Course overview
Study Deakin’s Bachelor of Commerce and earn a well-recognised qualification that is a pathway into the professions. You will receive an education that is relevant to industry via commerce majors accredited to each discipline’s top industry bodies. Plus, you will get a taste of professional life along with an understanding of what it takes to be job-ready through our work-integrated learning and experiential learning programs.
The ‘B Com’ is a traditional degree, designed to help you find a professional fit through practical and contemporary teaching methods.
How can Deakin's Bachelor of Commerce set you up for a successful global career?
You will graduate with three pillars of professional skills sought after by employers: financial acumen, market knowledge and management smarts. Academically, you will acquire deep knowledge, applied skills and peer networks. Professionally, you will nurture industry connections while learning to deal with change, turbulence and renewal.
From day one of your degree, you will participate in development opportunities using industry-standard tools. At the same time, you will build commercial skills in your specialised area that allow for entry into a ‘vertical’ discipline that forms a profession in commerce. Major study areas include:
- accounting
- economics
- finance
- financial planning
- human resource management
- management
- management information systems
- marketing
To increase your scope, you may wish to complement your major with up to two minors. This improves the ‘package’ that you can present to potential employers. You can choose minors from:
- accounting
- business analytics
- economics
- entrepreneurship
- emerging technology
- event management
- finance
- global and social impact studies
- human resource management
- international trade
- international business
- marketing
- people management
- production management.
- project management
- property investments
- recruitment and talent acquisition
- retail management
- sustainability and development
- wealth management.
You will have opportunities to interact with your peers, society and industry bodies through Deakin Business School’s work-integrated learning (WIL) program, gaining work experience that counts towards your degree. This experience rounds out your university tenure to help kickstart your career.
Read MoreKey dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 3 2024 are closed.
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2025 close 16 February 2025
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Year
2025 course information
- VTAC code
1400411331 - Regional Access Scheme - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400414511 - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400514511 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400614511 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- M300
- CRICOS code?
- 001838A Burwood (Melbourne), Waterfront (Geelong), Warrnambool
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Commerce students must attain 24 credit points. The 24 credit points include 8 credit points of core units, 8 credit points of units from a major (you will be required to complete at least one major), plus 1 credit point WIL unit and 7 credit points of elective units plus completion of the compulsory 0-credit point module, DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin. Most units (think of units as 'subjects') are equal to 1 credit point. Most students choose to study 4 units per trimester, and usually undertake 2 trimesters each year.
To complete the course you must include the following:
- at least 16 credit points from Business and Law undergraduate units
- 8 credit points of core Bachelor of Commerce units
- completion of DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit point compulsory module)
- at least one 8 credit point Bachelor of Commerce major
- plus a 1 credit point WIL unit (Course elective)
- Level 1 - no more than 10 credit points
- Level 3 - at least 6 credit points (at least 4 must be Business and Law undergraduate units)
8
Core units
8
Major units
8
Elective units
24
Total units
Compulsory 0-credit point module
To be completed in the first trimester of study:-
Core units
Course elective units
Students must complete a 1 credit point Work Integrated Learning unit.
Recommended business WIL units:
or
another WIL unit available in the University subject to meeting unit pre-requisites.
Open elective units
Students may choose up to 7 credit points of open electives. These may constitute a second commerce major, or a major available in another Faculty (provided any pre-requisites can be met), up to two minor sequences (as above) or a combination of units (again pre-requisites allowing) chosen by the student.
These may include additional Work Integrated Learning (WIL) units offered by the Faculty or University subject to meeting pre-requisites.
Major sequences
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
*Please note: Geelong (Waterfront) and Warrnambool students - some majors require students to undertake Online units.
All students in the Bachelor of Commerce are required to complete at least one major sequence chosen from the following:
- Accounting^
- Economics
- Finance
- Financial Planning^
- Human Resource Management
- Management
- Management Information Systems
- Marketing
^ M300 Bachelor of Commerce is the recommended pathway to qualify for membership of professional organisations.
Minor sequences
*Please note: Geelong (Waterfront) and Warrnambool students - some minors require students to undertake Online units.
Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.
All students in the Bachelor of Commerce have the option to complete up to two minor sequences chosen from the following:
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waterfront (Geelong)
- Online
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waterfront (Geelong)
- Online
Trimester 3 - November
- Start date: November
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waterfront (Geelong)~
- Online
~ Students commencing at the Waterfront (Geelong) will be required to enrol in units offered in online mode in Trimester 3.
* Not all major sequences are available via Campus study at Waterfront. Students undertaking units in major sequences that are not available in Campus mode may enrol in units offered in online mode.
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Unit selection
Students admitted to the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) will be given advice on unit selection, however students must take responsibility for planning their own studies to satisfy course rules.
