Study Bachelor of Business (Economics, Finance and Trade) (Pathway to Master of Finance) at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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You're considered an International student if you are:

NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)

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International students

Start date
February
July

Campus
City West

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus/Online

Program Code
DBIB

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 38,300 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

Admissions
Student Profile

English Language Requirements

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
027743E

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.

Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.

Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:

Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points

Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.

OR
Higher education study

Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education
institution, or
Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above

OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above

OR
Work and life experience

Qualify for Special Entry, or
Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past

Essential requirements for admission

Achieve a GPA of 4.0 or above on completion of their second year of study to be eligible.

Prerequisites

None

Assumed Knowledge

None

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

English language test

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)

Admission Requirements by Country

Bangladesh HSC	4
Canada High School (OSSD)	65
Eynesbury FSP	330
German Abitur	3.5
Kenya KCSE (average)	B+
Malaysia STPM (best 3)	6
Malaysia UEC	30
Norway GPA	3
Pakistan HSSC	85
Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3)	7
Sweden GPA	13
UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board	7
Vietnam	7.5
Australia	70
IB (best 6)	26
USA SAT (1600)	1110
India (best 4) State Board	75
India (best 4) Central Board	65
HKDSE	15
Nepal NEB	2.61

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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Degree overview

Complete a business undergraduate and postgraduate finance degree in just four years through our Fast-track to Masters program.
Graduate with a highly diverse skill-set and broader career opportunities.
Gain real-world experience through an industry internship, a mentorship opportunity or an overseas study tour
Both on campus and mixed mode study options are available, providing you with flexibility throughout your studies.
Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate, with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses.
Gain a solid grounding in core business concepts and tailor your studies to suit your career interests.
Engage with simulated financial markets in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus, which includes a market data feed and trading tools – the same technology used by the world's leading banks and investment firms.
Develop an in-depth understanding of the global business environment with a focus on national and international economies, public policies, economic exchange and global trade activities.
Enjoy the flexibility of a broad business degree and create your own study plan based on your career goals.
UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
Study at a university recognised globally in Business. UniSA Business is in the top one per cent worldwide and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence¹.
Study at a Top 5 business school in Australia for quality².
Study at the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers in Business and Management³.
Study at a university ranked No.1 in South Australia for Business and Economics⁴.

¹UniSA Business is one of just 13 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2024. 2023 QS Stars Business School Ratings. ²Ranked #5, Australian Financial Review BOSS Best Business Schools List 2023. ³ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020-22 – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities. ⁴2024 THE Subject Rankings.

Snapshot

This Fast-track to Masters program allows you to fast-track your career by completing an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in just four years. You will be able to diversify your skill set, increase your earning potential with a more advanced qualification, and expand your career opportunities across a range of fields.

Develop an in-depth understanding of the global business environment focusing on currency markets, exchange and global trade, and how they operate worldwide.

You will gain a unique blend of analytical, conceptual and strategic problem-solving skills for a range of industry sectors, and have the chance to learn in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus.

With a Master of Finance you will be equipped to manage the challenges of the fast-developing global finance industry.

This degree has a strong focus on experience-based learning. You will have access to practical-based courses which use simulated financial markets in the Finance Trading Room to enhance your learning and engage in real world practical tasks in specialised fields in Finance. You can also choose to enhance your business consulting skills and experience through a professional business placement in Australia or overseas.

You will also benefit from experience-based learning opportunities, including overseas study and business mentoring. Our summer and winter schools also offer exciting study and learning opportunities.

Want to look at other options available to you? UniSA offer a wide range of other Fast-track to Masters programs.

What you'll learn

Your undergraduate degree will start with core courses in areas such as analytics, accounting and economic theory. These will give you a solid grasp of business fundamentals that you can apply to a range of careers. You’ll then branch out into your specialisation, and learn the latest in areas such as macroeconomics, economics of public policy and analysis; portfolio and fund management; and international currency and banking markets. You can also embark on an overseas study tour, undertake an industry placement, or work on an industry-related research project.

