AI in Strategic Decision-Making – Master of Business Administration

Specialisation

Build the capability to strategically integrate artificial intelligence into organisational decision making while managing governance, risk and ethical considerations.

Subject to CUAP approval

This qualification is subject to approval by the Committee on University Academic Programmes (CUAP).

Specialise in AI in Strategic Decision-Making for your Master of Business Administration at Massey

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how organisations make strategic decisions, improve performance and create competitive advantage. As AI adoption accelerates, organisations need leaders who can harness its potential while managing governance, risk and ethical considerations.

You'll develop the strategic capabilities to evaluate, govern and implement AI-enabled decision systems and autonomous AI agents within organisations. You will learn how to assess organisational readiness, integrate AI into business processes and lead AI initiatives that deliver measurable value.

As part of the qualificaiton, you will complete a real-world management project for a New Zealand organisation, applying AI strategies to solve a contemporary business challenge. Strong performance in this project enhances your employability and gives you practical experience to demonstrate in interviews.

Register your interest in the Master of Business Administration

Insights

Massey’s business qualifications are internationally recognised:

  • Top 150 globally – Shanghai Ranking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025
  • Tier One CEO Magazine
  • AACSB ranks Massey in the top 5% of business schools in the world
  • Accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA)

AMBA accreditation is recognised globally by employers as a mark of quality and excellence.

Your Massey MBA will help you to:

  • make a meaningful impact on business and society
  • think critically and lead with integrity in a global, diverse environment
  • master cross-functional and strategic decision-making
  • stay career-ready and committed to lifelong learning.

A Master of Business Administration in AI in Strategic Decision-Making is a good fit if you:

  • have at least 3 years of relevant postgraduate practical work experience
  • would like complete an MBA full-time in only 1 year in Auckland
  • are interested in developing strategic AI capabilities that enable organisations to innovate, compete and make better business decisions.

Planning information

Planning information

Studying part-time, you’ll take 180 credits over 2 years and have up to 5 years to complete your study.

This is a parts-based qualification. For progression to Part Two you must have achieved a B- grade average across the courses completed in Part One.

To complete this specialisation, you must pass 60 credits in AI in Strategic Decision Making which includes 2 specialisation courses (15 credits each) plus the Action Learning Project (30 credits).

Official regulations

To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.

You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Postgraduate Certificates.

Returning students

For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.

In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may be no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.

Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.

Courses you can enrol in

Courses you can enrol in

Core courses for the Master of Business Administration

As well as the specialisation courses listed below, this qualification has core courses that you will need to complete.

Master of Business Administration core courses

AI and Strategic Decision-Making courses

Part One Subject courses

Choose 30 credits from
Course code: 295709 AI-Enabled Decision Making 15 credits

An advanced study of the integration of artificial intelligence-enabled decision systems into complex organisations. It focuses on readiness, data strategy, ethics, risk and performance enabling leaders to translate AI insights into strategic advantage and drive responsible, evidence-based decision making at scale.

Prerequisites

Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.

295708
View full course details
Course code: 295710 AI and Autonomous Decision Systems 15 credits

An examination of how agent-based AI supports organisational decision-making through autonomous systems that enhance strategy, operations and innovation with a focus on managerial oversight, governance, risk and ethics rather than technical development. Managers learn to assess, design, and responsibly deploy agent-based AI within complex organisational decision environments.

Prerequisites

Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.

295708
View full course details

Part Two Subject courses

Choose 30 credits from
Course code: 115812 Action Learning Project 30 credits

Supervised team-based project focused on deliverable improvement of practices in an existing business or development of a new business opportunity, drawing on knowledge from multiple business disciplines.

View full course details

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

Specific requirements

This is a selected entry qualification. This means there are a number of extra requirements you must meet. 

To enter the Master of Business Administration you will:

  • have been awarded or qualified for a relevant bachelor’s degree, having achieved at least a B- grade average in the highest level courses, or equivalent
  • have completed at least 3 years of relevant postgraduate practical work experience
  • have been selected into the qualification on the basis of selection process which may include a written application, references and practical exercises.

Application closing dates

There are 3 intakes each year.

  • The first and second 2026 intakes have closed
  • Third intake application closing date
    • International students: 24 August 2026
    • Domestic students: 19 October 2026
  • First 2027 intake application closing date
    • International students: mid-December 2026
    • Domestic students: mid-February 2027

Documents you need to provide

You need to supply the following documentation with your application:

  • copies of official transcripts of all previous university and/or professional qualifications, having achieved at least a B- grade average in the highest level courses, or equivalent
  • your CV showing at least 3 years’ relevant postgraduate practical experience
  • an application statement covering the supplied questions
  • a passport-sized photo for identification purposes.

Application statement

Questions to address in your application statement:

  • Compared with other choices you considered for your studies, what made you choose Massey?
  • Why have you chosen to do an MBA at this stage in your career?
  • How will you draw on your unique skills and experiences to contribute to your cohort’s MBA experience?
  • There will be group work during your studies. Tell us about the ways you have managed to perform in groups previously.
  • The MBA will require substantial work in class and out of class. In the past, how have you managed your time to be effective?
  • What are your career plans following your MBA graduation and how will the MBA help you achieve them?

Work experience

A minimum of 3 years’ work experience is required. This ensures you can contribute meaningfully to discussions and group work. Applicants with less experience are unlikely to be accepted.

English language requirements

To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

Fees and scholarships

Fees and scholarships

Indicitive 2026 Master of Business Administration tuition fees

  • 2026 Domestic on-campus: NZ$52,300 (12 months)

  • 2026 International full-time (onshore): NZ$65,150 (12 months)

Fees include eBooks and study materials but exclude non-tuition fees, insurance and living costs.

Please note that the total fees for the qualification are indicative only, as fees can increase each year. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses. 

Student loans (StudyLink)

You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.

StudyLink

Scholarships and awards

Search our scholarships and awards

Careers and job opportunities

Careers and job opportunities

Regardless of your background, an MBA can help you progress into leadership and management roles across private, public, and non-profit sectors.

Massey's MBA builds on your existing experience, adding practical skills and strategic insight you can apply immediately, giving you a strong advantage in competitive job markets in New Zealand and internationally.

An MBA specialising in AI for Strategic Decision Making prepares you for senior leadership roles where AI, data, and analytics are shaping organisational strategy, innovation, and competitive advantage.

Massey Career Centre

The Massey Career Centre supports you during study and after graduation. Access online and in-person services to build career skills, confidence, and networks.

Career development support while you study

MBA alumni network

Stay connected. Our Massey and MBA alumni network gives you exclusive access to professional events, networking opportunities, and continued learning – helping you stay at the forefront of business leadership throughout your career.

International students

International students

New Zealand is a great place to study and live. Massey University’s reputation is supported by our international rankings, accreditations and associations. We are rated 5 star plus by the QS World University Rankings

We are known for approachable staff, small classes, and faculty who bring industry expertise to their teaching.

Graduates may be eligible for a 3-year post study work visa (conditions apply).

Important for international students on campus:

Related study option

You may also be interested in Massey's Executive Master of Business Administration.

Related study options