Part-time studies
Part-time study is available via Campus and online mode. Part-time study refers to academic workload, not mode of study.
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.
Mandatory student checks
Units which contain work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, working with children check or other check. These requirements will be detailed in unit guides upon enrolment.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, online interactions, or professional experiences for Work Integrated Learning (WIL) units. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
Units in this course may have participation requirements that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
This course provides students the opportunity to complete one or more work integrated learning units.
Explore Business and Law WIL opportunities.
International Students:
This course includes Work Integrated Learning (WIL) formally registered as part of the course on the CRICOS register. The total work integrated learning hours will differ depending on the WIL unit you choose. For more information about WIL hours, please check the unit information in the handbook or the unit guide.
For information about how WIL units may impact student visa holder work rights, please visit Home Affairs. See 8105 Work limitation.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
Current or recent secondary education
If you're currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
Higher education
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you’ll need to meet the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two credit points in an equivalent (AQF Level 7) bachelor degree.
Vocational education
If you have undertaken any vocational education and training (VET) study after secondary school, you'll need to meet one or more of the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and haven’t undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a cover letter outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
English language proficiency requirements
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in any Business, English other than EAL, any Information Technology or Maths: Further Mathematics equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Admissions information
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2024 students (PDF, 793KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose, as each unit has its own cost. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year. You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options on our Current students fees website.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2025 are open. We've helped over 300,000 Deakin graduates across Australia and throughout the world apply with confidence. In Year 12? Follow these how to apply steps. Completed secondary education in or prior to 2021? Follow these how to apply steps.
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
You can apply for this course through the Deakin Regional Access Scheme, which is offered to current Year 12 students looking to study at our regional campuses. We want to know all about the skills, experience and achievements that make you unique and prepare you for university study.
To apply, complete the online application form and preference your chosen course in your VTAC application, using the Deakin Regional Access Scheme VTAC code.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Commerce with our pathways finder.
Expand your career options and create pathways into further study.
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
- Call us: 1800 693 888 Monday – Friday, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Monday - Friday
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
Deakin graduates are in demand because they are flexible, proactive, highly engaged, and trained in commercial thinking. As a commerce graduate, you will have the opportunity to enter a professional vertical career that reflects your choice of industry-accredited discipline. These verticals operate in each industry and across government and non-governmental bodies and allow scope and paths for career progression and promotion.
Most importantly, commerce studies equip you with the skills and qualifications that are in demand across all industries. This means your degree will enable you to gain employment within a range of different sectors.
Professional entry level roles for Deakin commerce graduates include:
- accountant
- business analytics professional
- economist
- financial planner
- human resource manager
- international trade officer
- marketing manager
- social and economic policy developer.
Professional recognition
Deakin Business School holds the prestigious and globally recognised AACSB and EQUIS accreditations, which attest to quality, academic and professional excellence, ongoing improvement, innovation and graduate employability.
Deakin’s accounting major enables students to apply for the:
- CA Program of the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ)
- Associate membership for the CPA Program
- IPA Program of the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA)
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
The marketing major provides a one-year credit towards the Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) five-year Certified Practicing Marketer and Chartered Marketer certification.
Students who complete the finance major are recognised through the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program.
The financial planning major satisfies the Financial Adviser Standards (FAS) education standards, meaning students can provide financial advice in Australia and are eligible for financial planning certification programs including:
- the Financial Adviser Association of Australia (FAAA) CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®.
The human resource management major enables students to apply for the Australian HR Institute (AHRI) membership.
Students should consult the professional body or a course adviser to identify additional requirements for membership.
Course learning outcomes
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Apply a broad and coherent theoretical and technical knowledge of commerce and its applications |
| Communication | Communicate commerce concepts and information effectively including in oral, written and visual forms in a cohesive and understandable manner to academic audiences, business professionals and laypersons |
| Digital Literacy | Use technologies to identify, locate, evaluate, synthesise and disseminate and communicate information in the field of commerce |
| Critical thinking | Evaluate and critically analyse academic, professional and business information and values |
| Problem Solving | Identify solutions to a diverse range of authentic problems in commerce |
| Self-management | Take personal responsibility for actions, self-reflect and critique own performance and identify and plan future professional development |
| Teamwork | Interact and collaborate with others from a range of disciplines and backgrounds |
| Global Citizenship | Engage effectively in different environments and contexts reflecting social, sustainable, ethical, economic, and global perspectives in the field of commerce |
Discover the difference between business and commerce
Thinking of pursuing a career in business but unsure which of our degrees is right for you? We offer both a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Business to allow you to align your studies to your career goals.
I learnt so much about the corporate world and studying overseas was single handedly the most amazing, educating and broadening experience of my life.
Taylar Farquhar
Bachelor of Commerce
Footnotes
**Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018
+ Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our list of media references.