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Geographical constraints should never hinder the pursuit of knowledge and career advancement — a fact the University of Auckland Business School understands best. In a bold move reflecting its commitment to innovation and accessibility, New Zealand’s highest-ranked institution is moving its triple crown accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA) online — the very same programme that has helped pilots pivot into sustainability management, empowered aspiring investors to enhance and expand humble grocery stores, and has even inspired members of staff to channel their inner entrepreneur.
“Most of us [who did the programme] did end up with promotions, career progression and transition,” confirms graduate Vandana Minhas-Taneja, who is currently the University’s Director of Faculty Operations (Arts) and the co-founder of Learn English Live.
From July 2024, barriers will be dismantled to ensure individuals from diverse backgrounds and locations can benefit from the same world-class instruction and career-enhancing resources as the MBA graduates before them. With a legacy spanning four decades, the programme boasts a vibrant community of thousands of engaged alumni.
MBA Director Mike Lee believes moving the programme online will expand students’ networking opportunities tremendously. Source: University of Auckland
“We sent a survey through our MBA Alumni Association, asking graduates what they thought the programme needed more of and what elements they could have gone without,” explains MBA Director Mike Lee. “Their feedback was taken into account throughout the entire process, and now we have many new and re-designed courses that will be rolled out for the very first time this year.”
Crafted in collaboration with external market research and the University’s advisory board, too, the new curriculum represents a forward-thinking approach to business education. At the forefront is the Te ao Māori Business course, a first-of-its-kind offering among triple crown accredited universities. It will provide an indigenous perspective on business, uniquely tailored to New Zealand’s cultural context. Beyond its local relevance, it equips graduates with the empathy to navigate the multicultural business environments prevalent worldwide, including emerging indigenous economies.
Another notable addition is a course on New Zealand’s political and legal landscape. Alumni feedback inspired the university to expand this topic into a mandatory, standalone course. Taught by seasoned commercial lawyers, it covers legal nuances relevant to business operations, negotiations and conflict resolution.
Meanwhile, the brand new Global Success: Scaling Up course was designed to address a common challenge faced by New Zealand and Australia. While both countries excel in startup culture, scaling up to multinational success remains elusive. This unique course blends international business principles with entrepreneurial thinking, emphasising the importance of global expansion for sustainable growth.
Students can even take matters into their own hands by assisting New Zealand businesses in their global endeavours through the Capstone Consultancy Project. The opportunity sees learners collaborating in teams to support local startups in their international expansion efforts, culminating in a one-week overseas study tour that has previously transported MBA students to South Korea and Singapore.
“Japan is next,” shares Lee. “It’s a great way to finish the whole cohort experience with people you’ve been studying alongside for the last 18 months.”
An online MBA is a great choice for thriving professionals looking to develop career-accelerating skills without having to set aside their existing responsibilities. Source: University of Auckland
However, this isn’t the only chance 2024 MBA students will get for face-to-face interaction. The university hosts a range of events, both online and in-person, throughout the year. These events, organised by the alumni association and the Business School, provide platforms for students to engage with industry leaders, alumni and, of course, their peers. Those unable to travel to campus to participate will still be able to grow their network and forge lifelong friendships — the MBA programme vows online delivery will not compromise the invaluable networking and interaction opportunities traditionally associated with in-person learning.
“In fact, networking opportunities will now expand beyond the perimeter of Auckland,” says Lee. “Our students will meet people from all over the country, from Australia and possibly even expats working across Asia. And, of course, they will always have access to a Student and Programme Advice Team dedicated to their success.”
Indeed, from admissions to graduation and beyond, the University of Auckland’s online students receive personalised assistance every step of the way. One significant advantage of the digital format is the enhanced tracking of student engagement. With all learning materials and interactions digitised, monitoring progress and participation has never been easier. This heightened accountability encourages students to engage with the material actively and meet milestones before attending lectures.
To learn more about the Business School‘s deep-seated commitment to preparing graduates for success in an increasingly uncertain business landscape, click here.
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