Backing the Bachelor of Commerce

The Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Adelaide appealed to Christopher Hughes for two key reasons: flexibility of the degree and the choice of diverse and rewarding careers graduates can pursue.

However, during his undergraduate journey, Christopher gained a lot more than just the two things that he had originally aspired to experience. In his first year of study, Christopher undertook common courses in accounting, economics, and finance. The flexibility to choose his elective subjects was a key advantage of the Adelaide Business School’s Commerce degree. It enabled Christopher to explore other specialty subjects offered by the University.

“The electives paved the way to take history, anthropology and psychology. Having a blend of subjects certainly improved the university experience, as well as having the privilege of being in passionate history lectures delivered by Gareth Pritchard” 

From tutorials, Christopher formed friendships from across the University of Adelaide’s five faculties, spending time chilling out at the old UniBar, and getting involved with student societies on campus. “Studying at the University of Adelaide allowed me to make many connections that I'm still in contact with today. It's a great time to decipher your likes and dislikes, areas of interest, and a leap pad into the big world”  

On top of his busy uni and schedule, Christopher also had to hit the books and focus on studying. From the second year onwards, Commerce students really get stuck into their chosen majors.

Marketing subjects were certainly quite interesting and enjoyable, particularly towards the end of my degreeChristopher Hughes, Bachelor of Commerce graduate

A significant part of his experience was completing the compulsory final year ‘capstone’ subject, Marketing Planning Project, learning to write up an industry report and execute a marketing plan. Christopher also completed an internship at Eynesbury Senior College where he supported marketing projects. Reporting to the Marketing Manager, Christopher gained first-hand insights into the practical applications of marketing theories while working in an office environment. 

“Being given the opportunity to use university knowledge within an internship was incredibly beneficial towards the entire learning experience at university.” 

Marketing was the initial focus for Christopher, but he developed a natural interest in organisational behaviour and dynamics and, subsequently, incorporated Management subjects to his studies. Christopher was able to complete his degree in the same amount of time, graduating with a double major in Marketing and Management. The decision to focus his studies on both areas of business ultimately resulted in a positive impact on his future career prospects.

After University, Christopher went on to secure a job with Morton Philips, an Executive Search and Recruitment company based in Adelaide, South Australia. Christopher's initial role was the Marketing & Administration Coordinator, assisting with the business operations of Morton Philips, and was then promoted to an Associate Consultant position. Christopher says that having a deep understanding of the management discipline, specifically, the knowledge of "corporate governance, communication styles and individual management styles" has helped him to excel in his role.

No two days are the same at Morton Philips, whose key services include Executive Search, Senior Executive Recruitment and Strategic Human Resources for a range of sectors including private enterprise, State and Local Government, and non-for-profit organisations. Throughout his time, Christopher has been assigned a range of tasks that required strong written and communication skills. 

“My responsibilities include writing job advertisements, briefing documents and position descriptions, conducting candidate interviews, providing shortlist recommendations to clients, conducting reference checks and contract offer negotiations” 

Christopher reflects fondly on his time studying business in the heart of Adelaide’s central business district. A broad undergraduate education pushed him outside of his comfort zone which helped Christopher to grow and develop the skills he needed to be confident on the job.

Study Marketing through the Bachelor of Commerce and Management, Digital Marketing and Communications, through the Bachelor of Business.