The Master of Finance will explore areas such as financial theory and markets, investment management, corporate finance as well as econometrics.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Principles of Economics	ECON 1008	4.5	Note(s): 2,3,4
Accounting for Business	ACCT 1008	4.5	Note(s): 3
Marketing Principles: Trading and Exchange	MARK 1010	4.5	Note(s): 3
Business and Society	BUSS 1057	4.5	Note(s): 3
OR
International Study Tour		4.5	Note(s): 5
OR
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Business Law	LAWS 1018	4.5	Note(s): 3
Quantitative Methods for Business	MATH 1053	4.5	Note(s): 2,3
Career Development in Business	BUSS 1060	4.5	Note(s): 3
Macroeconomics	ECON 1007	4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Entrepreneurship for Social and Market Impact	BUSS 2085	4.5
Growth Development and the Macroeconomy	ECON 2012	4.5
Economic Analysis of Business Decisions	ECON 2010	4.5
Management and Organisation	BUSS 2068	4.5	Note(s): 3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
International Business Environments	BUSS 3103	4.5
OR
International Elective		4.5	Note(s): 6
Empirical Business Analysis	ECON 2007	4.5
Business Finance	BANK 2007	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Portfolio and Fund Management	BANK 3004	4.5
Business Ethics	BUSS 5384	4.5
Investment Management	BANK 5013	4.5
International Finance	BANK 5028	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Economics of Public Policy	ECON 3007	4.5
International Economics	ECON 3008	4.5
Financial Theory and Financial Markets	BANK 5014	4.5
Strategic Financial Analysis	BUSS 3083	4.5

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
Experiential Electives
Business Internship 30 Days	BUSS 3010	9
Business Decision Making Simulation	BUSS 3074	4.5
Solving Business Challenges	BUSS 3079	4.5
Business Practicum	BUSS 3080	4.5
Virtual Industry Internship	BUSS 3100	4.5
Social Enterprise Case Competition	BUSS 2087	4.5
Suggested Electives
Negotiated Project	BUSS 3112	4.5
Property Economics	ECON 2013	4.5
Financial Markets and Institutions	BANK 1005	4.5
Business Virtual Study Tour - Undergraduate	BUSS 2070	4.5
Property Investment	BANK 3007	4.5
Discovering Opportunities in Property	BUSS 1055	4.5
Corporate Valuation and Risk Management	BANK 3009	4.5

Rules & notes

Notes

1. Electives may be used to: complete an Experiential Elective (refer to Experiential Electives listing); undertake an international student exchange up to 18 units; or to study other courses of interest offered by UniSA Business including the options provided in the Suggested Electives list; or complete a language study option. One elective may be chosen from outside UniSA Business. Course pre-requisites must be satisfied.

2. Students who have been granted block credit who have not previously studied courses in economics or quantitative methods, must undertake these courses as an elective.

3. Students that have been assessed as completing a qualification in a business discipline at AQF diploma level or equivalent and have received 36 units of block credit aren't required to complete this course.

4. Students who have received an Economics Career Grant (ECG) for completion of SACE Stage 2 Economics* with a B+ or higher should not complete this course but undertake a professional development elective approved by their program director within three years of commencement of their program, as outlined in their grant letter of offer. Students are required to complete an online course as outlined in their grant letter of offer. *Or interstate equivalent to be determined by UniSA Business.

5. View available Overseas Study Opportunities at https://www.unisa.edu.au/global-experiences/study-overseas/ or contact short.programs@unisa.edu.au

6. The International Elective may be used: to complete an overseas practicum; as part of a full semester overseas exchange; or complete an International Elective option approved by the Program Director.

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

reports, project documentation, case studies and presentations
essays and assignments
examinations
industry-relevant, research-based projects
practicals and team-based projects
participation in the workplace and in class

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Why Bachelor of Business (Economics, Finance and Trade) (Pathway to Master of Finance)

This Fast-track to Masters program enables you to commence a 3-year Bachelor of Business (Economics, Finance and Trace) and secure a place in a 1-year Master of Finance (typically 1.5 years) in just four years of study.

You will fast track your progression into the master’s qualification by substituting four selected courses or electives in your bachelor's degree to complete master’s-level courses.

As part of this degree, you will develop the analytical skills to interpret the economic factors driving global economy, trade and exchange, and financial markets You will gain practical skills with our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room, which includes a market data feed and financial analysis tools.

In your postgraduate studies, you’ll focus on corporate finance and governance, investment management, behavioural finance and international finance. You will develop expertise in critical and strategic thinking within a highly-regulated industry framework. Under the guidance of our experienced research professionals, you will strengthen your research and analytical skills. You can also choose to enhance your business consulting skills and professional experience through 150 hours of business placement in Australia or overseas.

As a graduate, you can rest assured this program is a globally competitive degree that is respected internationally for its quality and relevance to industry. Therefore, as a graduate you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills required by industry.

