The New Degrees That Are Shaking Things Up

It’s no secret that graduates today want more than theory—they want real-world skills that translate into job-readiness. And with employers increasingly seeking candidates who can hit the ground running, universities are being challenged to rethink how they prepare students for work.

In response, a new generation of degrees is emerging—ones that combine Work Integrated Learning (WIL), flexibility, and direct industry insight. One of the standout players in this space is Ducere Global Business School, known for its innovative online business qualifications co-delivered with Torrens University Australia and University of New England.

Why WIL Is Reshaping Higher Education

Work Integrated Learning isn’t new—degrees in teaching, health, and trades have long included placements or practical hours. But demand is growing across all fields, especially business, marketing and entrepreneurship, where students increasingly expect applied learning to be baked into the curriculum.

Belinda Robinson, Chief Executive of Universities Australia, explains: “WIL programs play a practical role in giving students the skills and experience they need to match employer expectations.”

As employers continue to value experience just as much as education, WIL is becoming a must-have—especially in online learning environments.

Ducere’s Approach: Real-World Projects, Not Just Lectures

Ducere offers degrees in entrepreneurship, marketing, business management and MBA innovation and leadership, but with a distinctive difference: up to one-third of the course is project-based. That means students don’t just study—they solve real problems for real organisations.

For example, students might partner with top-tier companies like PwC, LinkedIn, NAB, Telstra, the ATO, Save the Children, or Medibank to complete hands-on business challenges. This not only builds confidence and capability but also connects learners with industry contacts before they even graduate.

The MBA with No Exams or Coursework?

Ducere’s MBA (Innovation and Leadership) takes things further—there are no traditional units, exams, or coursework. Instead, students complete three major business projects over 12–24 months, tailored to their current role or future goals. The flexible, self-paced delivery means learners can work full-time while building advanced strategic skills on the side.

Want to get your MBA while growing your business or climbing the ladder? This is one of the most flexible and applied options in Australia today.

Learn from Leaders Who’ve Been There

Ducere’s “Global Faculty” is one of its most distinctive features. More than 250 industry leaders—including CEOs, entrepreneurs, former prime ministers, Nobel laureates and UN advisers—share their personal leadership lessons via video interviews and online case studies. Names include:

• Julia Gillard (former Prime Minister of Australia)
• John Howard (former Prime Minister)
• David Copperfield (marketing specialist, not the magician!)
• Lindsay Fox (self-made billionaire and logistics mogul)

These insights help students connect theory to reality—bridging the gap between education and execution.

Study at Your Pace, Fit Around Your Life

Ducere’s courses are designed for working professionals and self-starters. Study part-time or full-time, online and at your own pace—from six months to six years. Whether you’re starting a business, juggling work and family, or aiming to accelerate your leadership skills, you’ll have the freedom to learn your way.

Backing Education with Purpose: The Ducere Foundation

Ducere also walks the talk on social impact. All profits from its fee-paying courses support the Ducere Foundation, which provides education and entrepreneurship opportunities to disadvantaged youth in Africa. Projects include the Ducere Peace Centre in Uganda and publishing initiatives that elevate young African voices.

Explore Ducere’s Most Popular Courses:

• Bachelor of Applied Entrepreneurship
• Bachelor of Applied Business (Management)
• Bachelor of Applied Business (Marketing)
• MBA (Innovation and Leadership)

Want to gain leadership skills, grow your business or make your CV stand out with real-world experience? Start with a course designed to get you work-ready, not just exam-ready.