Associate Degree of Business (CRICOS course code 096902A) is a Associate Degree delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 2 years. This AQF Level 6 qualification provides a solid foundation in business management, covering areas such as marketing, accounting, human resources, and operations. Melbourne Polytechnic, a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00724G), has a strong reputation for vocational and higher education. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, choosing a registered institution like Melbourne Polytechnic ensures your qualification is recognized and protected under the ESOS Act. This page gives you detailed, up-to-date information on fees, entry requirements, study locations, and student visa conditions to help you make an informed decision.
The Associate Degree of Business is an undergraduate qualification equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor's degree. It is designed to equip students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge for entry-level management roles or further study. The course is full-time over 2 years (104 weeks) and taught in English. As a CRICOS-registered course (096902A), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Melbourne Polytechnic delivers this program at its Preston Campus, a well-connected location in Melbourne's northern suburbs.
This course falls under the field of Business Management (080301). Students typically study core business disciplines such as financial management, strategic planning, organisational behaviour, marketing principles, and business communication. Graduates develop skills in analysis, decision-making, and team leadership, preparing them for roles like assistant manager, business analyst, or entrepreneur. The curriculum is designed to be practical, with case studies and projects reflecting real-world business challenges. Note: this is a general description—specific subjects are set by Melbourne Polytechnic.
The course runs for 2 years (104 weeks) on a full-time basis. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual degree) and is not a VET course (no VET national code). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Melbourne Polytechnic offers face-to-face classes at its Preston Campus, with some online components possible. Check with the provider for current delivery modes.
Indicative tuition fee: A$45,120 for the full course (2 years). Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total: A$45,120. Important: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or visa application charges. OSHC for a single student is approximately A$600 per year (A$1,200 total). Living costs in Melbourne are around A$30,000 per year (including rent, food, transport). The student visa application fee is currently A$1,600. Fees are set by Melbourne Polytechnic and subject to change—always confirm on the provider's website at www.melbournepolytechnic.edu.au.
English language requirements: Typically IELTS 6.0 overall (with no band below 5.5) or equivalent. Some providers may require higher scores for direct entry. Academic requirements: Completion of Australian Year 12 (or equivalent overseas qualification). For students who do not meet academic entry standards, Melbourne Polytechnic may offer foundation or pathway programs. Contact the provider for specific details on alternative entry options. Always verify requirements directly with Melbourne Polytechnic.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Work must not interfere with study commitments. The ESOS Act ensures your rights as an international student, including protections related to work and study balance.
This course is delivered at Melbourne Polytechnic's Preston Campus, located at 77-91 St Georges Rd, Preston, VIC 3072. Preston is a vibrant suburb about 11 km north of Melbourne's CBD, with excellent public transport (train and tram) connecting to the city. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate, with average rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$400-500 per week, groceries A$80-100 per week, and a public transport pass A$200 per month.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Conditions include: maintaining full-time enrolment, satisfactory course progress, OSHC for the entire stay, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Students can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays. You must show sufficient funds: tuition plus living costs (at least A$21,041 per year for a single student) plus travel. OSHC is mandatory—ensure you have cover that meets visa requirements. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to begin your studies:
Use HeadStart Academy's course search to find CRICOS-registered providers like Melbourne Polytechnic. Filter by course level (Associate Degree), field (Business Management), and location (Victoria) to find suitable options. All listed providers are government-registered, ensuring quality and ESOS Act protection.
Submit your application directly to Melbourne Polytechnic. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and entry requirements on the provider's website. Melbourne Polytechnic may also offer conditional offers if you are completing your current qualification.
Once accepted, Melbourne Polytechnic will issue a CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. You'll need to provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Visa processing times vary—apply early. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA agent for visa assistance.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Melbourne Polytechnic's Associate Degree of Business and start your application today.
Associate Degree of Business is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne Polytechnic. 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.