Associate Degree of Business (Exit award) (CRICOS course code 115096J) is a Associate Degree delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 2 years. This AQF Level 6 qualification is designed for students who want to build foundational business skills and may serve as an exit point from a bachelor’s degree. The course falls under the field of Management and Commerce (0803), specifically Business Management (080301), and prepares graduates for roles in management, marketing, human resources, and finance. Southern Cross University is a public university with campuses across Australia, offering this course in five locations: Gold Coast Airport Development Park (Bilinga, QLD), Lismore (East Lismore, NSW), SCU Perth (Perth, WA), The Hotel School Melbourne (Melbourne, VIC), and The Hotel School Sydney (Sydney, NSW). As a CRICOS-registered provider (01241G), SCU meets strict Australian Government standards for international education. This page provides key details on fees, entry requirements, and student visa information to help you make an informed decision about studying this course in Australia.
The Associate Degree of Business (Exit award) covers the core areas of business management, including principles of accounting, marketing, organisational behaviour, business law, and strategic planning. As a broad-based qualification at AQF Level 6, it equips students with analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills needed to work in diverse business environments. Graduates may pursue careers in management, small business operations, or continue into a bachelor’s degree with credit. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a detailed syllabus, the course content typically includes introductory and intermediate units in business disciplines. Students also develop practical skills in decision-making, project management, and teamwork. The field of education (0803 - Management and Commerce) is one of the most popular among international students in Australia, with over 4,000 CRICOS-registered courses available nationwide. Studying at Southern Cross University gives you access to industry-connected academics and modern learning facilities. For specific unit outlines, always refer to the provider's website.
According to the CRICOS register, the Associate Degree of Business (Exit award) has a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual award). This course does not include a foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes on campus at one of SCU's delivery locations. The standard study load is 40 weeks per year, with breaks aligning with academic semesters. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your student visa conditions. Contact Southern Cross University for information about part-time options or academic calendars.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$52,000, with non-tuition fees of A$4,000, bringing the estimated total to A$56,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for additional expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance. For the most current fees, always check Southern Cross University’s official website at www.scu.edu.au. SCU offers a range of scholarships for international students; inquire directly about eligibility. Remember, all listed fees are indicative only and set by the institution.
Entry requirements for the Associate Degree of Business (Exit award) are determined by Southern Cross University. Typically, international students need to have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12 with satisfactory results. English language proficiency is required; while requirements vary by provider and course level, a common range is IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent). For this course, a score around 6.0 may be expected. Some students may be eligible for foundation or pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry criteria. Always confirm specific academic and English requirements with the institution or a registered education agent. HeadStart Academy does not set these requirements; we recommend contacting SCU directly.
No work component 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 study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain valuable work experience and supplement your living costs. Remember that work rights are tied to your visa conditions, and you must not compromise your studies for employment.
Southern Cross University delivers the Associate Degree of Business (Exit award) at five campuses across Australia: - Gold Coast Airport Development Park - Bilinga, QLD - Lismore (East Lismore, NSW) - SCU Perth (Perth, WA) - The Hotel School Melbourne (Melbourne, VIC) - The Hotel School Sydney (Sydney, NSW)
Each location offers a unique study environment. The Gold Coast is known for its lifestyle and tourism industry, with many CRICOS-registered providers. Lismore is a regional city in Northern NSW with lower living costs. Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney are major cities with diverse student populations and strong job markets. When choosing a location, consider factors like climate, cost of living, and access to public transport. For example, Melbourne and Sydney have extensive public transport networks, while Perth offers a more relaxed pace. Living costs vary: weekly rent for a shared apartment typically ranges from A$200 in Lismore to A$400 in Sydney. Always research and budget accordingly.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion: demonstrate your intention to stay temporarily for study. - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): must be maintained for the entire visa duration. - Financial capacity: prove you can cover tuition, living costs, and dependents’ expenses. - English proficiency: meet the provider’s requirements.
While on a Student visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions may change, so always check the Department of Home Affairs website. Consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) is recommended for personalised advice. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are from CRICOS-registered providers, ensuring compliance with ESOS Act protections.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Associate Degree of Business (Exit award) at Southern Cross University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses like this one. Filter by AQF level, field (Management and Commerce), and location. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (SCU: 01241G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check Southern Cross University’s entry requirements, including academic qualifications and English language tests (e.g., IELTS). Prepare your documents and submit an application through SCU’s online portal. Meet application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, SCU will issue a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. After approval, you can make travel arrangements to Australia.
Ready to start your business journey? Explore more courses or contact Southern Cross University for application details.
Associate Degree of Business (Exit award) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.