Such collaborations are part of a suite of targeted courses run by MBS which arm business executives and mid-career grads with the necessary skills to lead Australia’s industrial fortunes.

The academy aims to prepare journalists with skills needed to thrive in the digital age in video, data and artificial intelligence (AI). It also equips them with skills to detect and fight misinformation.

Collaboration finds the ‘sweet spot’

According to Google’s ANZ head of news partnerships, Nic Hopkins, the initiative is a great example of innovation, reflecting the partners’ “mutual goals”.

“The academy is a perfect example of that kind of partnership, bringing together expertise in technology, journalism and education,” he says. “It supports our journalists with a tailored program to delve deeper into that digital side of their craft.”

More than 600 journalists have now been through the academy, with profound results.

“We’ve heard countless stories about the way it has transformed our journalists’ work today and plans for the journalism of tomorrow,” Hopkins says.

The DNA represents a forward-thinking approach to education, in which academic rigour meets industry expertise. The partnership bridges the gap between theory and practice and ensures students are prepared for the realities of a fast-paced and ever-changing media environment.

Melbourne Business School has long been recognised for its commitment to professional development and lifelong learning. In addition to its suite of post-graduate qualifications, including its prestigious MBA programs, the school offers a range of short courses and tailored programs that address all the big shifts facing our economy and society, giving participants access to the latest global thinking to drive future success.

The graduate school is part of the University of Melbourne, Australia’s top-ranked university and a national hub for business leaders.

“Our short courses are about more than just acquiring new skills; they are about fostering a mindset of innovation and adaptability,” says Gittins. “We work closely with industry to ensure our programs are at the forefront of business thinking.”

For instance, a new generative AI short course is set to launch in early 2025 and there is a suite of other options to help managers understand emerging technologies and their opportunities and risks.

With sustainability and corporate responsibility now such important themes in business, there are courses to help new and more experienced leaders develop their knowledge and skills in these areas.

Curating courses for specific needs

Many executives are looking for skills to take their managerial expertise to the next level, and there are programs on offer at MBS to set them up for their next promotion. These include a five-day general management program, an 11-day advanced management program and a three-day CEO-ready residential program held in May and November.

“MBS’s short courses are renowned for their practical relevance and the expertise of their faculty,” says Jenny George, dean of Melbourne Business School.

“The courses are delivered in a flexible format, including online and in-person options, making them accessible to professionals with busy schedules.”

It’s often the preferred way of learning for busy executives looking to enhance their leadership skills, navigate the complexities of digital transformation and improve financial acumen. It’s a format that can be directly applied to real-world business challenges.

“Business education is about increasing your capability to fundamentally shift what you can achieve and solve complex problems,” says George. “Our short courses give everyone from first-time managers to experienced leaders the tools and confidence to make a lasting impact.”

Alongside its short courses, MBS has established centres of excellence to help leaders and their organisations respond effectively to the risks and opportunities presented by data and AI, sustainability, social purpose, Indigenous business leadership and other critical areas. For example, the MBS Centre for Sustainability in Business has a mission to educate leaders for an environmentally sustainable future.

It’s another example of MBS spearheading initiatives to ensure graduates remain at the forefront of industry trends and challenges.

To learn more, visit mbs.edu