Sydney is Australia's largest city and its main corporate and financial centre. Many national and regional headquarters are based there, which makes it a natural place to study business. It also has the widest choice of MBA programs in the country, from intensive full-time courses to online and executive programs.
The schools named here are a starting point, not a complete list or a ranking. Programs, names and structures change, so check each university's website.
The business schools
AGSM at UNSW Business School
UNSW Sydney's MBA programs are delivered through AGSM, the Australian Graduate School of Management, which has a long history in Australian business education. AGSM has offered full-time, part-time, online and executive formats. Its main campus is at Kensington, with CBD facilities used for some programs.
The University of Sydney Business School
The University of Sydney's business school, based at Camperdown/Darlington, has offered an MBA designed for experienced professionals. Check the current structure and study modes on the university's website.
UTS Business School
The University of Technology Sydney is based in Ultimo, on the edge of the CBD. Its business school offers MBA programs with options aimed at working professionals.
Macquarie Business School
Macquarie University's business school, based at Macquarie Park in Sydney's north, has long offered MBA programs, including through the Macquarie Graduate School of Management. Check current formats and locations.
Other options
Western Sydney University, with campuses including Parramatta, and Australian Catholic University, with a campus in North Sydney, also offer MBA programs. Many universities based in other states teach online to Sydney students too.
Choosing between them
Format. Check which formats each school offers now. Not every school has a full-time intake, and some programs are mainly online or blended.
Location. Sydney is spread out. A suburban campus may be convenient if you live nearby but a long trip from the other side of the city. For part-time study, a short commute makes a big difference over several years.
Class profile. Ask each school about the experience and industries of its MBA students. Some cohorts lean towards finance and consulting, others towards health, government or technology.
Cost. Compare total course fees and check for annual increases. Sydney programs vary widely in price.
Network. If you plan to stay in Sydney, the strength of the local alumni network matters.
Studying in Sydney as an international student
International students need a CRICOS-registered course and a Student visa (subclass 500). Sydney is one of the more expensive Australian cities to live in, mainly because of rent. The Australian Government's Study Australia site has guidance on living costs, and Home Affairs sets the financial capacity requirement for the visa.
Consider where you will live in relation to your campus and whether you can get by on public transport. Sydney's train, bus, metro, light rail and ferry network covers most campuses.
Working while you study
Domestic part-time students typically keep working full-time. International students have work limits as a condition of their Student visa. Check the current conditions on the Home Affairs website before you rely on work income.
Make the most of Sydney
- Attend information evenings at several schools before applying.
- Join events run by professional bodies and industry groups in your field.
- Use the careers services and alumni events from the start of your program, not just at the end.
Sydney MBA checklist
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Questions to ask Sydney schools
- Which formats run for my intake, and on which campus?
- What is the typical experience level and industry mix of the cohort?
- Who teaches the core units, and how large are classes?
- What is the total course fee for my study load?
- Is the course approved for FEE-HELP, and what are the census dates?
- How active is the alumni network in Sydney and in my industry?
Industries and networks
Sydney's economy is led by financial and professional services, technology, media, health, tourism and government. Many national and regional headquarters are in the CBD and North Sydney. If you want to move into one of these industries, ask schools about employer partnerships, consulting projects and alumni in the field.
Format finder
Which MBA format suits you?
Answer all four questions to see your best-fit formats.
Frequently asked questions
Do Sydney MBAs require the GMAT?
Some do and many do not. Requirements vary by school and format, and some programs waive tests for experienced applicants. Check each program's entry requirements.
Which universities offer an MBA in Sydney?
Universities with MBA programs in Sydney include UNSW Sydney (through AGSM at UNSW Business School), the University of Sydney, the University of Technology Sydney, Macquarie University, Western Sydney University and Australian Catholic University. Check each university for current programs.
Is Sydney expensive for international MBA students?
Sydney is generally one of Australia's more expensive cities, especially for rent. International students should budget carefully and check the Department of Home Affairs financial requirements for the Student visa.
Can I study part-time in Sydney while working?
Yes. Several Sydney schools offer evening, weekend and blended part-time programs, and most also offer online options.
Where are the campuses?
Locations vary. Some schools teach in the CBD, others on suburban campuses such as Kensington, Camperdown, Ultimo, Macquarie Park and Parramatta. Check where your classes will actually be held.
Sources and further reading
Facts on this page were checked against these primary and official sources. Conditions change — confirm before you travel or buy.
- National Register of higher education providers — TEQSA
- AGSM at UNSW Business School — UNSW Sydney
- The University of Sydney Business School — The University of Sydney
- UTS Business School — University of Technology Sydney
- Macquarie Business School — Macquarie University
- Study Australia – Cost of living — Australian Government
