The Master of Business (MBus) is designed for aspiring leaders seeking to advance their careers. Offered by the Otago Business School, this program equips you with practical skills and real-world experience to address business challenges. You will be taught by experienced academics with strong industry connections, providing opportunities for internships and networking. The MBus offers flexibility with three study paths: coursework only, a project option, or a dissertation option for those considering doctoral studies. You can tailor your specialization to align with your career aspirations. The coursework and project options are ideal for professional advancement, while the dissertation path prepares you for academic research at a higher level.
Meeting admission criteria through NCEA, Cambridge International, or International Baccalaureate taken in New Zealand fulfills the standard literacy requirements. For Cambridge International or IB taken outside New Zealand, approved alternatives can be used. English proficiency test results are valid for two years, extendable to five years with evidence of continued English immersion.
Tuition fees are estimates and may vary based on paper selection. They exclude living expenses and additional costs. A compulsory Student Services Fee also applies. Australian citizens and permanent residents studying in New Zealand pay domestic fees; those studying remotely from outside New Zealand pay international fees.
International student tuition fees for the Master of Business are estimated between NZ $64,785 and NZ $68,145 per year for 2027. These estimates exclude living expenses and other costs.
International applicants typically need an IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0, or a TOEFL iBT overall score of 90 with a writing score of 21 (for tests taken before January 21, 2026). Other tests like C1 Advanced and PTE Academic are also accepted.
To be considered for the Master of Business, you need a Bachelor's degree with a minimum grade of B, or a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma in Business with a minimum grade of B. Specific degree focuses are required for certain specializations.
The Master of Business program requires at least 180 points, achievable through coursework, a project option, or a dissertation option. The duration will depend on the chosen path and course load.
The University of Otago offers scholarships such as the Māori Entrance Scholarship and Māori Master's Scholarship, though their amounts are not specified. Applicants are advised to search the university's scholarship database for details.