La Trobe University has announced a sweeping strategic collaboration with OpenAI that will embed artificial intelligence across its academic programs, including the creation of Australia’s first AI-embedded MBA and the integration of Codex and AgentKit into business and engineering courses.

The partnership positions La Trobe at the forefront of AI-enabled higher education and aligns closely with Australia’s new National AI Plan, particularly its goals around scaling adoption, broadening access, and closing the regional-metro divide in digital capability.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said the collaboration accelerates the university’s “bold AI-first strategy,” ensuring students graduate with the technical and strategic expertise to lead in an AI-driven economy.

“AI is reshaping our society and economy at a breathtaking pace, and La Trobe is committed to ensuring that all of our students have the skills to adapt and lead in this rapidly changing world,” he said. “Embedding AI into courses — including our new AI MBA — will equip graduates with the ability to harness AI for innovation, productivity, and sustainable growth.”

OpenAI’s Head of International Oliver Jay called the partnership a model for how universities can transform education through AI.

“Education is one of the areas where AI has the greatest potential to drive long-term economic and social impact, and we’re thrilled to be working alongside La Trobe to unlock that opportunity at scale,” he said.

Key elements of the collaboration

• AI access for all: La Trobe will roll out ChatGPT Edu university-wide, deploying 5,000 licenses in 2026 and offering free access for all students and staff by 2027.
• AI in the curriculum: Pilot programs in 2026 will embed AI into business and engineering coursework, including the launch of the country’s first AI MBA. A full academic rollout is planned for 2027, supported by tailored AI training.
• Accelerating research: The collaboration builds on La Trobe’s AI research infrastructure — including its NVIDIA DGX H200 supercomputer and the Australian Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Medical Innovation — supporting breakthroughs in immunotherapy, med-tech, cancer vaccines, and more.
• Sector-wide leadership: La Trobe will share best practices to help drive ethical, responsible, and innovative AI adoption across Australia’s higher education sector.