualification, in a business or related discipline from a recognised tertiary institution*

    OR
  • An Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent), or higher-level qualification, from a recognised tertiary institution in any discipline plus a minimum of two years relevant work

    OR

*If your qualification was completed more than 10 years ago you will need to provide evidence of ongoing professional work and/or professional development in the same discipline as the program for which you are seeking entry to be granted advanced standing.

^Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate you will have the opportunity to progress to the Master degree.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

2 year duration

You must have successfully completed an Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent overseas qualification) or higher level qualification in any discipline from a recognised tertiary institution.

1.5 year duration

You must have successfully completed:

An Australian Bachelor degree, (or equivalent overseas qualification) or higher level qualification in a business (or related) discipline from a recognised tertiary institution*.

OR

The RMIT Graduate Certificate in International Business^ .

*Qualification must have been completed within the last 10 years.   

^Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate you will have the opportunity to progress to the Master degree.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.

Pathways

The Graduate Certificate in International Business is a pathway to the Master of International Business.

Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate in International Business you can continue your studies in the Master of International Business and receive 48 credit points worth of credit (equivalent to one semester of full-time study) for courses completed in the Graduate Certificate in International Business. 

Masters advanced standing

If you have successfully completed one of the following qualifications within the last 10 years with a major in a business or related discipline, you may be eligible for advanced standing as follows: 

Qualification level Masters exemptions offered Remaining program duration*
Bachelor degree (AQF level 7) 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester of full-time study) 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters of full-time study)
Bachelor degree (Honours) (AQF level 8)   Up to 96 credit points (equivalent to two semester of full-time study) 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study)
Graduate Certificate (AQF level 8) 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester of full-time study) 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters of full-time study)
Graduate Diploma (AQF level 8) Up to 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study) 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study)
Master degree (AQF level 9) Up to 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study) 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full time study)

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy for Australian qualifications in vocational and higher education.

Credit and recognition of prior learning

Applicants with a bachelor degree (honours), graduate certificate, graduate diploma or masters qualification majoring in a different discipline may also be eligible for credit transfer of up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full time study).

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this masters degree, you may be eligible to undertake further studies in related programs at RMIT University, including postgraduate research programs, subject to the program's entrance requirements.

When you successfully complete the Graduate Certificate in International Business you are guaranteed entry into the Master of International Business with 1 semester of advanced standing (equivalent to 48 credit points).

Alternatively, you can gain entry into this degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs.

Master Advanced Standing

If you have successfully completed one of the following qualifications within the last 10 years with a major in a business or related discipline, you may be eligible for advanced standing as follows: 

Qualification level Advanced standing Remaining program duration
Bachelor degree (AQF level 7) 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full time study) 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters full time study)
Bachelor honours degree (AQF level 8) 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study) 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study)
Graduate certificate (AQF level 8) 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full time study) 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters full time study)
Graduate diploma (AQF level 8) 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study) 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study)

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy for Australian qualifications in vocational and higher education.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit.

Credits

Applicants with a bachelor honours degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or masters degree qualification majoring in a different discipline may also be eligible for credit transfer of up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full time study).

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and weightings, and reference to the learning resources.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this degree, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

Fees

2023 indicative fees

  • Full-fee places: AU$32,640.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$326 maximum fee for 2023*.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment*

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

*Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

This program is offered on a full-fee paying basis only. If you are offered a place, you will need to pay the full tuition costs of your program. However, eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2023 is $326. 

For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.

FEE-HELP loans

Eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

You may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to your employment.

See the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

The annual tuition fee for 2023 is AU$43,200.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2023 commencement is AU$86,400. (full 2 year program plan MC192P15).

For students who meet the entry requirements for the 1.5 years program (program plan MC192EXE15), the total indicative tuition fee for 2023 commencement is AU$65,280.

If you do not meet the entry requirements, you will be offered a place in the full two year program.

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.