Queensland's economy is diverse, with major roles for resources, agriculture, tourism, health, education, construction and government. Brisbane is the state's corporate centre, and its universities attract MBA students from across the state and beyond. Queensland also has a strong tradition of distance education, which makes it a good place to look for flexible online programs.
The universities named here are a starting point, not a complete list or a ranking. Programs change, so check each university's website.
Brisbane's business schools
The University of Queensland
UQ Business School is based at UQ's St Lucia campus, with some programs taught in the city. It has offered full-time and part-time MBA formats, including options designed for working professionals.
Queensland University of Technology
QUT's business school is based at Gardens Point, beside the City Botanic Gardens in the CBD. QUT has offered MBA programs aimed at professionals, including through its Graduate School of Business.
Griffith University
Griffith Business School teaches in Brisbane (including South Bank and Nathan) and on the Gold Coast. Griffith has offered its MBA on campus and online.
Beyond Brisbane
Online and regional universities
- University of Southern Queensland has a long history of distance education and has offered MBA programs online with several specialisations.
- Central Queensland University teaches across regional Queensland and online.
- James Cook University, based in Townsville and Cairns, offers postgraduate business study.
- University of the Sunshine Coast offers business programs on the Sunshine Coast and online.
These programs can suit students across Queensland and interstate who need flexibility.
Choosing between them
Format. Check what is on offer now: full-time, part-time, online or blended. Not every school runs every format each year.
Location. Brisbane spreads along the river, and campuses are some distance apart. For part-time study, a convenient commute is valuable.
Specialisations. Queensland programs have offered streams in areas such as project management, finance, human resources, sustainability and digital transformation. Check which specialisations appear on your award.
Cost. Compare total fees and check for annual increases.
Network. If you plan to stay in Queensland, ask about local alumni activity and industry links.
International students
International students need a CRICOS-registered course and a Student visa (subclass 500). Brisbane has a large international student community. Research rents near your campus and on good transport routes, and check the Home Affairs financial requirements.
Living in Brisbane
Brisbane has a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild winters. The CityCat ferries, trains and buses connect most campuses. Many students choose to live near their campus or near a train line to keep commuting time down.
Tips
- Compare city programs with online options from regional universities.
- Ask about intensives and whether they are held in Brisbane.
- Check whether you can switch between online and on-campus study.
- Talk to recent graduates from each program.
Queensland MBA checklist
0 of 6 done
Ticks are saved in this browser only.
Questions to ask Queensland schools
- Which formats will run for my intake, and on which campus?
- Are online and on-campus students taught by the same academics?
- Do intensives take place in Brisbane, on the Gold Coast or elsewhere?
- What is the typical experience level and industry mix of the cohort?
- What is the total course fee for my study load, and how much has it risen?
- Is the course approved for FEE-HELP, and what are the census dates?
- How active is the alumni network in my industry in Queensland?
Regional students
If you live in regional Queensland, think about how much time you can spend travelling to Brisbane. A fully online program from a university with a long distance-education history may be more practical than a city program that requires regular attendance. Some programs include occasional on-campus residentials, which can be a good balance between flexibility and networking. Check the dates of any residentials before you enrol, and budget for travel and accommodation.
Industry focus
Queensland's major industries, including resources and energy, agriculture, tourism, construction, health and government, shape many MBA cohorts. If you work in one of these sectors, ask schools about electives, case studies and guest speakers relevant to your industry, and whether you can base major projects on your own organisation.
Format finder
Which MBA format suits you?
Answer all four questions to see your best-fit formats.
Frequently asked questions
Can I study an MBA part-time in Brisbane while working?
Yes. Brisbane universities have offered part-time, evening, blended and online formats designed for working professionals. Check which formats run for your intake and whether any classes are held in the CBD.
Do Queensland universities offer MBA specialisations?
Many do, in areas such as project management, finance, human resources, sustainability and digital transformation. Check which specialisations are currently offered and whether they appear on your award.
Which universities offer an MBA in Brisbane?
Options include the University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology and Griffith University. Check each university for current programs.
Are there online MBAs based in Queensland?
Yes. Universities including the University of Southern Queensland, Central Queensland University, James Cook University and the University of the Sunshine Coast offer business postgraduate study online. Check current programs.
Is Brisbane cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne?
It is often described as more affordable, but rents in Brisbane have risen. Compare current rents near your campus.
Can I study on the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast?
Griffith University has a Gold Coast campus, and the University of the Sunshine Coast is based on the Sunshine Coast. Check which programs are taught on each campus.
Sources and further reading
Facts on this page were checked against these primary and official sources. Conditions change — confirm before you travel or buy.
- UQ Business School — The University of Queensland
- QUT Business School — Queensland University of Technology
- Griffith Business School — Griffith University
- National Register of higher education providers — TEQSA
- Study Australia – Cost of living — Australian Government
