A major milestone was achieved today as the Bachelor of Management – International Business Program at SBM ITB officially established a double degree partnership with the Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Melbourne.
The Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed on campus in Melbourne by Professor Paul Kofman, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Melbourne, and Professor Aurik Gustomo, Dean of SBM ITB. Professor Pepen Arifin, PhD, of the ITB Academic Senate, attended the ceremony.
Bridging Two Worlds
This partnership brings together two of the most respected names in business education. The University of Melbourne is currently ranked #1 in Australia, #19 in the world and consistently stands among the Top 50 worldwide for Business and Management (QS World University Rankings). The 2+2 pathway allows students to spend two years at ITB and two years at the University of Melbourne, graduating with degrees from both institutions. This provides students with a global perspective and a competitive edge in the international job market.
The dedicated, collaborative efforts of the teams from both SBM ITB and FBE of the University of Melbourne drove the success of this initiative. Their persistent coordination and strategic vision ensured that the rigorous academic standards of both world-class universities were met, paving the way for this formal agreement.
Looking Toward a Deeper Collaboration
In an email following the ceremony, Professor Andrea Lu expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership.
“It was a truly important and special occasion for us all,” said Prof. Lu. “After the close and constructive collaboration between our teams, we were honoured to witness our two Deans sign the first formal agreement between two outstanding business faculties. I hope this marks the beginning of a deeper and broader collaboration.”
Prof. Lu also highlighted several future initiatives, including:
- Connecting the Centre of Brain, Mind and Markets (UniMelb) with SBM ITB’s Neuro-business Lab.
- Exploring LPDP Split Masters and the new Garuda Scholarship schemes.
- Building organic research collaborations between PhD students and faculty members.
Immediate Opportunities for Students
With the signing now complete, both universities are swiftly promoting the pathway to prospective students and their parents. This agreement aligns with the Indonesian government’s new scholarship initiatives, further easing the path for Indonesia’s brightest minds to gain a world-class education in Melbourne.
This partnership solidifies SBM ITB’s position as a leading global business school and marks the start of a vibrant joint alumni community between Indonesia and Australia.
