This programme is currently under development and subject to NZQA approval - open to expression of interest.
Guided by the principle of ‘doing it for real,’ you’ll learn by creating, experimenting, and applying your ideas in authentic and dynamic business contexts.
The MBIL empowers both aspiring entrepreneurs and established professionals to become bold innovators and robust leaders.
You’ll build the skills, mindset, and confidence to drive and oversee creative change and business innovation, shaping the future – whether in launching your own ventures or leading within already established organisations.
Guided by the principle of ‘doing it for real,’ you’ll learn by creating, experimenting, and applying your ideas in authentic and dynamic business contexts.
Every element is focused on applied learning, ensuring you graduate with experience that’s directly relevant to the challenges of today’s business landscape.
From the outset, you’ll develop an agile, adaptable mindset by exploring risk, resilience, and the psychology of failure - learning to view setbacks as essential opportunities for growth. You’ll gain the tools to manage uncertainty, how to adapt to change, and you’ll be solving those complex problems creatively and assuredly.
You’ll master non-linear problem-solving, building on your resilience and risk tolerance - core traits for navigating the unpredictable realities of business and innovation.
Through experimentation and design thinking you’ll identify and validate new business, social, indigenous, or community-focused opportunities. You’ll also develop minimum viable products (MVPs) and learn how to meaningfully engage with investors and stakeholders.
Throughout the programme you’ll refine your critical business leadership skills: strategic thinking, effective communication, self-management, collaboration, and human-centred creativity. You’ll work on real projects, receive feedback from industry experts, and expand your professional network.
The capstone Innovation to Market project will see you validate your venture’s market potential and develop a professional business plan. You’ll know whether your idea is desirable, feasible and viable - a thorough assessment from three different angles.
November 2025 Intake
03/11/2025
March 2026 Intake
16/03/2026
July 2026 Intake
06/07/2026
November 2026 Intake
02/11/2026
1 Year
Three trimesters
In-person seminars with flexible distance learning
Auckland City Symonds Street Campus
Fees indicated are for 1st year of study.
All 2025 fees are subject to change and regulatory approval.
Domestic: $13,891+ $450 Student Service Levy
International: $36,000 + $450 Student Services Levy
Further study options:
Graduates of this programme may progress to doctoral studies, depending on the entry requirements of the receiving programme.
Master of Business Innovation and Leadership
NZQA Level 9 (180 Credits)
As an MBIL graduate, you’ll be ready to create sustainable businesses, become innovative leaders within large organisations, or drive social and community-focused enterprises. You’ll be primed to work across borders, lead in job creation and contribute economically, socially, and environmentally. A global citizen.
Applicants must
International applicants must
Entry at the discretion of Whitecliffe
Candidates applying for entry will be required to submit evidence that they meet the entry requirements.
An interview and portfolio are not required for entry into this programme. However, applicants may be asked to provide additional information to demonstrate their strengths, readiness, and potential for success in this programme.
The CAO and Admissions Director, or their nominees, will determine if such information is necessary and will review it to assess the applicant’s readiness and ensure appropriate support for their learning journey.
The Chief Academic Officer and Director of Admissions reserve the right to refuse entry.
Supported by world-class faculty and strong industry connections, the MBIL is your gateway to becoming a resilient, creative, and impactful business leader.
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