UNSW offers a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) program with an “Integrated First Year” (IFY) structure. This structure provides a comprehensive foundation in business and covers a variety of core subjects essential for all BCom students such as COMM1100, COMM1140, COMM1170 and many more. The aim is to give a broad overview of key business areas such as accounting, finance, marketing and management which is essential for students to make informed decisions about their majors in subsequent years.
Specific courses within the Integrated First Year program typically include introductions to Accounting, Business Law, Economics, Statistics for Business, Management, Organisation and Marketing Fundamentals. The IFY subjects are designed to cover the fundamentals of each field and are often complemented by courses focused on developing essential business skills such as communication, critical thinking and problem-solving. It is important to note that the exact courses and their content may vary from year to year and therefore consulting the latest UNSW course catalogue or going on the UNSW website is advisable for the most current information.
Business Management
“Looking at what goes on inside an individual organisation”
Financial Management (COMM1140): This course explores the role of accounting in society and how it affects business decisions. Students will learn about the reporting and use of financial information and the ethical and social implications of accounting practices.
(prerequisite for COMM1170 and COMM1180)
Organisational Resources (COMM1170): This course provides an introduction to organisational management. You will explore how key resources - people, technology and capital are used to achieve a competitive advantage and drive operational excellence.
Value Creation (COMM1180): This course provides an introduction to financial management concepts and techniques. Students will learn about financial statements, time value of money, risk and return, capital budgeting, and financial planning.
Data, Insights and Decisions (COMM1190): This course introduces students to statistical methods used in business decision-making. Students will learn about probability theory, hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and time series analysis.
Business Ecosystem
“Considering the broader environment in which an organisation operates”
Business Decision Making (COMM1100): This course is to equip students with a thorough comprehension of decision-making from a managerial standpoint. Students will gain insights into economic theories, legal concepts, and corporate sustainability principles throughout the course.
(prerequisite for COMM1150)
Global Business Environments (COMM1150): This course provides an introduction to concepts and frameworks of global business. Students will learn about the challenges of operating in different regions, how to develop strategies for sustainable business practices, and how to capitalise on opportunities operating in different markets.
Skills and Capabilities
“Equipping you with a suite of skills and capabilities”
myBCom Blueprint (COMM0999): This course offers an overview of business communication skills. It equips students with the ability to craft impactful business documents, deliver presentations, and communicate efficiently within a business setting. Link
Evidenced-Based Problem Solving (COMM1110): This course highlights the crucial role of problem-solving skills for professionals in the business realm. Students will gain insights into the value of evidence and acquire the skills to locate and utilise it effectively.
(prerequisite for COMM1190)
Collaboration and Innovation in Business (COMM1120): This hands-on course is centred around projects. Students will explore the areas of creative and design thinking. The focus is on equipping students with the skills to generate, cultivate, and assess innovative solutions for intricate social and business challenges.