Future-proof your career, developing leadership qualities and global connections.
Our defence and space business programs are tailored specifically for these industries. They are designed to prepare you for global leadership in a dynamic, unpredictable and fast-evolving geopolitical climate.
While this offering is best experienced as the full 18-month MBA, with three in-country intensives, the graduate certificate provides a recognised exit point for those unable to complete the full program.
You’ll gain a strategic qualification, providing career advancement, personal development and a collaborative global network of peers and industry leaders.
This graduate certificate is part of the Global Executive Master of Business Administration (Defence and Space). A unique collaboration with international defence and space experts, this cutting-edge business suite advances your leadership capabilities and industry skills.
It is designed for public and civil servants, defence industry professionals and senior defence officers. The curriculum is tailored to the defence and space sectors, embedding the latest in defence and space management research.
Learn from internationally recognised speakers. Explore industry case studies. Undertake an intensive in-person residential in Adelaide, with specialised events and networking opportunities. Experience high quality online learning, exploring strategic finance, economics and security systems.
Build on your expertise in ethical conduct, responsible leadership and evidence-based decision-making. Gain global insights you can immediately apply to your work. Graduate with the expertise, connections and skills needed to advance decisively in your career.
Experience a leadership program like no other, drawing on a unique global model. Advance your industry skills and leadership potential. Explore sector developments, challenges and solutions. Learn from internationally recognised academics and industry speakers. Analyse case studies from world-leading defence policy institutes and thinktanks. Network alongside peers with firsthand experience. Our Graduate Certificate in Global Executive Business Administration (Defence and Space) offers online learning alongside an intensive two-week residential. Delivery of the program is cohort based, with one intake annually.
You’ll build a comprehensive body of knowledge on a range of industry-specific topics. Industry guest speakers will include star rank defence force officers, CEOs, government representatives, board members of defence primes and other prominent figures in the defence and space industries. Case studies will incorporate real-world examples in key areas, allowing you to apply your learnings to current and relevant industry practice.
Over the course of the six-month program, you’ll study the following courses online:
Each online course covers 30 hours of content, delivered via a combination of live sessions and self-directed learning. They require approximately 10-12 hours of study per week in addition to live online delivery contact hours.
You will also undertake an intensive two-week residential. This will be based in Adelaide, where you will study:
The residential spans two intensive weeks, with 30 hours of course content delivered per week. This is complemented by scheduled evening events, where you will network with industry experts. You should plan to take leave from your work during the residential, as it will require a full-time commitment.
Adelaide University takes an innovative approach to career development and life planning, incorporating curiosity, reframing and prototyping to find solutions. We’ll help you explore your interests, values and skills, guiding you in the creation of a life and career that aligns with your goals.
This six-month program is part of a nested suite. It provides foundational knowledge and credits that are transferable towards the Graduate Diploma and Global Executive MBA in Defence and Space.
This degree is part of a stackable set of qualifications, meaning your study choices are flexible. If your goals shift, you can exit after six months of study with a standalone Graduate Certificate or after one year with a Graduate Diploma qualification.
You can also begin your studies with a shorter qualification like the six-month Graduate Certificate and continue on to complete the Graduate Diploma (one year) or full master’s degree.
Complete 24 units comprising:
Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Course name
Strategy in the Age of Digital Disruption
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Course code
BUSI5013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Enterprise Leadership & Managing Global Teams
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Course code
BUSI5060
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Strategic Finance & Economics for Defence
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Course code
BUSI5061
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cyber Security and Security Systems
|
Course code
INFO5005
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 2 | |||
 |
Course name
Cyber Security and Security Systems
|
Course code
INFO5005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Strategy in the Age of Digital Disruption
|
Course code
BUSI5013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Enterprise Leadership & Managing Global Teams
|
Course code
BUSI5060
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Strategic Finance & Economics for Defence
|
Course code
BUSI5061
|
Units
6
|
This program is tailored for professionals already working in these fields and seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities, drive innovation and exert a greater impact on their organisations.
You might oversee major projects – from satellite development to advanced defence systems. You could drive change and innovation in your organisation. Perhaps you’ll take charge of international initiatives, managing cross-cultural teams and multi-disciplinary projects.
You could also be a:
You can also continue straight into the Graduate Diploma or Global Executive MBA in Defence and Space, using your credits to fast-track your studies.
Sophisticated technological innovation, globalisation and shifting power balances are all changing the face of the defence and space industries.
Since 2003, South Australia has become a pivotal player in these sectors, with a 55% increase in defence employment. Despite being home to just 7% of Australia's population, South Australia handles 30% of the country's defence spending and is home to seven of the world's top ten defence firms. (Defence SA)
The Australian Institute of International Affairs (2024) notes a forthcoming investment of A$7 billion over the next decade in space capabilities. Adelaide is home to the Australian Space Agency and Australian Space Discovery Centre and aims to be a global leader in both these fields.
Adelaide University's defence and space business suite caters specifically to professionals in defence and space sectors, offering customised executive education to help you leverage these growing industry trends.
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