UniSA Business is the only business school in South Australia accredited by both AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies recognising excellence in business education and research at a global level. These dual accreditations demonstrate the high standards we hold across all areas such as teaching, student learning and research, as well as our commitment to continually improving the quality of our programs.

An enriching student experience

Our flexible delivery and extra-curricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred way of learning and career interests. You can benefit from online and on-campus study, part-time or full-time learning, Summer and Winter School intensive courses, mentoring and networking opportunities with industry, and accelerated learning pathways. Plus, you can make the most of professional development courses endorsed by industry, build leadership skills employers value through UniSA+ and seek support at our on-campus Business Student Hub.

Real-world connections

In addition to learning from teachers with professional experience as part of your studies, we also offer opportunities for you to connect with industry outside the classroom. There are a range of engagement opportunities available to you, including:

Build your networks and career options by participating in the Business Career Mentor Program, which pairs you with an experienced business professional
Undertake a Business Internship or complete an industry project, and apply the skills and knowledge gained from your studies in a real workplace setting
Become a global citizen through our international exchange programs– we have more than 80 partner institutions worldwide, and study options that range from two weeks to one year
Meet one-to-one with a senior business executive through our Executive in Residence program. You’ll receive expert guidance and gain workplace insights that will support your career development.

We host regular University-wide careers events and workshops, expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

This could be you

At UniSA, you'll learn invaluable transferable employability skills to future-proof your career.

Career outcomes

Your career

As the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers in Business and Management¹, our quality teaching and experiences beyond the classroom will ensure you graduate career-ready.

You could consider careers such as:

Business adviser: working with new or established businesses; analysing business plans and financial statements; advising on investments, marketing, funding and financial trends; understanding consumer needs and how to improve profitability.
Business development manager: driving the work of teams to run an organisation efficiently; coordinating several business units, managing resourcing, budgets and operations.
Economist: using data and modelling techniques to provide specialist advice to consumers, business and governments on particular economic, business and policy-related issues; analysing data for interpreting and forecasting consumer business trends; using economic information to inform business decision-making within a global business environment.
Investment adviser/Financial risk analyst: providing advice within organisations on investment decisions and strategies; identifying and assessing potential financial risks at the organisational and industry sector level.
Market research analyst: collecting and analysing data for clients on market conditions, consumer behaviour and business competitors; using data analysis for business forecasting and interpreting consumer trends and informing on alternative business strategies.
Policy adviser: analysing policies and their effects to provide advice and guidance to governments and organisations; offering strategic policy and planning advice on programs and operations; reviewing, developing, and implementing policies and strategies.
Policy analyst: analysing a range of economic and social issues and formulating and evaluating policies in addressing these issues; analysing on behalf of business or government proposed policy interventions and its potential impact at the individual, business and societal level.
Trade and investment adviser: providing technical assistance to Trade and Investment institutions to increase their exports and local and foreign investments.

¹ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23– Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities

Industry facts

Between now and 2024 employment in Australia for financial brokers and dealers, and investment advisers is projected to increase by 6,900 (6.9 per cent)¹.

¹Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2019

There are 202,372 businesses in financial services, representing the economy's fastest growing industry¹.

¹Australian Bureau of Statistics, Counts of Australian Businesses 2017-2018.

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

UniSA College Diploma in Business
UniSA College Foundation Studies
SAIBT Diploma of Business - if you complete this two year Diploma, you can apply to enter the 2nd year of this degree
see the full list of entry pathways that may apply

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

SAIBT Diploma of Business - if you complete this two year Diploma, you can apply to enter the 2nd year of this degree
see the full list of entry pathways that may apply

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

career advice and mentoring
help with student visas and health cover
personal counselling
academic counselling
fees and finance help
common rooms
prayer rooms
security officers
accommodation services
as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your program director

I am a Senior lecturer in Economics and Financial Planning, and my research focus is on international economics in the context of capital flows and their implications on economic growth. I am passionate about teaching and I lecture a broad range of courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Graduates of this program will have a deep understanding of the public policies, economic exchanges, and global trade activities that affect businesses today. The additional Master of Finance qualification will only broaden graduate job prospects and careers opportunities for graduates, equipping graduates for careers in Economics and Finance.

Dr Vandana Arya

Program Director

Enquire

Dr Vandana Arya

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How do I apply?

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
Is there a closing date for applications?

There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.