Master of Information Technology - Master of Business Administration (CRICOS course code 053817J) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by James Cook University over 2 years. This dual qualification combines advanced IT skills with business management knowledge, preparing graduates for leadership roles in technology-driven organisations. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00117J), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. James Cook University, a public university with campuses in Cairns and Brisbane, offers this programme to develop expertise in information systems, project management, and strategic decision-making. Whether you aim to bridge IT and business or accelerate your career in tech management, this degree provides a comprehensive pathway. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you access the most reliable information. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this page focuses on one of them: the Master of Information Technology - Master of Business Administration at James Cook University.
The Master of Information Technology - Master of Business Administration (CRICOS 053817J) is an AQF Level 9 Masters Degree (Coursework) offered by James Cook University. It falls under the field of Information Systems (020300), combining core IT disciplines with business administration. Students gain a deep understanding of how technology drives organisational success, learning to manage complex IT projects, analyse data, and lead digital transformation. This dual qualification means you graduate with two masters degrees in the standard delivery time, maximising your career options. James Cook University is a government-owned institution with multiple campuses across Queensland, including its main campus in Cairns—Smithfield and its Brisbane Campus in the city centre. The course is taught entirely in English and is open to international students who meet the entry requirements. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the ESOS Act 2000 protects your rights as a student, including tuition fee protection and access to refund policies. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, with no referral fees, to help you make informed decisions.
While specific syllabus content is determined by James Cook University and may vary from year to year, this dual degree typically covers a blend of information technology and business administration subjects. In the IT component, you will explore areas such as information systems management, cybersecurity, data analytics, and software project management. The MBA component develops skills in strategic management, financial analysis, marketing, and organisational behaviour. Together, these disciplines equip you to bridge the gap between technical teams and executive leadership. Graduates often pursue roles such as IT manager, business analyst, chief information officer, or technology consultant. The course is designed for both IT professionals seeking management skills and business graduates aiming to deepen their technical understanding. Because it is a coursework masters, assessment is typically through assignments, examinations, and a capstone project. Always check with James Cook University for the most current curriculum.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Information Technology - Master of Business Administration has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). This is based on full-time study, and part-time options may be available for onshore students with appropriate visa conditions. The language of instruction is English, and the course is delivered face-to-face at James Cook University campuses. One of the key features is that it is a dual qualification: you earn both a Master of Information Technology and a Master of Business Administration upon completion. This integrated structure allows you to achieve two degrees in the same timeframe as a single masters, offering greater efficiency and career breadth. No foundation studies are required as part of this course, but applicants must meet the entry requirements. As an international student, you should plan your study schedule carefully to comply with Student Visa (Subclass 500) conditions, including maintaining full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$77,536, with no separate non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$77,536. These fees are set by James Cook University and are subject to change each academic year. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students should budget approximately A$21,041 per year for living costs as suggested by the Department of Home Affairs, plus OSHC which typically costs A$500–A$700 per year. It is essential to verify current fees directly with James Cook University before applying. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026 and presents it as a guide only. For accurate fee schedules, visit the provider's website at www.jcu.edu.au.
Entry into the Master of Information Technology - Master of Business Administration requires a completed bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification, as per standard postgraduate entry. The indicative English language requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Some applicants may need to meet additional prerequisites in IT or business, depending on their prior studies. James Cook University may also accept other English tests such as TOEFL or PTE. If you do not meet the direct entry requirements, pathway options like a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma may be available. Always refer to the provider's admissions page for the most up-to-date criteria. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and provide evidence of English proficiency as part of the Student Visa application. Note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, provided they maintain their enrolment. While the degree itself does not require work experience, you may have opportunities for internships or industry projects through James Cook University's career services. These can enhance your employability but are not compulsory. For visa conditions, always refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The Master of Information Technology - Master of Business Administration is delivered at two campuses in Queensland: James Cook University - Cairns (Smithfield) and James Cook University Brisbane Campus. Cairns is a tropical city known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, with a diverse student population and lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Weekly rent in Cairns ranges from A$150 to A$250 for shared accommodation. Brisbane, the state capital, offers a vibrant urban environment with a high concentration of universities and a large international student community. Living costs in Brisbane are slightly higher, with weekly rent averaging A$200–A$350. Both campuses are accessible by public transport, and each has its own student services. Choosing between them depends on your preference for a smaller campus in a regional setting versus a metropolitan campus. Both locations are registered on the CRICOS system, ensuring quality standards.
To study this course, you will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during holidays. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. As part of the application, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions — that you are coming to Australia primarily to study and plan to return home after your studies. Financial capacity evidence is also required, covering tuition, living costs, and travel. The visa fee is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring you receive the education you paid for and have access to refunds if the provider fails to deliver.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Information Technology - Master of Business Administration at James Cook University: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses by level, field, and location. Filter for Masters degrees in Information Technology in Queensland to find James Cook University and other options. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the James Cook University website to review specific entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application through their online portal or via an education agent. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, JCU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online, including health checks and financial evidence. For personalised advice, speak to a registered migration agent.
The Master of Information Technology - Master of Business Administration is ideal if you seek a leadership role at the intersection of technology and business. It suits IT professionals who want management skills, or business graduates who want technical depth. Consider your career goals: if you aim to become a CIO, IT project manager, or tech entrepreneur, this dual degree offers a solid foundation. However, if you prefer a specialised technical role (e.g., software engineer), a single IT masters may be more focused. Also reflect on location: Cairns offers a relaxed lifestyle and lower living costs, while Brisbane provides more networking opportunities. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, you have many choices; HeadStart Academy helps you explore all options for free.
Ready to apply? Start by exploring more CRICOS-registered courses in Information Technology or contact James Cook University directly for personalised guidance.
Master of Information Technology - Master of Business Administration is a CRICOS-registered programme at James Cook University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.