University of Southern Queensland
Graduate Diploma of Business (Business Foundations)
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
- Course Type: Graduate Diploma
Develop the ability to design solutions to dynamic issues and evaluate available digital technologies in collaborative teams.
Course overview
If you don’t have a bachelor's qualification in the business area, and want to go on to study the Master of Business, the Business Foundation specialisation can be an ideal start for you. Combine your studies in Business Foundations with elective business courses to tailor your unique career path.
Your studies covers foundational knowledge in adaptive leadership, talent strategy, customer experience and managerial economics.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
14th September, 2026
What you will study
This program is comprised of eight units of postgraduate courses as follows:
- Two core courses
- Two elective courses from the program
- Four courses from the Business Foundation specialisation
Complete the following:
- Harnessing Human Capabilities for the Future of Work
- The Ready Business Professional
Entry requirements
To be considered for admission into this course, you will need to have one of the following qualifications:
- Completion of an Australian university bachelor's degree in any area, or equivalent.
- A minimum of three years’ professional work experience, or equivalent.
Tafe (VET) qualification
If you have completed a qualification from a TAFE or qualified private provider, you may be able to use these qualifications to meet UniSQ's entry requirements.
Work and life experience
You may be able to use your work experience and other adjustment factors to increase your selection rank and meet UniSQ's entry requirements.
English language requirements
You are required to meet the applicable English language requirements and this degree requires a minimum of IELTS 6.5 with a minimum 6.0 in each subscore. UniSQ also accepts other English language proficiency tests.
If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can apply to study the English for Academic Purposes EAP3 pathway program through the Union Institute of Language (UIL).
Recognition of Prior Learning
You may be eligible for recognition of prior learning if you have previously studied or have relevant work experience. This will help to reduce the number of courses that you need to study to finish your program. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concepts and essential theories and skills associated with a discipline area or areas related to business
- Demonstrate cognitive skills to review, analyse, consolidate and synthesise business knowledge and identify and provide solutions to complex problems
- Evaluate and communicate theoretical concepts to transfer business knowledge and ideas to a variety of audiences
- Demonstrate advanced business knowledge and skills for professional work and/or further learning.
- Cultivate a professional identity and career trajectory by exhibiting the human capabilities and knowledge demanded by modern organisations.
Fees and CSP
Estimated annual fee in 2026: $17,392 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
The estimated 2026 annual fee is based on the current average rate for your first year of study (eight units per year) and does not include the cost of materials such as textbooks, additional costs or the Student Services and Amenities fee.
This is an indicative guide only. Your fees will vary depending on the courses you select, with the actual rates calculated at enrolment. The University of Southern Queensland review its fees annually. They may increase each year.
HECS-HELP
You may not have to pay your course (subject) fees upfront. HECS-HELP is a government loan scheme that allows you to defer payment until your income reaches a certain threshold.