Master of Business Development

Program Overview

The Master of Business Development (MBusDev) at the University of Auckland equips early- to mid-career professionals with the knowledge and skills to drive business growth through innovation, product management, and strategic partnerships. Offered online with a flexible blended learning approach, the program culminates in a capstone applied project and prepares graduates for leadership roles in business development and related fields.

Program Outline

Master of Business Development (MBusDev) Extraction:

Degree Overview:

The Master of Business Development (MBusDev) at the University of Auckland is designed for early- to mid-career professionals interested in accelerating their careers in business development. This program equips students with the knowledge, expertise, and practical skills needed to drive business growth through various strategies:

• Developing new products or services
• Modifying or enhancing existing products or services
• Entering new markets
• Partnering or developing strategic alliances
The MBusDev offers two specializations:
• Innovation and Product Management (available now)
• Technology Commercialisation (launching in 2022)

Outline:

The MBusDev program consists of two options:

180-point Taught Option:

• Part 1: Perspectives on Business Development (60 points)
• Part 2: Innovation and Product Management (60 points)
• Part 3: Capstone and Applied Project (60 points)

120-point Taught Option (for eligible students):

• Part 2: Innovation and Product Management (60 points)
• Part 3: Capstone and Applied Project (60 points)

Part 1:

This section focuses on providing students with the knowledge and skills to operate effectively within an organization and its markets. Courses include:

• Managing in a Changing World (BUSDEV 711)
• Financial Management (BUSDEV 712)
• Sustainable Value Chains (BUSDEV 713)
• Managing Creativity and People (BUSDEV 714)
• Contemporary Marketing (BUSDEV 715)

Part 2:

This section focuses on the specialization of Innovation and Product Management. Courses include:

• Innovation Management and Strategy (BUSDEV 721)
• New Product Development Processes (BUSDEV 722)
• Product Management (BUSDEV 723)
• Designing for Sustainability (BUSDEV 724)

Part 3:

This section culminates in a capstone applied project in business development, delivered through an interdisciplinary team. It also includes two courses designed to build capabilities in managing oneself, teams, and collaborative projects:

• Personal and Team Leadership (BUSDEV 780)
• Managing Collaborative Projects (BUSDEV 781)
• Capstone Project (BUSDEV 782A)
• Capstone Project (BUSDEV 782B)

Assessment:

The assessment methods vary depending on the specific course, but may include a combination of:

• Assignments
• Case studies
• Examinations
• Presentations
• Group projects
• Capstone project

Teaching:

The MBusDev is offered online through Auckland Online, providing students with a flexible and interactive learning environment. The program utilizes a blended learning approach incorporating:

• Synchronous online sessions
• Asynchronous online activities
• Independent study
The program draws upon the expertise of a diverse faculty with a strong industry background, ensuring students receive relevant and practical knowledge.

Careers:

Graduates of the MBusDev program are equipped to pursue various career paths in business development, including:

• Business Development Manager
• Product Manager
• Innovation Manager
• Entrepreneur
• Consultant
The program also prepares students for leadership roles within their organizations.

Other:

• The program welcomes students from various backgrounds, including business, engineering, humanities, sciences, or technology.
• Students must have at least three years of relevant work experience.
• The program is offered in two start dates: Quarter Four (September) and Quarter Two (March).